On Sunday, Jan. 18, the Fayette community will unite to honor the life, legacy, and enduring vision of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during the annual community celebration.

This year’s observance, sponsored by the Fayette Ministerial Alliance in partnership with community volunteers, is centered on the theme “Rooted in the Dream-Rising With Purpose.” The theme reflects Dr. King’s unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and collective responsibility, and challenges the community to continue that work with intention and hope.

The day will begin with a Community Luncheon at 12:30 p.m. in the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, located at 101 W. Davis Street in Fayette, featuring a warm selection of soups, chili, sandwiches, and desserts as an offering of welcoming space for fellowship and reflection. All are invited to attend.

Following the luncheon, the community will gather for the MLK Community Service Program at 2 p.m. in the Assembly Hall on the campus of Central Methodist University. Guests are encouraged to enter campus from the Church Street entrance on the south side of Linn Memorial United Methodist Church. Access is also available through the doors beneath the clock tower.

The program will feature the Rev. Ron Tooley, Pastor of Mt. Olive Baptist Church in  Marshall, as the guest musician. Rev. Tooley is a dynamic and gifted artist whose musical journey is deeply rooted in Howard County. He often reflects on walking the streets of Armstrong as early as five years old, gazing into the sky, and engaging in heartfelt conversations with God. His ministry through music is grounded in a singular purpose, not to perform for human praise but to glorify God and allow others to be blessed through the anointing and sincerity that flow through his voice.

A new and interactive component will be introduced during this year’s service: MLK Discussion Circles for both youth and adults. Participants will gather in small groups to engage in guided conversations, reflecting on Dr. King’s life, legacy, and the continued relevance of his dream in today’s world.

The service will conclude with a reflective message from Rev. Lue Lockridge-Lane, Associate Minister at Lewis Chapel Community Church in Glasgow. Her closing message will highlight Dr. King’s legacy of justice, mercy, and humble faith, while offering encouragement for continued action within the community.

This year’s celebration invites Fayette to come together in remembrance and renewal as the community honors Dr. King’s legacy of love, unity, and justice, and renews its commitment to a more just, compassionate, and inclusive future for all.

For additional information, contact Rev. Charlie Wright, Sr. at (573) 470-1075 or by email at revcrwright@sbcglobal.net.