See scenes from the Archdiocesan Prayer Service in honor of the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Monday night, Jan. 18. Read full coverage here of the event that filled St. Katharine Drexel Church in Chester. (Photos by Sarah Webb)
The Philadelphia Catholic Mass Choir leads the congregation in song at the 33rd annual service marking the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday.
Guest speaker Rev. Cean James, pastor of Grace Christian Fellowship, UCC Church, makes a point during his talk.
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Participants place cards they signed to pledge to do acts of mercy throughout this year which has been declared the Year of Mercy by Pope Francis.
The standing-room-only congregation joins hands and sings “We Shall Overcome” in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
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Deacon William Bradley, director of the archdiocesan Office for Black Catholics, offers a final prayer and blessing at the prayer service at St. Katharine Drexel Church, Chester.
The Philadelphia Catholic Mass Choir, led by director Kenny Arrington, belts out a moving hymn.
Marva Murray from Our Lady of Hope Parish in Philadelphia claps and signs along in praise.
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Dolores Street from Second Macedonia Baptist Church in Philadelphia.
Theresa M. Spotwood from Our Lady of Hope Parish in Philadelphia.
Bonnie Waites (center) from Shilo Baptist Church in Chester attended the service at St. Katharine’s.
Eloise Gonzalez from Our Lady of Hope Parish traveled on a bus from North Philadelphia to Chester with fellow parishioners.
Delores Thomas from St. Barbara Church in West Philadelphia.
Father Tom Whittingham welcomes parishioners and guests to St. Katherine Drexel Church for the MLK service.
Peter Benson (left) and Chris Brawley pray side by side.
Gus Lugay from St. Katherine Drexel Parish proclaims a reading from Scripture.
Kayla Carmichael from Our Lady of Hope Parish joyfully sings along with the choir.
Diane Berry from St. Athanasius Parish in Philadelphia is brought to her feet as the choir sings.
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