Religious and political leaders recently shared the stage at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) “Day of Healing,” on Saturday, Sept. 14.
“Day of Healing is not just a celebration—it’s a gathering of hearts and minds, coming together to reflect on our shared history and to draw strength for the work that lies ahead,” CBCF wrote in an announcement about this year’s gathering.
The annual motivational event, filled with prayers, inspirational messages and uplifting performances, included Bishop Paul S. Morton, a veteran broadcaster, singer, founder of the Full Gospel Fellowship and retired pastor of Greater St. Stephen in New Orleans, Louisiana, served as the keynote speaker.
He was joined on stage with Pastor Beverly Crawford and singer Zacardi Cortez.
“Open the windows of Heaven. Let it rain,” sang Morton.
From surviving Hurricane Katrina to overcoming colon cancer, Morton spoke about overcoming hard times, inspired by Galatians 6:9.”And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap if we faint not.”
In the same way, he attested to God blessing his life in so many ways, Morton drew many “Amens” and applause from the audience, as he said African Americans will prevail against former President Donald Trump and attacks from the far right.
“Don’t get tired, don’t get weak, don’t give into doubt, don’t lose heart because the devil’s job is to make you miss your season,” Morton preached. “There are only two powers in the world, God and the devil, good and evil.”
Without mentioning Trump’s name, Morton drew laughs, applause, and praise as he talked about leaders who talked about “people eating cats, dogs, and pets.”
Retired African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Bishop Vashti McKenzie, who serves as president of the National Council of Churches of Christ, reflected on Morton’s message.
“In our challenging times with all of the vital things, things can wear on you,” said McKenzie. “ Bishop Morton is trying to tell us that we will reap when we don’t faint not.”
AME Bishop Reginald Jackson, said there is much at stake this election season.
“We have to win that senate seat in Maryland, D.C. Statehood, and win in North Carolina,” Jackson noted.
The. Rev Kristen Natesan, pastor of Hemingway AME in District Heights, said: “I hope that we, as a people, come together and we have powers in a number. We have power in our vote. We have power by trusting in God.”
California Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D) explained Bishop Morton message made her think about the song “I Don’t Feel Noways Tired” (1978), recorded by the Rev. James Cleveland.
“I Ain’t Noways [tired],” Lee said, offering encouraging words. “Nobody told me the road would be easy, but we have to get this done.”