Thousands to Join the City-Wide March, “Prayer on the 9” in a Show of Solidarity

Senior Pastor John F. Hannah and the New Life Covenant SE Church congregation invite families and the entire Chicago community to stand together for the annual “Prayer on the 9” initiative. “Prayer on the 9” is a community outreach program that serves as a catalyst for social change in various Chicago communities where violence is most prevalent. The march will be held on Saturday, May 18 at 10 a.m. at 79th Street and Greenwood.

Pastor Hannah will deliver a community address at the opening of the ceremony during the “family gathering.” At 11:00 a.m., five families will be presented with $1,000 cash awards. This money will be awarded to households headed by a single mother, father or grandparent. At 12:30 p.m., Pastor Hannah and his family will lead “The Step Out,” during which the entire group will be directed to begin the march.

The initiative was created to draw citywide attention to the senseless violence and shootings that plague Chicago and serve as a call-to-action to pray together as one community — one city against violence of any kind.

The focus this year is on families. Families and community leaders who understand the need to work together to quell the violence so that our youth can live in peace are encouraged to join. Participants will walk and pray for the safety and peace their communities deserve. The march will last for two miles along both sides of 79th Street from Greenwood to the Dan Ryan Expressway.

The hope is that this show of solidarity and love will help all youth realize that life is precious and that all lives should be valued.

Pastor Hannah states, “Strengthening family is an important priority. Our youth deserve to live their lives without fear of senseless shootings and violence. They deserve to live long and healthy lives free of trauma and daily fear.” He continues, “It’s time for clergy, church members, organizations, students, teachers and community leaders to step out of the boundaries of their four walls to bridge the gap that will create positive change in the community.”

Pastor Hannah is encouraging all of Chicago to participate.

“Prayer is the strongest power on Earth. Together, we will harness the power of collective prayer to address the problems of the community while seeking healing and transformation for the many ills in our society, including all types of violence, poverty, mental and physical illness and more,” said Pastor Hannah who leads a congregation of nearly 19,000 people. New Life Covenant SE follows the principles of love, worship, word, outreach and community development.

To register for “Prayer on the 9,” please visit www.prayeronthe9.org. Follow the specific instructions for “individuals” or “churches/organizations” to receive block placement assignments. For further information, please call 773-285-1731.

 

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