by J. Darrell Rollins, Christian Educator, Rock Hill AME Zion Church 

CONCORD — Individuals from Rock Hill AME Zion Church are planning a trip to the Emmanuel AME Church in Charleston, S.C.

The Rev. Samuel C. Blanks, pastor, led the Praise and Worship Benefit Service and Candlelight Vigil on Aug. 29, a service “To Remember those Who have lost their Lives, To Celebrate Those Who Are In Recovery and To Support Those Who are Still Fighting.”

City Council woman Jennifer Parsley gave beautiful greetings on behalf of the city and Cabarrus County and the local, connectional and national entities that sponsored this event.

Proceeds and presentations to be presented at The Emmanuel AME Church in Charleston on Sunday, Sept. 6 include a commemorative plaque and gifts, a poem written by Fidelina W. Jackson, the administrative assistant to the pastor of Sandy Ridge AME Zion Church in Landis, and a poster designed by Jacqueline L. Anthony, Salisbury District Technology Committee chair and WH&OMS media coordinator.

Evangelist Natalie-Caldwell Kirkpatrick was the mistress of ceremonies at the special fundraising service, which also featured Keith Holland and Friends, Unity N Praise, the Jerusalem Baptist Church Praise Team and St. Luke Baptist Church of Salisbury.

Many local businesses made special contributions and donations to make this epic event possible. Special thanks to members of Rock Hill AME Zion Church and supporters that came out and sent donations to make this event possible.