The congregations of Holman United Methodist Church and McCarty Memorial Christian Church united to observe Martin Luther King, Jr./Human Relations Day on Sunday, Jan. 19.
Since the West Adams ministries, led by Pastor Victor Cyrus-Franklin and Pastor Eddie Anderson, respectively, boast long histories of advocating for social justice issues, the two churches collaborated on recognizing the renowned civil rights leader along with highlighting the importance of treating others with dignity and respect.
The combined worship included music by Holman’s Jubilant Voices and McCarty Memorial’s Praise Team. Among the congregants enjoying the selections was Assemblywoman Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood), former L.A. Councilman Mark Ridley-Thomas and his wife, Avis, and Pastor William D. Smart, president/CEO of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference of Southern California.
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Worship participants included the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Oliver, Holman associate pastor; Melida Skeete Smiith, Holman choir director; and Shirley Ann Harris, liturgist.
Following an introduction by Cyrus-Franklin, Anderson delivered Christ-centered, thought-provoking sermons at both services. At the 11 a.m. worship, his topic was “From Here to There” based on 2 Corinthians 13:14-15.
In his message, Anderson acknowledged that “we have difficult days ahead” and every member of the body of Christ is needed to “help us build back better.”
Responding to people who wonder if they are qualified to serve, he declared, “God qualifies you by Jesus’ act on Calvary. The grace of God says you’re worthy to serve in this present age by the love of the Holy Spirit and the sweet communion of the Holy Spirit will get us from here to there.”
Anderson added, “The Holy Spirit doesn’t discriminate but elevates. We must take time to fellowship to get from here to there and to make change. The Holy Spirit will help us to build back better!”
