There is a church in Atlanta that has been standing for 79 years. Today, it serves as one of the most visited tourist attractions in the nation. This church is known as Ebenezer Baptist Church, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a member.
King was baptized there, he sang in the choir and preached his first sermon there. However, the funds have fallen short and construction has ceased at this sanctuary. Despite how things are going on around the nation though, it’s reassuring to know that there are efforts to preserve some things that African-Americans hold dear.
According to blackamericaweb.com, nationally syndicated radio personality Russ Parr is leading the way to restore Ebenezer Baptist Church. The goal is to raise $700,000.
Restoration began on the church in April of 2001, but was stopped midstream after the project fell short of its $1.8 million goal.
In 1999, the National Park Service took control over the land. This organization raised $1.1 million for the project. Phase I of the restoration is scheduled to be completed by Jan. 21.
“Radio One is a company that serves African-American communities across the country, and we feel that it is our obligation to try to help save Ebenezer Baptist Church. Dr. King tragically lost his life and devoted his time to making this world a better place for everyone to live in,” said Parr, whose Washington, D.C. radio program is heard in 20 cities across the country.
America is in the midst of a war. Everyone is holding tightly to their money and corporations are firing people by the thousands. Yet, simple things that mean so much to blacks are being preserved.
At a time when people are showing little concern for others, politicians, clergy members and national recording artists are coming out and supporting a good cause. There is no limit when it comes to precious memories. So, how can you put a price tag on preserving a church that molded such an influential man as Dr. King?
-Antione Davis of the Editorial Board