01/18/2026
If we are to have peace on earth, our loyalties must become ecumenical rather than sectional. Our loyalties must transcend our race, our tribe, our class, and our nation; and this means we must develop a world perspective.” - From Dr. King’s Christmas Sermon, Atlanta, Georgia, 1967
You are warmly invited to the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Ecumenical Service—a beloved community tradition that brings together people from all faiths, backgrounds, and walks of life. This year’s theme, “Transcending Divisions by Standing Up for Freedom, Justice, Equality and Democracy,” calls us to reflect on Dr. King’s enduring message and to continue building the “beloved community” through compassion, spiritual inclusivity, and shared humanity.
Hosted by the King Coalition in partnership with diverse faith leaders, this service uplifts Dr. King’s vision of justice and unity through music, prayer, reflection, and interfaith dialogue. The program will also feature music by the MLK Community Choir-led by Leotha and Tamera Stanley and an instrumental selection by Dr. Lawren Brianna Ware, Violinist.
The distinguished faith leaders who will participate in the program this evening include:
Ms. Sadat Abiri, Ease-Of Mind Mental Health Solutions
Rev. Dr. Marcus Allen, Mt. Zion Baptist Church
Dr. Josh Garoon, Beth Israel Center
Rev. David A. Hart, Esq., Sherman Avenue Methodist Church
Rev. Nina Pryor Stanford, SS Morris AME Church
Rev. Tim Schaefer, First Baptist Church
The Rev. Marcio Sierra, Jr., Lighthouse Church and School
Parking Note: The church’s parking lot is located behind the building on Shepard Terrace. Overflow parking is available along Franklin Street and Shepard Terrace. Additional parking is available on nearby streets in the neighborhood. Entry into the main auditorium of the church can be done from the rear (Shepard Terrace) and front (North Franklin Ave.).
