I spent the morning participating in the ninth annual MLK Day of Service – #MLKTCT – organized by Tarrant Churches Together. As a first timer, I was encouraged by the diversity of faith communities represented, impressed by the breadth of service opportunities, and inspired to continue Dr. King’s work in and beyond my community.
Worship
Baker Chapel AME was filled to capacity for the hour long service that set the tone for the day while also inviting those present to capture or recapture the vision of The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. While I appreciated the many words said, prayers offered, and Scriptures read by the mayor, TCT Executive Director and board members, and clergy, I was moved by the congregational singing that seemed to make more real God’s realm on earth while also calling those of us who were raising our voices to live out our singing in and beyond this day of service. I captured a minute of the sending song, and uploaded it to YouTube.
Service
After worship participants headed out to serve at dozens of area ministries, houses of worship, and non-profit organizations. My wife and I served at Community Crossroads Outreach Center – a ministry of First Presbyterian Church of Fort Worth. In addition to receiving an informative tour of their current campus and conversation about a planned expansion, we helped sort food pantry donations and listened to the stories of some of the many neighbors visiting the center for lunch or to receive dental care.
So What?
All across the country today people are participating in the MLK Day of Service – #MLKDaay – in their communities. As a “day on, not a day off,” this experience is “intended to empower individuals, strengthen communities, bridge barriers, create solutions to social problems, and move us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a Beloved Community.”
- Share a story of your participation in the MLK Day of Service or another way in which you have recently been involved in moving us a little closer to Dr. King’s vision of a Beloved Community.
- Share something Martin Luther King, Jr. said or wrote that has been especially meaningful to you. Feel free to explain how these words have informed the way you live.