Community Corner

Phoenixville's Bethel Baptist Hosts MLK Day Celebration

Music and speeches marked Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday at a local church.

It was an evening of music and paying tribute to a legacy as the Inspirational Choir and many speakers took the stage in Phoenixville.

Monday night marked the 13th year Bethel Baptist Church held a celebration to mark Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday.

Speakers included church member Marilyn Williams, Phoenixville Mayor Leo Scoda, Chester County Commissioner Kathi Cozzone and Pennsylvania State Representative Warren Kampf (R-157).

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Cozzone brought two proclamations recognizing the church for holding this annual celebration. One proclamation came from the county commissioners, and the second from the Pennsylvania State Senate.

Several young men who attend Bethel Baptist Church spoke about Dr. King and performed short musical pieces.

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Scoda talked about Dr. King's legacy of education and making education and opportunities available for everyone.

Cozzone spoke about King's call to service. Quoting King, Cozzone said, "Everybody can be great because anybody can serve ... you only need a heart full of grace."

Kampf described King as "enormously brave" and said he was a "founding father" in his own way.

Williams, an active member of Bethel Baptist Church, said "We are here tonight to reflect and remember. We remember everything [King] did for the human race."

She also spoke about the value of dreams and how Dr. King's dreams made the world a better place.

"Validate your children; don't kill their dreams," Williams said.

The ceremony was sponsored by the Bethel Baptist Church Inspirational Choir, which was founded by Debbie P. Mitchell. 


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