By ADRIENNE TRUPIANO
Media Specialist
On Sunday, January 11, 2026, the Greater Detroit District of the United Methodist Church gathered at Trenton Faith United Methodist Church for the 32nd Celebration Honoring Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., presented under the theme Challenge of Change. With a spirit rooted in worship, remembrance, and resolve, the afternoon offered a powerful reminder that Dr. King’s call to justice is not confined to history—it is alive and unfolding among us today.
The celebration began with a reception at 2:30 p.m., followed by a moving service at 3:30 p.m., hosted by Rev. Dr. Tara Gay, Senior Pastor of Trenton Faith UMC. As worship opened, participants were invited into a symbolic “March to Washington” within the sanctuary, led by Rev. Dr. Gay. Congregants carried signs—some homemade, some provided by the MLK Committee—bearing messages of hope, justice, and unity. One theme rang clear throughout the sanctuary: Love Wins.
Grounded in worship and reflection, the service wove together prayer, music, and the enduring words of Dr. King, including his reminder that “our very survival depends on our ability to stay awake… and to face the challenge of change.” These words framed the afternoon as both a tribute and a call—urging those gathered to remain vigilant, courageous, and committed to justice in a time of profound social transformation.
A highlight of the celebration was the presentation of the Drum Major for Justice Awards, recognizing individuals whose lives reflect Dr. King’s vision of justice, peace, and righteousness. This year’s honorees were Jo Anna Risk of West Bloomfield UMC and Rev. Cornelius Davis Jr. of Scott Memorial UMC, both celebrated for their faithful leadership and unwavering commitment to equity and compassion within their communities.
The service also celebrated the next generation of leaders through the presentation of Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Scholarships, which honor Dr. King’s ministry by supporting students within the Greater Detroit District. Scholarship recipients included Abraham Karva (Grace Community, Detroit), Mateo Reyes (DownRiver, Taylor), Alexandria Rush (Scott Memorial, Detroit), Rodrekus Totty (Hope, Southfield), Carrington Turner and Christian Turner (Hazel Park First), and Kaylen Zondo (Grace Community, Detroit). Each award reflected the ongoing investment in education, leadership, and Christian values that strengthen both church and community.
Another moment of celebration came with the awarding of the Beloved Community Grants, a program launched to shine a light on justice-centered ministries making a tangible difference across the district. This year’s recipients were Conant UMC (Detroit), Cass UMC (Detroit), and St. Paul UMC (Detroit). These congregations were recognized for ministries that embody Dr. King’s vision of the Beloved Community—ministries that tear down barriers, embrace diversity, and extend Christ’s love beyond church walls.
As the service closed with voices joined in “We Shall Overcome,” the gathering stood as a testament to shared resolve and collective hope. The work continues through the MLK Memorial Scholarship Fund and the Beloved Community Grant Fund, which rely on the generosity of donors to support students and congregations living out Dr. King’s dream.
Plans are already underway for the 33rd Celebration on January 10, 2027, and the Greater Detroit District invites all to save the date and continue the journey—staying awake, standing together, and meeting the ongoing challenge of change with faith, courage, and love.
Your 32nd Annual MLK Committee: Rev. Rachael Dunlap, Tina Campbell, Susanna Klimek, Adrienne Trupiano, Micki Phelps, Victor Raybaud, and Rev. Dr. Darryl Totty