By Dr. James Orr
The Back to School prayer event sponsored by Empowerment in Action was held at the Dillon County Courthouse at 6 p.m. on August 4, 2022.
Nearly 150 people attended and many more prayed from their homes and offices.
The prayer event was part of the continuing effort to curb teen gun violence and crime. Local officials, teachers, coaches, parents and students were invited to attend and join in prayer. The event was moderated by Dillon County Sheriff Douglas Pernell. Sixteen local pastors participated in the event.
Elder Tommy Pittman opened with Scripture and the Mission Statement. “The existence of this association is to function as a caring intervention from crime. The purpose is to empower men and women with the Godly/Spiritual/Prayerful influence to discourage the operation of violence, destruction of lives, and high crime in our community.” Pastor Jamont McRae prayed for coaches, athletes, teachers, and students: Bishop H. B. Drake prayed for the school administration, bus drivers, custodians, cafeteria workers, and school resource officers: Dillon City Police Department Training Officer Ricky Day prayed for parents, families, and the community; and there was a time of corporate prayer led by Rev. Joseph Graham. Elder Douglas Gerald closed in prayer.
The next planned event is on August 18, 7 p.m., at the Latta IGA parking lot, Latta.