Pastor Kelvin Sauls opened Holman United Methodist Church’s annual prayer breakfast on April 29 with a strong message highlighting the anniversary of the L.A. civil unrest.
“Our purpose is to celebrate the power of prayer, and to come together to remember what happened 25 years ago,” declared Sauls, referring to the uprising that occurred on April 29, 1992 when citizens erupted in anger following the acquittal of the LAPD officers who viciously beat Rodney King.
“We hope you will be inspired, excited and allow yourself to be and become what God has called you to do. Friend-raising and faith-raising are really key for us at Holman,” he said.
Reflections on the uprising were sprinkled throughout the program as Sauls asked the 300+ attendees, “Where were you on that date? Take a moment to discuss your answers with the people at your table.”
In addition to sharing memories, he invited the audience to cite their vision for South L.A. Among the responses were education, jobs, self-reliance, building relationships and access to financial capital.
Prayer was the main focus of the event and AME Bishop Frank Madison Reid III was scheduled to speak on the topic. Illness prevented him from travelling from his home in Baltimore, however, his wife, Episcopal Supervisor Marlaa Hall Reid, proved to be a worthy replacement.
With the Rev. Judi Wortham-Sauls, Holman first lady and breakfast chair, introducing her as “a second-generation preacher, a woman of God, a teacher in her own right,” Hall Reid delivered an inspiring speech entitled, “Why We Must Pray.”
“Prayer is essential in the life of the believer. Prayer is the conversation, the connection between humanity and God…. It is the spiritual link between earth and heaven,” she insisted.
Emphasizing the power of prayer, Hall Reid said, “It’s a stress-eliminator, a weapon in your arsenal for warfare. It can turn around a bad marriage. It can turn around a confused child. It will keep you in perfect peace.”
She concluded with encouraging everyone to pray daily, and not only “when you are backed up against the wall.”
Areva Martin, a noted attorney and national autism advocate, served as emcee of the event. The Holman Praise Team, vocalist Greg Walker and saxophonist Keschia Potter also performed. G’s Catering provided the breakfast.
Holman UMC is located at 3320 West Adams Blvd., in Los Angeles. For information, call (323) 731-7285.
