MLK Program Urges Reconciliation

A number of people gathered on the Monticello Square Monday to commemorate the birthday of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

After the service on the Square the group walked down East Green Street and went to St. John C.M. E. Church on Key St. From there, the marchers went to Monticello Presbyterian Church, and from there they moved on to Springfield Baptist Church.
Other marchers joined in along the way.

An ecumenical interfaith celebration was held at noon at St. James A.M.E. Church.
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The theme for the day’s festivities was “Celebrating Our Diversity for Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.”

The program on the Square was opened by the Rev. Spencer Booker who led the group in singing the Battle Hymn of the Republic. He then welcomed all and asked a prayer.

The Revs. Greg Dunlop and Jimmy Smith read a challenge to those gathered entitled “call to reconciliation.”

When the group convened at St. James, there were songs of praise, recognition of the ideals of Dr. King, and a keynote address by Jacqueline Bell Smith, Monticello City Councilwoman.

The Rev. Gus Cole and Ulysses Norris received the 2004 MLK humanitarian award for their work with Octoberblitz and other community projects.

After the service, the movie, “Selma, Lord, Selma,” was shown.