On Saturday, Sept. 19, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) hosted its 55th Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C. The centerpiece of the gathering was the Day of Healing Prayer Breakfast, a long‑standing tradition that draws clergy, policymakers, community leaders, and constituents from across the nation.
Keynote Emphasizes Faith and Service
Rev. Dr. George L. Parks Jr., pastor of the historic Metropolitan Baptist Church in Largo, Maryland, delivered the keynote sermon. He likened today’s challenges to the biblical story of Nebuchadnezzar, urging listeners to rely on quiet strength of faith and to serve God “without guarantee.” Parks warned, “It is true that we won’t stand by and see our women objectified. It is true that we will not stand idle and allow people who think they are superior to take this country.” He added, “You can’t die on every hill, and not every hill is worth your blood. But all of us ought to find a hill that is worth your blood.”
Conference Leaders Highlight Community Impact
Earlier in the week, CBCF President Nicole Austin‑Hillery told The Informer that the conference’s events—ranging from the annual Town Hall to the Day of Healing—are designed to leave participants “Rooted, Ready and Rising,” echoing the ALC55 theme. She emphasized that the goal is to equip attendees to continue the work in their own neighborhoods and churches.
Music and Closing Appeal
The morning featured a performance by Grammy‑nominated John P. Kee & The New Life, whose uplifting songs set a reverent tone for the proceedings. In her closing remarks, Austin‑Hillery invoked the legacy of the late Great John Lewis, saying, “The winds will be changed. And when those winds change, we are going to do what the late Great John Lewis told us to do in his biography: we’re going to walk with the wind.”
Why This Matters for the Community
The Day of Healing Prayer Breakfast serves as more than a spiritual gathering; it is a platform for faith‑based leaders to address social issues, encourage civic engagement, and reinforce the moral foundations that support strong families and communities. By bringing together voices from the faith community and the halls of power, the CBCF reinforces the partnership between religious conviction and public service.
As the conference continues, participants will engage in policy discussions, networking sessions, and workshops aimed at advancing legislation that protects civil rights, promotes economic opportunity, and upholds the dignity of every individual. The event underscores the enduring role of faith in shaping public discourse and fostering a hopeful vision for the nation’s future.
Original reporting: The Washington Informer — read the source article.
