East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church

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MULTICULTURAL MINISTRIES

MLK Day 2026

Celebrating the Life of The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The theme for this year’s celebration is “Bending the Arc: Building the Beloved Community in Our Neighborhoods”. The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. had a vision of building a Beloved Community rooted in justice, reconciliation, compassion, and courage.

On January 18, 2026, you are invited to participate in events, celebrations, prayer breakfasts, worship services, and service projects in your community to honor the life, ministry, and legacy of Rev. Dr. King. At 4:00 p.m. that day Bishop Hee-Soo Jung will be part of a special service honoring Rev. Dr. King at Clair UMC in Columbus. You are invited to attend in-person or via livestream.

Why United Methodists Honor The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. King’s vision of justice, reconciliation, and nonviolent love aligns with our baptismal vow to “accept the freedom and power God gives us to resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves.” Celebrating MLK Day is an opportunity for every United Methodist church and faith community across Ohio to participate in public witness – spreading God’s love and a message of peace with justice in our communities.

Read UMC Book of Resolutions #3065 “Observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day”.

“Bending the Arc: Building the Beloved Community in Our Neighborhoods”
Local churches and our East Ohio Conference districts are encouraged to celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. King by making plans to:

attend a local MLK celebration, march, or service.
volunteer with local food pantries, youth programs, housing initiatives, etc.
host a church-based event focused on justice, equity, or community building.
partner with another congregation, preferably one racially or culturally different than yours.
collaborate with ecumenical or interfaith partners to promote understanding and unity.
promote MLK events and services planned in your community. E-mail event information to eoccommunications@eocumc.com.

MLK Day Community Events Shared with the EOC Communications office: