Pastor John F. Hannah of New Life Covenant SE Church will host their annual citywide event, “Prayer on the 9,” on Saturday, May 25, in the Grand Crossing community of Chicago, IL. This essential gathering aims to kick off Chicago’s summer with much-needed prayer, compassion, and hope for a safe season.
The event will begin at 11 am with an opening prayer, followed by Pastor Hannah sharing words of wisdom and setting expectations for the anticipated event. Select elected officials, community leaders, and prayer leaders may also offer remarks. At noon, attendees will either march along 79th Street or gather on each block, praying and crying out for God’s protection, love, and guidance.
Prayers will cover various topics, including a call against violence, strength for Chicago’s youth and families, a continued drop in the crime rate, each of Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods, and a safer Chicago overall.
The entire city is invited to unite in prayer, as there is power in numbers. Attendees are encouraged to wear red shirts in solidarity, symbolizing “the blood of Christ,” said Pastor Hannah. “We have to bring people together.” When the community stands united, positive change can happen—the goal is to ensure that positive things happen.
Prayer Needed Now Than Ever Before
With more than 170 homicides in Chicago (at the time of this writing) in 2024, it’s clear that change must happen expeditiously to reduce gun violence in the city. However, when it comes to gun violence, “this isn’t solely a Chicago problem, but an American problem,” said Pastor Hannah. America faces challenges with the use and accessibility of guns.
While Chicago’s overall crime rate is high, the media portrayal is higher, as Chicago does not rank in the top 10 violent cities – yet, there is still concern to pray, to unite, and to cover the place Chicagoans call home.
New Life in the Community: Support The Community Needs
When New Life SE moved into the Grand Crossing community, one of the primary goals was to incite change by bringing about hope. As change began to take root, the church noticed a troubling issue: the liquor store on the corner of 79th Street and Cottage Grove incited an increase in alcohol overindulgence, drug abuse, robberies, and other criminal activity.
The location of the liquor store posed a threat to those on public transportation since the bus stop near the store. Pastor Hannah recalled a disturbing incident when teen members of the church were followed and robbed after the bus let them out in front of the store. The news was very troubling, yet it served as a reminder that much work still needed to be done.
13 years ago, upon learning that the liquor store was not compliant with city regulations, Pastor Hannah saw a solution that could close the store. He held the city accountable by reminding them of the liquor store’s citations and many violations. Armed with this information, Pastor Hannah, the church, and community leaders stood in court to support the permanent closure of the liquor store.
The store reopened with hours from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. Pastor Hannah stated, “I promise you where they live,” referring to the business owners, “there’s no liquor store open that early or that late.”
Tragically, a few weeks ago, a New Life SE member lost her son to gun violence in front of the store, afflicting the family and community. The family will march in remembrance of their loved one.
With the recent closure in 2024, should the liquor store remain closed, the building represents a significant opportunity for new developments at the corner of 79th and Cottage Grove. With the right collaboration and investment, purchasing the building (should it go to market) could add to the positive change already initiated by the church.
Measurable Change Already Taking Place
As a former youth pastor and juvenile probation officer, Pastor Hannah has seen firsthand the impact of foundational trauma, which can lead to violence if unaddressed. He has recognized the signs of violence and ways to mitigate them. With the in located in the Grand Crossing community, where many members frequent and others live, it was imperative to enact measures to keep the members and community safe.
Today, it is evident that while there is still work to do, there has been a significant change in the crime rate in the Grand Crossing community from 2014 to 2024. This change is due to consistent efforts of prayer and community engagement.
Pastor Hannah wanted to bring “New Life” to a community most believed was a “dead zone,” using synchronized strategies in partnership with community leaders. The church’s outreach initiatives proven to reflect change included:
- Adopting the Betty Shabazz school to ensure students had a safe place to learn with proper resources.
- Clean and Green: where the church cleaned the community while building relationships with neighbors – planting seeds of hope.
- Food Pantry: where community and church members can receive free food made possible through the partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository.
- Hosting free events such as Trunk or Treat, Turkey Giveaways, and Christmas Extravaganzas, all free to the community.
- A back-to-school event where kids receive free school supplies, electronics, and shoes while enjoying activities like a petting zoo, music, rock climbing, roller skating, and go-cart riding right in their community.
The community is undoubtedly stronger, and unity is crucial in breaking the cycle of crime that has plagued the area. With the right partnerships in Grand Crossing, there can be a lasting change.
Tips for Safe Summer Activities for Chicago Families
- Don’t Worry, Pray, and Remember to Have Fun: As the school year ends – make family a priority and enjoy life together.
- Volunteer for Fun Summer Events: Engage in community activities that provide safe, structured environments while giving back.
- Explore Summer Activities: Look for camps, summer jobs, and other structured activities that keep children engaged and supervised.
- Enjoy Free and Fun Events: Take advantage of free events like movies in the park, free museum days, beach days, and neighborhood festivals. These provide safe and enjoyable experiences for the whole family.
- Cultural Exposure: There are 77 neighborhoods in Chicago – Travel to different parts of the city to expose the whole family to diverse cultures. Enrich their understanding and appreciation of the world around them.
Tips for Mental and Emotional Support to Help Protect the Family’s Well-Being
- Seek Grief Therapy: If dealing with community-based trauma or exposure to violence. Help the whole family heal, learn, and grow together. Professional support can strengthen family bonds during difficult times.
- Join a Support Group: Connect with other families facing similar challenges. Sharing experiences can provide emotional support and practical advice.
- Practice Self-Care: A parent needs to take care of themselves. Encourage your children to do the same. A healthy, happy parent sets a positive example.
- Set Healthy Boundaries: Establish and maintain healthy boundaries while being supportive. This helps children feel secure and respected.
- Stay Informed and Build Trust with your Children’s Circle: Know where your children are. In recent years, Downtown Chicago has become dangerous during the summer months leaving many to wonder if parents know where their children are. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and stay involved in their daily activities. Also, get to know your children’s friends and their parents. Establishing relationships with their social circle builds trust and ensures a safer environment.
By incorporating these activities and strategies, families in Chicago can enjoy a safe, enriching, and connected summer.
More Information
There is power in numbers, and the saying ‘stronger together’ holds significance on a day dedicated to covering the city. Prayer on the 9 is open to the community, so all are invited to pray, march, and stand united for the change the world needs to see!
For more information on this event, visit www.newlifesoutheast.org/prayer-on-the-9-2024.
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