Rev. Canon Bruce A. Jackson
Rev. James C. Rhodenhiser
Arlene Banfield
The Just Folks Association hosted a celebration of the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on his birthday (Jan. 15) with the theme “Walk in His Footsteps.” The welcome and opening prayer were offered by President Phylice Walton.
Approximately 120 guests attended the program featuring two awesome guest speakers: Rev. James C. Rhodenhiser, Rector of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Litchfield Park and Rev. Canon Bruce A. Jackson, Interim Rector at Good Shepherd of the Hills Episcopal Church in Cave Creek. Both delivered inspiring messages, invoking the hope and dream of Dr. King.
Guest soloist Dr. Victoria M. Miles of Fort Worth, Texas, led the audience in singing “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” and later in the program, gave an inspiring rendition of “If I Can Help Somebody.” Four students from local schools spoke of the impact that MLK’s legacy has had on their young lives: London Moore (ASU Prep-Home School), Bella Ray (Sunrise High School), Emma Rhinehart (Zuni Hills), and Zaiya Walton (Great Hearts Academy).
Vice President Claude Dixon thanked the guests and audience, after which the program concluded with the traditional and uplifting “We Shall Overcome.”
A special ‘thank you’ to the parents for allowing the students’ participation, and to Mrs. Jacqueline Fisher, teacher in the Peoria School District, for her assistance in selecting the student speakers.