On this year’s King Holiday, Monday, January 18, 2010, the Ministry of Social Concern at Harlem’s historic Abyssinian Baptist Church, will again celebrate the work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in its “Non-Violence As A Means to Make A Difference” Youth Program.
The 12th annual free event, to take place 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM in the Vestry of the 201 year old church, will feature a keynote address by educator/social activist, Ras Baraka, (current Principal of Central High School in Newark, NJ); and inspirational presentations from Harlem Children’s Zone Peacemakers and Impact Repertory Theatre. Doors open 9:30 AM, with a continental breakfast. Lunch will also be served. Abyssinian is located at 132 Odell Clark Place (West 138th Street, between Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Blvd. & Lenox Avenue).
This year’s forum focuses on the third of Dr. King’s Six Principles of Non-Violence, “Non-Violence Seeks to Defeat Injustice, Not People.” In addition to the keynote and other presenters, an interactive youth discussion on methods young people can employ to inspire positive change in others will be held with Blue Nile Passage, Inc.’s Executive Director, Elder Clifford Simmons.
The mission of the Ministry of Christian Social Concern is to convene today’s expert leaders and thinkers for the purpose of addressing and heightening awareness around socio-political issues that impact our community locally, nationally and abroad.
The Abyssinian Baptist Church was founded in 1808 by free African Americans and Ethiopian merchants who refused to accept racial discrimination in God’s house. Today, Abyssinian is acclaimed as the oldest African American Baptist church in New York State, and one of the most prominent faith institutions in America. For over 200 years, the church has been led by such esteemed ministers as Reverend Adam Clayton Powell, Sr., Congressman Reverend Adam Clayton Powell, Jr., Dr. Samuel DeWitt Proctor and currently, Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III. Renowned as an iconic champion for social justice and positive change, Abyssinian maintains its mission to rebuild Harlem through advancing spiritual growth, as well as economic and community development and empowerment. Visit here for more information.
Source: Abyssinian Baptist Church
