Mitch Carnell

After the murder of nine worshipers at Emanuel AME Church, First Baptist Church of Charleston responded in several ways.

On the Sunday following the shooting Pastor Marshall Blalock preached an especially encouraging sermon., “When Tragedy Strikes,” based on Romans 12:21. Members of the congregation wrote prayers for and messages to the members of Mother Emanuel Church. Those notes were attached to a cross and carried by members to Mother Emanuel. The procession was joined by members of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church. Other mourners attached notes to the cross. The cross remained outside for two days and then was taken inside as a memorial. The pastor helped to secure a gift of $25000.00 to the church from the South Carolina Baptists Convention.

On June 25^th. First Baptist Church hosted a community prayer service involving churches and church leaders from multiple denominations.

Long before this tragedy, the congregation had engaged in a tutoring program with third grade students at Mmmninger  Elementary School to elevate their reading levels. The program directed by Emory Hyatt, Minister to Children, has been a great success. These are the types of programs that make a real contribution to the lives of young children.