On Tuesday, Jan. 28, Family Life Missionary Baptist Church held a memorial service for the late 39th President Jimmy Carter who passed away in December at the age of 100.
The Fayetteville community, adults, and kids alike came out to honor Carter’s life and legacy with worship and praise. Family Life curated this event as a commemorative service celebrating the life and legacy of President Carter, focusing on his achievements as the Governor of Georgia, his four-year presidency, and his humanitarian work in his post-presidency.
“A Legacy of Compassion and Justice,” was a service that included heartfelt tributes highlighting his contributions to the Civil Rights Movement and global humanitarian efforts. There were scripture readings and reflections on his life of service. The Family Life music ministry provided inspiring music to uplift and unite the community as they honored his memory.
The event featured a variety of speakers, including clergy and church members who all viewed Carter’s legacy in high regard.
The event also featured performances for the Young Warriors Band, the Family Life Music Ministry (featuring God’s Gurls, the all-female band), Rev. Darien Brooks as the vocalist warrior, Rev. Taj B. delivering gospel rap, and the Heavenly HORNS.
Additionally, the service included video presentations such as “Growing Up”, where the video put the viewer in the shoes of being born during the time Carter was born. Other presentations included “Great Quotes” from President Carter and “End Racism”.
Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice
Trunae A. Green, a deaconess and music director at Family Life Missionary Baptist, said President Carter’s remarkable journey of leadership, service, and unwavering commitment to humanity has left an indelible mark on the nation and the world, from his integrity as a public servant to his enduring advocacy for peace, justice, and human dignity.
“President Jimmy Carter has exemplified what it means to lead with moral courage and a compassionate heart,” she said. “Today, we reflect on his many achievements, his dedication to promoting democracy and human rights, his tireless efforts to combat poverty and disease, and his lifelong work through the Carter Center to advance peace and build hope in communities near and far.”
This commemorative service, she says, is a moment to honor not just a president, but a human humanitarian whose integrity and vision inspired society to be better citizens of the world
“As we celebrate his life and legacy, let us also commit to caring for the values he so steadfastly upheld. Let us now turn our hearts to this occasion with gratitude and respect as we remember and honor a truly remarkable man,” she said.
Pastor Bishop Dr. A.T. Lands said everyone who has occupied the big seat in the White House, came from many backgrounds, but Carter brought something special, Hope.
“President Carter brought so much hope, and it was during perilous times when he was president. They charged him with a lot of things that I don’t think was his fault as it relates to the economy, but he held fast,” he said. “He kept his integrity, and I think we can learn a lot, not just this church, but this local community and this country.
Many of the evening’s speakers said Carter’s leadership in the United States exemplifies a man of deep faith and unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and peace.
“Through his leadership in the U.S. and abroad, President Carter worked tirelessly to improve the plight of oppressed people and communities, including Black Americans, and advocated for a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect,” Lands said.
To close out the night, there was also a discussion of Carter’s global health initiatives, which highlighted his achievements, and humanitarian efforts including The Carter Center.
