In commemoration of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Geneva is hosting a week-long celebration of speakers, discussion and entertainment which focus on the foundations of King’s work for civil rights. The first event of the week, a concert performed by the Wilberforce University Choir, took place on Monday night in Skye Lounge.
The choir from Wilberforce, a university located in western Ohio, traveled four hours to sing for a full house packed into Skye Lounge. Under the direction of Mr. Jeremy Winston, and accompanied by Dr. Everett Jones, III, they entertained the audience with a variety of classical, jazz and spiritual selections. The concert began with the piece, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” the African American national anthem that honors the struggle of African Americans throughout the history of the United States. They continued their performance with gospel and spiritual pieces, leaving Skye Lounge resonating with their soulful and powerful voices.
Another highlight of the evening included a piece entitled, “If I Can Help Somebody.” The words of this selection were taken from a powerful sermon given by King, instructing listeners to seek justice, commitment, and truth. Overall, the choir’s performance reminded the audience of the history of the human condition, as well as the effect of one on the lives of others.
The activities celebrating King continue throughout this week. During chapel at 10:10 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 23 in Metheny Fieldhouse, Rev. Rock Dillaman will speak on unity, taking his topic from Psalm 133. Rev. Dillaman is the senior pastor at Allegheny Center Alliance Church, where he has served since 1984.
That evening, there will be a showing of the film Amazing Grace (2006). Starring Ioan Gruffudd, Amazing Grace tells the inspiring story of William Wilberforce, an abolitionist in 18th century Britain who used his position in the British parliament to fight, and eventually bring an end to, the British slave trade. The film will begin at 8:00 p.m. in the John White Chapel.
The week’s events will conclude on Friday, Jan. 25 with a discussion panel on the topic of the status of Dr. King’s dream. Dr. Dave Guthrie, academic dean, will moderate the discussion, asking a panel of three faculty and three students questions related to the topic. The discussion panel will be held in Skye Lounge at 10:10 a.m.
Geneva College is a comprehensive Christian college of the arts, sciences and professional studies. Founded in the tradition of the Reformed Christian faith, Geneva prepares students to serve Christ in all areas of society: work, family and the church. Geneva is a founding member of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU).
As a College of Distinction, Geneva is nationally recognized for providing outstanding preparation that is highly valued by graduate schools and employers.
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