Spiritual and community leaders in Pembroke East will mark Rev. Martin Luther King's birthday with a Peace March and rally in their area this year.

In the wake of the spate of violence that erupted in early December, area church leaders banded together and even took to the streets to assure residents of God's love and of the presence of the church in the community to help them.

And now the group has planned a peace march that they hope will also feature presentations by former gang members. The march slated for January 16 will see groups starting from two locations. One group from St. Monica's Church accompanied by the North Village Band, and the other from St. Augustine's Hill with the Salvation Army Band. The two groups joining at the Victor Scott playing field for a Peace fair and rally.

"All the helping agencies in the Island have been invited to set up information and help stalls at Victor Scott for the residents of the area," said Rev. Dill.

And he said a pamphlet outlining their combined services will also be distributed in the area. "Alongside this we are compiling another flyer with the services and ministries provided by local churches," he said.

"There will be some entertain"There will be some entertainment for children and speakers who we hope will include former gang members, representatives from the youth, seniors and a representative of the faith communities," he said.

In organising the Peace March the committee is being true to their commitment to have a local movement that looks out for the needs of neighbours.

In addition to their door knocking campaign last month the group also held a prayer vigil to console neighbours following the murder of well-loved resident Kummi Hargrove. And prayer boxes have been erected outside many area churches for the convenience of those who might not want to attend church but who want to be prayed for.

Recognising that many people may be uncomfortable with attending church, the leaders are continuing to try to quench people's need for consolation, support by making their spiritual messages and healing more accessible.

Instead of confining their ministries to their physical church buildings and their congregations, the leaders are offering programmes and events right where residents will use them.

In an effort to offer a complete healing package the religious leaders have also banded with community groups and helping organisations like the Police action team and crime watch.

"This is our response from the neighbourhood to the Rise Up Challenge and takes things a step closer," said Rev. Dill. "We are also planning a series of monthly meetings on particular topics for the residents, regular pastors meetings and walk-abouts."