MLK & Black Awareness
Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Asheville to host service emphasizing faith, reconciliation, and civic responsibility.
The Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Asheville will host its annual MLK & Black Awareness Service in the form of an interactive panel discussion on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. at New Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church, located at 2 Herman Street, Asheville, NC 28801.
This year’s theme, “A Reconciling Time—Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community?,” calls the faith community and the broader public to reflect deeply on the moral crossroads facing our city, nation, and world. The service will be grounded in 2 Corinthians 5:16–19, focusing on the ministry of reconciliation and the Christian responsibility to be agents of healing, justice, and peace.
In keeping with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of faith-driven civic engagement, attendees are encouraged to participate in a “Souls to the Polls” Primary Election effort prior to the service by voting at the Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Center (285 Livingston Street, Asheville, NC 28801).
To support this effort, the service start time has been moved to 3:30 p.m., allowing participants to vote and still gather for fellowship, reflection, and dialogue, with the service concluding around 5 p.m.
“This gathering is both sacred and civic,” organizers shared. “Dr. King taught us that faith without action is incomplete. This service invites us to pray, reflect, vote, and recommit ourselves to building beloved community in a time of division and uncertainty.”
Apostle Inez Davis-Ray is President of the IMA of Asheville, and the planning committee includes Rev. Vic Wilfong, Rev. Gary McDaniel, Rev. Darrell Sullivan, and Rev. Douglas Bynum (committee chairperson), representing a cross-section of denominational leadership united around justice, reconciliation, and community empowerment.
“The service is free and open to the public, but there will be an opportunity to support programming like this and our future work with a financial donation. All are welcome—clergy, congregations, community members, and neighbors—to join in worship, witness, and action.”
About the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Asheville
The purpose of the IMA is to glorify Christ, edify the Church, and sanctify the World by fulfilling the Great Commission. This Alliance is committed to addressing any and all issues that threaten the well-being of Christianity or humanity—whether political, social, economic, or spiritual in nature. All matters addressed by this Alliance will be resolved through theological principles, with the goal of advancing the cause of Christ and promoting the professional development of our ministry and our members.
For more information, please visit the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Asheville at imaofasheville.org, or phone (828) 367-9812.
