September 23, 2025
City Council
DATE: September 23, 2025
TO: Mayor Martinez and Members of the City Council
FROM:
Councilmember Jamelia Brown
Subject:
Proclamation Honoring Bishop Tom H. Watson and
Mother Hazel Watson of Gloryland Apostolic Cathedral for Over 50 Years of Service
FINANCIAL IMPACT: None.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
None.
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
This proclamation honors Bishop Tom H. Watson and
Mother Hazel Watson of Gloryland Apostolic Cathedral,
recognizing more than five decades of distinguished
service, spiritual leadership, and enduring contributions to the Richmond community.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
PROCLAMATION honoring Bishop Tom H. Watson and
Mother Hazel Watson of Gloryland Apostolic Cathedral
for over 50 years of ministry and community service –
Councilmember Jamelia Brown (510-620-6910).
DISCUSSION:
This proclamation recognizes and honors Bishop Tom H. Watson and Mother Hazel Watson, who have faithfully served the Bay Area for over 50 years and the City of AGENDA
REPORT
September 23, 2025
Richmond for more than 40 years. As spiritual leaders of Gloryland Apostolic Cathedral, they have been a source of strength, inspiration, and service—uplifting families, fostering faith, and initiating programs that embody their guiding question: “What can we do to serve others?”
Through initiatives such as breakfast programs for the unhoused, distributing over 100 bicycles to Richmond children at Christmas, canned good drives for families in need, and countless other acts of kindness, the Watsons continue to leave an indelible mark on Richmond’s spiritual and social fabric.
Beyond their community ministry, Bishop and First Lady Watson built their legacy through family and faith, raising six children and guiding multiple generations of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Their devotion to God, their church, and their city reflects a lifelong commitment to service and leadership.
The City of Richmond is proud to recognize, honor, and celebrate Bishop Tom H.
Watson and Mother Hazel Watson for their unwavering dedication and significant contributions to our community.
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – Proclamation Honoring Bishop Tom H. Watson and Mother Hazel Watson