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“Honoring the Life and Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.” was held at the First United Methodist Church (FUMC) in Franklin Sunday. Sponsored by the Macon County Human Relations Council, the event featured music, guest speakers and youth participation.
Rev. David Beam made opening remarks offering a memorial presentation for Andrew Ray, former member of FUMC. Town of Franklin Mayor Joe Collins greeted the congregation. William G. Crawford Jr. led the litany for Martin Luther King Jr. with responsive reading from the congregants.
Macon County Youth reviewed the Six Principles of Non-Violence:
1. Nonviolence is a way of life for courageous people.
2. Nonviolence seeks to win friendship and understanding.
3. Nonviolence seeks to defeat injustice, not people.
4. Nonviolence holds that voluntary suffering can educate and transform.
5. Nonviolence chooses love instead of hate.
6. Nonviolence believes that the universe is on the side of justice.
Mozart Moliere read King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, delivered by King in 1963 from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during a march in Washington.
Gary Shields introduced guest speaker Shirley Parks who is the principal of East Franklin Elementary School.
Music was provided by Mary Pittman, organist of FUMC, and Elizabeth Powell and the House of Prayer Band. The congregation was invited to sing along with songs such as “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” “We Shall Overcome,” and “America the Beautiful.”
