Walk unites community

Lenoir County citizens will hit the streets Friday to begin a seven-week prayer walk that has become an annual event.

The non-denominational prayer walk kicked off Wednesday at St. James AME Church.

Maps were handed out to local church leaders, as well as individuals who wanted to pray for the community.

Barbara J. Perry, one of the prayer walk organizers said the prayer walk started in 2002, and had been a huge success.

“It’s really grown,” Perry said. “It started with a bunch of Christians who cared about (Lenoir County).”

Participants are given a map with the task to walk, or drive, the route while praying for the residents, businesses and churches along the way.

Organizers said there were 235 maps for the entire county, adding that several people may be involved in walking the route described in each map.

Jason McKnight, pastor of Grace Fellowship, said former prayer walks have focused on bringing industry to the area.

“What if God kept moving in this community?” McKnight asked the group in attendance. “He’s already brought Sanderson and Spirit (AeroSystems).”

Perry said although the prayer walk officially ends on Oct. 29, lots of participants pray for their area year-round.

“Some people have gotten territorial about there maps,” Perry joked. “People really feel ownership over the areas they are praying for.”

At conclusion of the prayer walk, participants will gather at the Lenoir County courthouse for a celebration of praise and thanksgiving.

“We’ll pray for our local government for about 30 minutes.” Perry said. “They need us praying for them.”

Justin Hill can be reached at 559-1078 or jhill@freedomenc.com.

The eighth annual prayer walk in Lenoir County begins Friday and runs through Oct. 29. Anyone wishing to participate can contact Barbara J. Perry at 252-523-5280 or Jason McKnight at 252-522-5799.