The Wade in the Water Pilgrimage was a moving time of learning and setting a new vision for the participants. Friday evening,James Patterson Smith, Rev. Cynthia Cross, and Rev. Beth Matthews offered perspectives on life as it was in the mid 20th century how that experience was different for Black and White Americans. Saturday morning began with breakfast at Gulfside Assembly. Gulfside’s important role in the lives of Black Americans and the Civil Rights Movement was shared. The group journeyed to the office of Dr. Gilbert Mason Sr. and listened to Clemon P. Jimerson, Sr. as he shared about the civil rights work involved in opening up the beaches. Lunch was served at St. Paul UMC, Biloxi and as everyone ate, more eyewitness accounts were shared with those present. The pilgrimage concluded with remembrance and worship on the beach in Biloxi.
Our 2019 tour was a great success! We had over 30 adults and youth who traveled to South Carolina. As they journeyed, they visited colleges, the Charleston harbor and aquarium, and participated in the Southeast Jurisdiction BMCR Harambee at Claflin University. Our team even won the basketball tournament!