Faith Leaders Unite (File Photo – Yemi Kuku)
With the support of the Tournament of Roses and the City of Pasadena, faith leaders gathered inside the Tournament House on Dec. 31, 2022, to usher in the expectation of a healthier, safer, more peaceful, and just 2023.
By News Desk
The Clergy Community Coalition (CCC) and the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance (IMA) joined Tournament and Pasadena representatives at the second annual Faith Leaders Unite.
The prayer event was held in the Rose Room at the Tournament of Roses House of the Tournament House due to rain. It included a Land Welcome by leaders of the Gabrieleno (Tongva) Band of Mission Indians and prayers by several local clergy. Following the prayer organizers processed up Orange Grove to Colorado Boulevard and blessed the grounds where the parade will kick-off on January 2nd, 2023.
“Each new year, The Tournament of Roses Parade and Rose Bowl Game usher in opportunity for the world to celebrate together; new hopes and great expectations for peace and goodwill. Starting the year in prayer and gratitude across the different faiths demonstrates our unity and belief that even a global pandemic would not deter or our community celebration from marching on!” Assemblymember Chris Holden said.
“Although we are internationally known for the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game, which happens once a year, the Pasadena Tournament of Roses prides itself in celebrating the diverse cultures, values, and beliefs of our outstanding community on parade day and beyond. The parade theme, Turning the Corner, serves as our guide as we continue to rise above, stay focused, and keep the faith that the promise of a New Year remains,” said 2023 Pasadena Tournament of Roses President Amy Wainscott. “Through the second Annual Faith Leaders Unite Prayer Event, the community has an opportunity for a fresh start, turning the corner together with hope and celebration to unlock the unlimited potential this new year,” Wainscott added.
Faith Leaders Unite came about through a collaboration last year between local clergy, elected officials and Tournament of Roses leaders who agreed that it was proper and important to bring clergy together ahead of the world-renown Rose Parade to bless the community and the event in this manner.
Although efforts have focused on gathering Faith Leaders, the public was invited to join at 391 S. Orange Grove from 12:30 to 1:30 pm for the main event.
Rev. Mayra Macedo-Nolan and faith leaders inside the Rose Room (Photo – Yemi Kuku)
On the way to blessing the Parade route (Photo – Yemi Kuku)
At the second Faith Leaders Unite prayer event (Photo – Yemi Kuku)
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