The faithful filled St. Barbara Church in West Philadelphia for a prayer service honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday, Jan. 19, the national holiday of service and remembrance of the civil rights leader. Archbishop Charles Chaput participated, along with other Catholic clergy who work closely with black Catholics in parishes of the Philadelphia Archdiocese. (Photos by Sarah Webb)
Father Christopher Walsh, pastor of St. Raymond of Penafort Parish in Philadelphia, served as master of ceremonies for the service at St. Barbara Church.
Members of the St. Vincent Parish choir in Germantown lead a hymn of praise.
Archbishop Charles Chaput and Rev. Wilson Goode Sr., an ordained Baptist minister and former mayor of Philadelphia, process up the center aisle of St. Barbara’s at the start of the prayer service.
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Paula Holloway, at the microphone, leads the congregation and the St. Raymond Parish choir in song.
The St. Barbara Choir sings under the direction of Reginald Carter, at the organ.
Msgr. Wilfred Pashley, pastor of St. Barbara Parish, leads the people in prayer.
Knight of Peter Claver Eugene Frasier, right, prays with the congregation.
Patricia Shelton is brought to her feet in praise.
Rev. Dr. Wilson W. Goode Sr., former mayor of Philadelphia, delivers a reading and reflection.
Patricia Shelton leads a prayer at St. Barbara Church.
The St. Vincent Choir, under the direction of Darin Williams, sings a hymn at the service.
Vincentian Father Sylvester Peterka delivers a reading and reflection.
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The Blacks are not afraid to open up their hearts. Jesus is very happy with the praise and love which comes forth. We non black have a lot to learn from them. Love Paul