by Elizabeth Connolly
Hometown Weekly Reporter
Despite temperatures that hovered around freezing, a large group gathered on the town common on Monday, January 15th. They were there to honor and celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., on what would have been his 95th birthday. Sadly, the civil rights activist was assassinated when he was only 39 years old, leaving his dream realized but unfulfilled, though paving the way for others to pick up what he started.
Lois Czachorowski of the Walpole Peace and Justice Group led the outdoor portion of the observance. Each bundled attendee was given a small candle that they could light from a neighbor’s flame. After a short welcome, everyone was invited to sing a few songs that contained themes of love, peace, and empowerment. A candlelit walk over to the United Church concluded that portion of the remembrance.
Inside the Church, everyone was greeted warmly by Philip Czachorowski, also of the Walpole Peace and Justice Group. The beautiful observance was filled with prayers, songs, reflections, and a special address from keynote speaker Shantae Holmes, Executive Director of Be Inclusive. “Dr. King is responsible for so many firsts because people like me were inspired by his messages and his teachings. So many more people dream, and then put their hearts and souls into action. Actions that will benefit the lives of everyone, because the beloved community includes all,” Holmes told the attentive crowd.
Other notable speakers included Reverend Jean Pierre Aubin and Deacon Rey Spadoni of Walpole Catholic, The Reverend Christen H. Mills from Epiphany Parish, and Adrienne Williams, Founding member of UU Mass Action Network. Mr. Czachorowski also shared a reflection with the audience. Soloist Carla Barnes sang both “Lift Every Voice and Sing” and “O Lord My God (How Great Thou Art)”.
This event was sponsored by Walpole Peace and Justice Group, Be Inclusive, United Church in Walpole, Walpole Catholic, Epiphany Parish, Union Congregational Church, Turning Point Recovery Center, Walpole Freedom Team, and Action Together Walpole.
