Picayune Hosts Annual MLK Day Parade and Service
Published 11:41 pm Wednesday, January 22, 2025
Mr. John Richard (Grand Marshal) and Mr. Cedric Foster (Keynote Speaker)
MLK Committee with Mr. John Richard
Mr. John Richard
The city of Picayune held its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day parade, culminating in a commemorative service at the Rose of Sharon Church. The MLK of Picayune Group organized the event, bringing the community together to honor Dr. King’s legacy through reflection, music, and inspirational messages.
The service began with Mistress of Order Pastor Lydia Blakely leading the program. The processional opened with the hymn, “We’ve Come This Far by Faith,” followed by Boy Scouts of America Troop 5 leading the Pledge of Allegiance.
Reverend Robert Landor delivered the Call to Worship, with scripture readings from the Old and New Testaments by Pastor Henry S. Marshall and Pastor Russell C. Davis, respectively. Pastor Ronald Victor led the congregation in prayer, and Missionary Genezerette Acker provided a warm welcome address.
The Picayune Youth Community Choir performed musical selections. Mrs. Desiree Richard introduced the Grand Marshal, Mr. John R. Richard.
Mr. Troy Foster introduced the guest speaker, Mr. Cedric Foster, whose speech highlighted Dr. King’s enduring impact on social justice and unity. The service continued with a special presentation from the MLK of Picayune Group, followed by the singing of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” known as the Hymn of the Movement. Pastor David Simmons concluded the event with a benediction.
The MLK of Picayune Group sincerely appreciated all participants and attendees for making the 2025 MLK Celebration a meaningful and successful event.
