Encouraging residents to open communication and show respect for one another
By Lauren Parker- Gill, News Editor, The Times
Over 60 people, including State Representative Harry Lewis Jr. (R-74) and City Council President Linda Lavender- Norris attended the peace walk in Coatesville Wednesday.
COATESVILLE – Following the recent shootings in Orlando, Florida and around the world, as well as the recent attacks on police officers, Pastor Montez Jones of Judah Ministries gathered with his congregation and planned a peace walk as an opportunity to open dialogue and show respect for everyone.
Following the first successful peace march in Coatesville two weeks ago, Judah Ministries decided to plan a second one – this one with the theme of showing the love for the city.
More than 60 people gathered at Gateway Park at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday and were led in prayer for peace and love by Jones. Before the walk began, a choir formed together to sing about Coatesville becoming a better place for all.
As the march proceeded down Lincoln Highway, the group made up of men, women and children of all races and religions were united together while they asked for peace and love in Coatesville. People driving by honked their horns in show of support and yelled, “We love Coatesville” as they passed.
City Council president Linda Lavender- Norris helped lead the parade at times and was joined by State Representative Harry Lewis of the 74th district.
“This is a great thing for our community” Lewis stated as he looked around at everyone in attendance.
Mayor of Downingtown, Josh Maxwell, who is also running for State Representative of the 74th district, joined Coatesville residents as they walked through the city.
Josh Maxwell, mayor of Downingtown and running for state representative of the 74th district said he hopes people will someday associate Coatesville with the word love, instead of negativity.
As families gathered on their porches to watch the peace, love and unity march go by, one family yelled, “We’re all in this together!” and another family said, “We’re one big family.”
At the end of the walk, the entire group gathered in the field at Scott Middle School, where a final prayer was said and everyone said their goodbyes. As they were walking back to Gateway Park, it sounded as though plans were already in the works for another walk for peace, love and unity in Coatesville.
“Greater opportunities to perpetuate this dream of unity, love and togetherness are being organized.” Jones said in an email.
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