Memorization was at its best as the Committee on Social Action of Third Street Bethel AME Church in Richmond, Virginia, presented another spectacular evening of talented youth and young adults during dinner in the fellowship hall on February 16, 2019, under the leadership of Pastor Reuben J. Boyd. The motto is “We are the Church that Goes Beyond Our Four Walls to Impact the World.” The program was comprised of our church’s youth as well as those from the surrounding neighborhood. The young adults and millennials of our church rendered stellar performances of original works and poetry readings. They served as great role models for the children.
Throughout the preparation for the program, our youth were given specific instructions on what was expected of them and they met them. They were expected to memorize poetry and before the performance to offer their name. After they finished, they were required to take a bow. Several young men involved in the Mentorship Program, created by our pastor and directed by Jonathan Bennett and Joel Lomnick, were empowered as they ascended the stage and recited their historical rap and spoken word presentations.
Our mime team, under the leadership of Denise Bennett, began when they were toddlers in the church. Now, as young men, they perform with pride and confidence. As the older ones graduate, others come. Two young ladies, who came to our church through Sunday School under the leadership of Joann Bush, performed for the first time. Their self-esteem was lifted and we could see first-time smiles on their faces.
Third Street is blessed to have a youth handbell choir under the leadership of Sandra Griffin and Sylvia Haliburton. They learn discipline, how to read music, and to focus. We also have an adult handbell choir under the leadership of Angela Moss. One of our young girls, Liliana Razor, surprised us with a solo on the violin. The evening concluded with a large group ballet performance by our invited guests, the City Dance Theatre.
The Youth and Young Adults “In Concert” did exactly what the Committee on Social Action intended them to do. They lifted our children up, built self-esteem, instilled confidence by giving them a platform to show their talents and feel valued. When we lift our children up, society is the victor.
