THE TWENTY-sixth Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Junior Interfaith Community Memorial Service in Nevada (USA) concluded with mantras from ancient Hindu scriptures on January 15.

Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, besides Gayatri Mantra, the most sacred mantra of Hinduism, also read from Bhagavad-Gita (Song of the Lord), Upanishads and Rig-Veda (oldest existing scripture of mankind) during his “benediction” on the occasion.

Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, pointed out that both Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King shared a common vision on fighting injustice. Reciting from Bhagavad-Gita, Zed stressed that action was better than inaction and act selflessly without any thought of personal profit.

Held at Second Baptist Church (SBC) in Reno with the theme “Remembering the dream, Fulfilling the mandate”, this Service also included musical selections, “What’s Going On?” and “Love Train Medley” (both performed by Power of Love and directed by Leon W. Smith) and another by SBC Choir (directed by Dr. Jesse Hall); congregational hymns “Lift Every Voice and Sing” and “We Shall Overcome”; and video tribute to King (presented by Deacon Stephan Fuelling of International Community of Christ).

Lonnie Feemster, President of Reno-Sparks Chapter of National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People, delivered the keynote address; while Bishop Gene Savoy Junior, President of Nevada Clergy Association; Reverend William C. Webb, SBC Pastor Emeritus; Mary Cooper of Northern Nevada Martin Luther King Junior Holiday Commission (NNMLKJHC); also spoke on the occasion. Reverend Clarence Brooks of SBC gave the “invocation”.

Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval’s proclamation and message from United States Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid were also read on the occasion by Verita Black Prothro. Service was jointly organized by NNMLKJHC and Nevada Clergy Association. Nobel laureate Dr. King (1929-68) is an American civil rights icon.