A mariachi choir set an upbeat tempo. The strings were a-strummin’, the horns were a-blowin’ and the choir was a-singin’, as the lively mariachi choir started the service with its festive style of worship.
Passionate prayers and Scripture readings followed as the spirited folks in the pews echoed back the phrases and “amens” of their beloved brethren.
Temple High School Polyphonics and Belton Madrigal added wonderful harmonies as they sang songs lush with praise and beauty.
Not to be outdone was the music group Committed, which brought members of the crowd to a standing ovation by mixing poetic dictation with song in harmonious fashion. In an event that only lasted an hour, praise flowed steadily every second.
More than 200 people filled the sanctuary at St. James.
Representatives of citywide entities, ranging from the government to the media, brought forth prayers and dedications for the new year.
“We couldn’t think of a better way to bring the community together than in prayer,” said the master of ceremonies the Rev. Roscoe Harrison.
The event fused Scripture readings and prayer with musical performances.
Another highlight of the service was Dr. Jay Brown’s stirring address of the ethnically diverse Christian crowd.
“As I look out I am reminded of Joseph’s coat of many colors because I see individuals of many colors here today. But just as many colors were woven together in one garment, so are we woven together as one people - as Christ’s people,” he said.
Brown also emphasized the unity of Christians as Texans and Americans.
The event was put on “to invoke prayer for our communities and to ask God’s blessings on what goes on in our cities,” Temple Mayor Bill Jones III said.
This was the first year the event was at the church. Previous events were at the Frank W. Mayborn Convention Center, Jones said.
The prayer service was hosted by the C.A.R.E. Leadership Network. C.A.R.E. is an abbreviation for Community-Alternative-Resources-Empowerment. It’s an interdenominational and interfaith network that connects resources and members of the community to meet needs and concerns, Rev. Harrison said.
Congregations and community agencies are invited to participate in the network. Monthly meetings are on the first Thursday of each month at 7:30 a.m. For locations and information, call (254) 770-6850.
