Big Bethel A.M.E. Church in Atlanta to host MLK Day Commemoration Jan. 18,

 Isaac Newton Farris, Jr. featured guest speaker 

ATLANTA— Big Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church will commemorate the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during a powerful MLK Day observance on Sunday, Jan. 18, 10 a.m. The church is located at 220 Auburn Ave. NE, in Atlanta’s historic Sweet Auburn District.

Held at a critical moment for the nation, the observance will directly address renewed threats to democracy and voting rights. Featured guest speaker Isaac Newton Farris, Jr., senior fellow at The King Center and nephew of Dr. King, will reflect on Dr. King’s enduring moral leadership and its relevance to today’s civil rights landscape.

Adding national urgency, U.S. Congressman Troy Carter (LA-02) will attend and speak on Callais v. Louisiana, a case currently before the U.S. Supreme Court that could significantly weaken, and potentially dismantle the remaining enforcement power of the Voting Rights Act, one of the Civil Rights Movement’s most consequential victories.

“Dr. King’s legacy demands more than remembrance; it demands action,” said the Rev. Dr. Jonathan C. Augustine, Senior Pastor of Big Bethel A.M.E. Church. “As voting rights face renewed attack, the church must once again help lead the moral call to protect democracy and civic participation.”

The service will also honor Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Founded in 1908, the sorority’s long-standing commitment to service, advocacy, and civic engagement reflects the values at the heart of Dr. King’s vision. 

The event is open to the public and is expected to draw faith leaders, elected officials, members of the Divine Nine, and community advocates committed to justice and democratic participation.

For more information, visit www.bigbethelame.org.  

About Big Bethel A.M.E. Church

Founded in 1847, Big Bethel is Atlanta’s oldest Black church and a historic center for worship, advocacy, and social justice in the Sweet Auburn. 

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