Diverse religions came together to remember Martin Luther King in N. Nevada
The 30th Annual Interfaith Community Memorial Service was held for civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., at Unitarian-Universalist Fellowship of Northern Nevada (UUFNN) in Reno on January 17, stressing “The Power of Unity”.
Various religious and other leaders spoke on the life-legacy-message of Dr. King on the occasion, while coming together in unity and showcasing working together and enriching lives through interfaith experience.
Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, who delivered invocation from ancient Sanskrit scriptures on the occasion, stated that Dr. King and Mahatma Gandhi shared a common vision on fighting injustice using non-violent resistance.
Patricia Y. Gallimore, President of Reno-Sparks branch of National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, was the keynote speaker. Others who spoke at the Service included UUFNN Senior Minister Neal Anderson, Ryan J. Earl of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Reverend Gary Buchanan of the International Community of Christ (ICC), civil rights activist Eddie Scott, Mary Cooper of Northern Nevada Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Committee, performance artist Jim Eaglesmith and community leader Bert Ramos. Reverend Mother Rebecca Willis of ICC read the benediction.
Musical Selections were delivered by The Power of Love (TPOL) directed by Leon Williams Smith and Second Baptist Church Choir; while Prelude “MLK” was performed by UUFNN Choir and Postlude by TPOL. Congregational hymn “Lift Every Voice and Sing” and a video-tribute presented to Dr. King also formed part of the Service.
Reverend Onie Cooper Humanitarian Awards were presented on the occasion to Eddie Scott and We Care About Kids Nevada.