City, faith leaders use prayer to help fight crime

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — City and faith leaders say the power of prayer is needed as one possible solution to help end crime and violence in Memphis.

At W.C. Handy Park along historic Beale Street, Thursday was not just about the music this street is famous for but it’s one where city and faith leaders and fervent believers gathered to pray for a city they say needs a lot of healing.

“We are certainly thankful for this National Day of Prayer,” Reginald Boyce with the Office of Community Affairs said.

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The Reverend Clemmie Livingston Jr., the pastor shot earlier this year trying to stop a car theft at New Zionfield Church, was honored by the city as he shared his prayer.

“Prayerfully we can all work together and find peace within our city. It can be done. It’s nothing too hard for God,” Livingston said.

Also in attendance were Mayor Paul Young and Interim Police Chief C.J. Davis. WREG asked Mayor Young about the recent mass shooting in Orange Mound and why he says it’s important to turn prayer into action.

“Hearts are certainly heavy seeing the unspeakable tragedies with that type of heavy artillery that was being used in a park with children,” Young said. “We’re working hard to hold those individuals accountable and want to stand with the Orange Mound Community as they heal.”

“We’re really trying to address these problems. Not just arresting people, but a holistic approach and get to the root causes as well,” Davis said.

The theme for this year’s National Day of Prayer is “Lift up the Word, light up the world.”

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