In support of Black History month, Commission Church of Pittsburgh dedicated an afternoon to paying tribute to the history of African Americans.
The Feb. 28 event, “Celebrating Black History Month,” took place on the North Side where members of the church and supporters gathered to pay tribute.
“As a member of Commission Church of Pittsburgh, once I got word about the program I knew I wanted to help in any way that I could. The program turned out very nice. DaMarra Underwood was my favorite segment. Her voice blew me away,” Shavone Mitchell said.
The service began with a free meal, where all attendees had the opportunity to eat lunch. Lunch consisted of chicken, fish, jambalaya, green beans, macroni and cheese, salad, and sweet potato pie. The programs then transitioned to the presentation. They kicked the program off with praise and worship, led by the lead singers of Commission Church of Pittsburgh, while also singing the Black National Anthem. Minister Andrew Lee was the host, and the opening prayer and scripture reading was delivered by Minister Dolores Thrower.
The second segment of the presentation was dedicated to Black History moments and special tributes. Janet Blair-Raible recited a poem, DaMarra Underwood sang Negro spirituals, Shavone Mitchell delivered different and interesting facts about women in Black history, and a student from Reed Dance studio delivered a heartfelt ballet dedication.
“God put it on my heart to put this program together for a variety of reasons; to pay tribute, hold an event for the community, to inform, and to fellowship for a good cause,” Min. Thrower said, “And this program did exactly that, and then some. I’m glad the event was such a success. Thanks to everyone who helped and participated and Happy Black History Month!”
Rev. J.E. Gamble then delivered a sermon where he spoke on the importance of Black unity, history, and #blackLivesMatter.
“Black lives must first matter among Black lives before we can convince others,” he said. “I love Black people, Black people are beautiful. If it doesn’t hurt you to see Blacks being gunned down and killed, something is wrong. Commitment is about rolling up your sleeves and getting involved. For God I live, and for God I die. We cannot forget that the church led the Civil Rights Movement,” Rev. Gamble said.
The program closed with song from Tori Walker, closing remarks from Commission Church of Pittsburgh’s Pastor, Rev. Walter C. Butler, and door prizes.
“Thanks to everyone who contributed to putting this program together. The talent blew me away. I would like to spend a special thanks to Min. Thrower for taking out the time to put this Black History Month Celebration together,” Rev. Butler concluded.
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