MEMPHIS, Tenn. — New Salem Missionary Baptist Church leadership held a prayer circle for roughly 100 people on Wednesday.
As the first day of early voting neared an end, the church contributed to the growing number votes that Shelby County is already seeing.
Black churches nationwide have often been leaders in mobilizing black voters and advancing civil rights in the community. For decades, faith-based organizations and churches have been critical in mobilizing black voters by leading voter registration drives and educational events.
In many cities across the nation, for politicians, the route to winning an election has often been through African-American churches.
“Many times in the African-American community, we’re slow about coming out to the polls, and I thought I would try to encourage the saints of Salem to lead in this endeavor so that others will follow,” said Pastor Frank Ray.
The prayer circle brought together around 100 men, women and children from all backgrounds.
“I realize and recognize that so many of our ancestors bled and died for my right to vote, so it is important for me to keep that dream alive and cast my vote,” said Yolanda Bonner, a Memphis voter and New Salem Baptist Church member.
Many city leaders also came to the circle, reflecting much of what voters want to see in the next set of elected politicians: effort and honesty.
“In terms of crime in the city, it is important to make sure that we have the right people in the right office to make sure that the right decisions are made for our safety and our welfare,” Bonner said.
“We need it where we have the right president and House of Representatives, because who’s going to stand with us in our struggles?" another Memphis voter and church member, Cherry Echols, asked.
Pastor Ray said that his congregation will continue to encourage other people not at the prayer circle to cast their ballot.