REFLECTIONS: 2012 Memorial Weekend

Oh what a joy it was to witness the 2012 Memorial Day Celebrations! It was such an humbling opportunity to see the thousands of people converging upon one city, with one goal in mind. God's presence with the United House of Prayer for All People was evident.

Despite the scorching heat, on Saturday, May 26 during the Memorial Day Parade, it was a joy to see the people of all ages participating. The parade started at Noon and lined the streets of Washington, DC's Shaw Neighborhood. Hundreds watched from their homes and cars as the marching bands and other members marched. As I marched with members from several states including Georgia, Virginia, and South Carolina, we found a moment in the parade to be especially moving. As we turned the corner to pass Daddy Grace's home (Logan Circle), you could hear sisters speaking in tongues and crying out. Tears filled my eyes and I got caught up in the spirit of the holy ghost. It was a moment I will never forget. There was something so powerful about looking at the pictures of our former leaders - Sweet Daddy Grace, Sweet Daddy McCollough, and Sweet Daddy Madison. We knew they were smiling down on us and the spirit of God in us was manifesting itself through the tears and unknown tongues. At the conclusion of the parade, despite being tired, I had a sense of satisfaction. I passed Daddy Bailey, he waved and smiled, and I knew God was pleased. There is no greater feeling.

The Memorial Service on Sunday, May 27, 2012 was by far one of the best! Apostle A. D. Cunningham was a perfect Master of Ceremonies. He offers a spirituality and genuineness that is unmatched by other denominations . While all of the ministers on this year's program were on point, I was particularly moved by two things. First, the reflections by Elder Stevenson from Charlotte, North Carolina. His testimony about how Daddy Grace healed his brother was powerful! As a young person, I was so moved to hear his story. So often, we read about the miracles in Daddy Grace and Daddy McCollough's day, but we rarely hear them from the mouths of the true witnesses. The second event during the Sunday service that moved me was Apostle White's sermon. He was so thorough with his message - God is in control! If there was anyone in the building that did not believe, that sermon should have convinced him/her.

Sister Brandi Cummings,
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