The United Campus Ministries/Interfaith Council, and the Favrot Student Union Board hosted the Campus Candlelight Vesper Monday to honor and commemorate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Grambling’s students, alumni, faculty, staff, community residents and friends gathered in the quadrangle to participate in the candlelight processional to the Black and Gold room while jubilantly singing “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around” led by Rev. Connie Breaux, Director of United Campus Ministries.
Curtis Maxey, co-chair of the Traditions committee in FSUB fondly thought that this program is much needed as a liaison between GSU and the community. “The purpose of the vesper is to unite the campus on Martin Luther King Day, and show a unity among Blacks on campus,” said Maxey. “This being a historic time in Black history with the inauguration of President Obama, it shows us that as a race we have come far. Over four decades ago our people never saw this ever happening, but throughout the years the strength within the Black community has grown depicting that anything is possible.
The campus and community observance opened with the hymn “We’ve Come This Far by Faith” which was very befitting when one considers the struggles of ancestors, and how they have laid the foundation that has been built upon.
Entertainment that honored Dr. King was performed through poetry by Lyrical Quest, and Dr. Jimmy McJamerson, retired associate professor of the history department; as well as a musical selection by Abriyanna Hill.
Rev. Joseph L. Henderson Sr., pastor of Mt. Calvary B.C. in Arcadia, delivered the message of hope that was centered on the question ‘what does it takes to take a stand?’ Rev. Henderson went on to say within his message that if you let God use you in life with all of your gifts and talents, you will be prosperous and guaranteed to make a difference. Therefore, everything in this world is not given for free; “all handouts are handicaps.”
Rev. Breaux was extremely excited and passionate about this program , because she has been a part of the struggle throughout history. “I think the program went extremely well,” said Rev. Breaux. “It was different because members of our Grambling community were in D.C., but the people that came out wanted to be here to grasp the powerful words and traditions, and feel the power of the challenges that we have overcome.”
She added that by this being a historic time with the swearing in of our second-term African-American president, this candlelight vesper “was a finishing touch that completed this day.”