Events, Speakers Honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Throughout the month of January, the Taylor community has been studying the book of James to gain a deeper understanding of the Christian life. The University will continue this reflection while honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday, January 15, 2024. Regularly scheduled classes are suspended to create space for students and faculty to participate.

According to Rev. Greg Dyson, Campus Pastor and Vice President for Spiritual Life & Intercultural Leadership, the book of James teaches principles of care, generosity, equality, taming the tongue, and matching word and deed–all values that were in line with the work of Dr. King as he championed the Civil Rights movement.

The programming begins with chapel at 10 am featuring Dr. Chris Williamson as the keynote speaker. Williamson is an author and the senior pastor at Strong Tower Community Church in Franklin, Tennessee. Additionally, Chris Latham and New Covenant Worship Band from Fort Wayne, Indiana, will lead the campus in worship.

The University will offer two workshops for growth and engagement–one for students and one for faculty and staff. Students are invited to join a live table event hosted by Pastor Debra Morton and Sandra Baron in Cornwall Auditorium. These two dynamic leaders share a powerful friendship that dates back to the national tragedy of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Faculty are invited to participate in an interactive workshop hosted by Dr. Veola Vazquez, co-author of Healing Conversations on Race.

“Martin Luther King Day has been celebrated for over three decades at Taylor University,” said Dyson. “I’m always encouraged by student participation in the conversation as we consider the Biblical mandate to live out our beliefs, and we are looking forward to reflecting and celebrating the achievements of Dr. King with the whole Taylor community.”