Churches embrace MLK Day as opportunity for community service

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s call to service was embraced by United Church of Christ congregations this year, as they turned the federal holiday into a day of community engagement rather than rest. In Shillington, Pennsylvania, over 75 individuals participated in the annual MLK Youth Day of Service at Immanuel United Church of Christ. The event, supported by local organizations like the Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks and Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom, involved activities such as making sandwiches for those in need and writing thank-you cards to first responders.

Rev. Jayme Babczak from Immanuel UCC emphasized the day's purpose: “This is a ‘day on’ rather than a ‘day off’ for our children and youth.” Participants included R.M., a ninth grader who noted that even on days off, one can choose to help others.

The day saw more than 300 sandwiches prepared for New Journey Community Outreach and 500 "power packs" assembled for students in need within the Governor Mifflin School District. Babczak highlighted the dual goals of aiding those in need while instilling compassion in young participants.

In Reading, Massachusetts, First Congregational Church hosted its own MLK Day of Service under Reading Cares' coordination. Betsy Schneider recalled her initial inspiration for action after attending an MLK breakfast years ago: “I would leave the breakfast wondering, ‘now what?’ What else can I do?” This year's event attracted about 75 people engaging in various community projects despite unpredictable winter weather.

President Bill Clinton's signing of the King Holiday and Service Act in 1994 established MLK Day as a national day of service. This year’s events were marked by an increased awareness and urgency towards helping others. Rev. Babczak described an atmosphere filled with joy during Shillington's gathering: “There was an overflowing feeling...of making a difference together.”

Babczak attributed this spirit to strong interfaith relationships within Shillington: “This day showed us what is possible when we celebrate our diversity and come together.”