Bethlehem Churches Unite for MLK Day Celebration

Kids pressed buttons scattered across the floor at Moravian University's Foy Hall, each one sharing the story of a different civil rights hero. The interactive wax museum was just one part of an interfaith celebration that brought Bethlehem's diverse faith communities together to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy.

Children from Second Baptist Church spent weeks preparing their presentations, studying the lives of civil rights leaders and practicing their parts. Their dedication paid off as they taught attendees about the heroes who fought for equality and justice.

Pastor Paul Patrick helped organize the event alongside leaders from Jewish, Christian, and Moravian congregations. "Unity is everything, especially in our community, especially in the climate that we're in and society right now," he said.

Rabbi Michael Singer watched the young presenters with pride. Seeing children take ownership of civil rights history and recognize their role in continuing that work filled him with hope for the future.

The celebration featured singing and speeches from multiple faith leaders, including Pastor Janel Rice from Central Moravian Church. She emphasized how Dr. King's influence extended far beyond the Christian community, inspiring interfaith movements across the country and around the world.

The Ripple Effect

Events like this one demonstrate how Dr. King's dream of unity continues to inspire new generations. When diverse faith communities gather to celebrate shared values, they create powerful examples for young people about what's possible when we focus on what unites us rather than what divides us.

The interfaith approach shows children that working together across differences isn't just idealistic. It's practical, joyful, and necessary for building the kind of communities where everyone can thrive.

Pastor Patrick's hope for attendees was simple but powerful: "I'm hoping they take away, my biggest thing is unity. For us to come together in unity." In a world that often emphasizes division, choosing to celebrate together becomes its own form of progress.

The children who portrayed civil rights heroes aren't just learning history—they're living it by participating in the kind of interfaith cooperation that Dr. King championed throughout his life.