Michael C. Murphy (Michigan politician)

Michael C. Murphy was the founder and pastor of St. Stephen’s Community United Church of Christ in Lansing, Michigan and a former member of the Michigan House of Representatives.[1]

The Honorable Rev. Dr.

Michael C. Murphy
Member of the Michigan House of Representatives
from the 68th district
69th District (2001-2002)
In office
January 1, 2001 – December 31, 2006
Preceded byLynne Martinez
Succeeded byJoan Bauer
Personal details
Born(1952-06-21)June 21, 1952
Chicago, Illinois
DiedDecember 28, 2014(2014-12-28) (aged 62)
Washington, D.C.
Political partyDemocratic
Alma materChicago Theological Seminary (D. Min., M. Div.)
Michigan State University (M.A.)
DePaul University (B.A.)
OccupationPastor, politician

Murphy graduated from DePaul University with a bachelor's degree, from Michigan State University with a master's degree in counseling, and from Chicago Theological Seminary with both a master's degree in divinity and a doctorate of ministry. Ordained by the African Methodist Episcopal Church in 1984, Murphy held dual standing with that church and the United Church of Christ. He founded St. Stephen's in 1987 and served there until being called to the People's Congregational United Church of Christ in early 2009 where he was senior minister.[2]

Murphy's political involvement began in 1997 when he was elected to the Lansing City Council. He served as president in 1999 and 2000. He chaired the public safety committee, served on the Michigan Municipal League's Legislative and Urban Affairs Committee, and the Mayor's Blue Ribbon Committee on Downtown Revitalization.[3] An active participant in politics even before his election to the House, Murphy was one of 100 ministers to visit the White House in advance of the 2000 election to discuss getting out the vote.[4]

Murphy was elected to the House in 2000, succeeding Lynne Martinez, to represent the majority of the City of Lansing. He served until 2006 when term limits precluded him from seeking re-election.[5]

Murphy died on December 28, 2014 in Washington, D.C., aged 62.

References
  1. Palmer, Ken (28 December 2014). "Friends mourn passing of Rev. Michael Murphy". The Lansing State Journal.
  2. The New Citizens Press: Most Interesting and Influential 2005: Michael C. Murphy
  3. 2005-2006 Michigan Manual: State Representative Michael C. Murphy
  4. Wilgoren, Jodi (6 November 2000). "Just Before Election, Politics and Religion Mix Easily at a Michigan Church". The New York Times.
  5. House Resolution 327 (2006): A resolution of tribute for the Honorable Michael C. Murphy
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