An article from the Cathedral Times
by the Very Reverend Samuel G. Candler,
Dean of the Cathedral of St. Philip
What are you doing after the Falcons game on Sunday evening, September 17? Some of you will be at the Cathedral Evensong and Communion. Some of you will be at one of our youth events. Some of you will be at our own Sunday evening 7:00 worship. Some of you will be spending deserved rest time with your families. Those are all worthy endeavors!
However, I will be down at the Philips Arena, for what promises to be a mighty engaging and enthusiastic event. I have been asked to join Bishop Eddie Long and members of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church at a "Unity Prayer Service" at 7:00 pm. And, I am asking you to join us, too.
I have only a small idea of what to expect. I do know these things: the service is not meant to highlight any one church or particular ministry. The list of fourteen pastors who are joining the event does not include any of the old Christian mainline and traditional pastors, except for me at the Cathedral of St. Philip. The theme will be various members of the body united as one voice.
I will attend because I believe in such gatherings, and because I do want to make a witness of Christian unity across denominational boundaries. The Christian Church has lots of variations, but I welcome any opportunity to demonstrate our united prayer. I expect lots of color at the service, lots of black folks and lots of white folks. I expect some music and worship not often experienced in the Episcopal tradition. I expect to have fun, in the Spirit.
I welcome you to join the event, even though I really cannot tell you any more about it. Admission is free (at the Philips Arena), but you'll have to pay for parking. Doors open at 6:00. I like Psalm 133 and Philippians 2; and I like spiritual surprises!
The Very Rev. Sam Candler