By Janice Nichols
To commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Mount Moriah African Methodist Episcopal Church in Rocky Point, North Carolina, launched the first MLK March in Rocky Point. The event encompassed ecumenical togetherness, the march, health and wellness awareness, voter registration initiative, and On Time Ministries. These activities came to fruition under the leadership of the Rev. Dewey Farmer, Pastor of Mount Moriah AME. Church and Rev. Charles Davis, Assistant Pastor.
Part of the event emphasized ecumenical togetherness, which bridges communities as a union. Planners invited many denominations to participate, and they responded with interest and enthusiasm – a sign of hope for the Christian Church.
Realizing nothing can materialize successfully without seeking God’s guidance and intervention, Rev. Charles Davis, founder and administrator of On Time Ministries, fervently prayed for a successful day. Rev. Farmer and Evangelist Sherman Cooper also prayed, read scripture, and set the tone for a God-directed event.
The MLK March began and reflected the enormous strides and accomplishments of Dr. King. Joy and excitement were evident as the marchers trekked their journey and returned to the church. Participants listened intently as John Batts so eloquently dramatized “I Have a Dream,” one of Dr. King’s commemorative addresses. John’s voice, actions, and emotions kept the audience focused throughout his delivery. He reminded us that we are still seeking justice, equality, and freedom. So, it is time to get up, speak up, and get into some good trouble. What a magnificent performance!
The day continued with emphasis on our health. The Health and Wellness Committee distributed KN95 Protective Masks, Sanitect Hand Sanitizer, and sign-up information about the upcoming Blood Drive. In addition, some attendees signed up to give blood and serve as greeters. Nadine Jordan, Chairperson, worked tirelessly throughout the event.
In addition, participants focused on voting rights and voter education. Constant headlines remind us of voter suppression throughout the United States. We made a concerted effort to register as many new voters as possible and distributed voter guides. Voter registration will continue to be a focused effort. Adding to the success of the day was the presence of On Time Ministries. Their informational brochures explained their goals and accomplishments to date. A major part of the brochure included “Steps to Christian Discipleship.” We are extremely grateful for their participation and the leadership of our technicians, John Stringfield and Janice Nichols, for posting the MLK events on Facebook and to reporters from Spectrum and WWAY TV-3, who televised the event.
The event culminated with prayer and a delicious fish dinner. We thank God for all that transpired.
