Sharpton preaches in N. Augusta 11/23/2008 10:39 PM
Staff photo by April Bailey
By APRIL BAILEY Staff writer
NORTH AUGUSTA -- Civil rights activist the Rev. Al Sharpton was in North Augusta Sunday morning where he delivered a spirited sermon at Carpentersville Baptist Church.
In his message, which he called, "God's Promise," Sharpton urged the congregation to trust in God and to always be thankful.
Sharpton is no stranger to the North Augusta church. It was at Carpentersville Baptist that Sharpton delivered the eulogy for James Brown when the late Godfather of Soul died almost two years ago.
Sharpton said he also visited the church during his bid for the presidency. He sought the democratic nomination as a candidate in the U.S. presidential election in 2004.
Following the services, the church was invited to hear more about the National Action Network, a nonprofit, civil rights organization founded by Sharpton in 1991.
The NAN works to address social and economic injustices in the United States; its motto is "no justice, no peace." Sharpton has served as president of the organization since it was founded.
Sharpton also hosts a daily radio show called, "Keeping it real with Al Sharpton."
He is in town to participate in the annual James Brown Turkey giveaway. The giveaway will be held at Dyess Park Community Center in Augusta today at 10 a.m.
Sharpton told the congregation that he is participating in the event to continue Brown's tradition of handing out turkeys to those in need. He talked about Brown often during his sermon, saying the soul legend was like a father to him.
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Comment Title: To Silent Minority
Have to say I agree with you: using the pulpit to further yourself or your political goals is a dangerous and questionable practice. Of course, using the political arena to further your religious goals is also a dangerous and questionable practice. Yet, I don't see people around here complaining nearly as strongly about that. Why is that?
Posted by: Silent minority On: 11/25/2008
Comment Title: Fraud
Al's no more of a reverand than I'm a doctor. Which seminary did he graduate from? Using God's house as a platform for you own personal agenda is a very dangerous thing.
Posted by: On: 11/24/2008
Comment Title:
I just wanted to point out that when you refer to yourself and others the proper word is "our" not are. Spell check before you send in a comment. But message was heard.
Posted by: Kim On: 11/24/2008
Comment Title: Join them!
I don't personally agree with everything Rev. Sharpton says and does, however he does bring the spotlight and the voice for those that aren't seen or heard. They say the squeaky wheel gets the oil. Well, we need people like Rev. Sharpton to stand up for what's right! If it hadn't been for civil rights activists and others like Rev. Sharpton minorities would have no rights at all. Sounds to me like some of you bitter folks should have been up in the church too...you definitely need JESUS. Amen HATRED IS EVIL NO MATTER HOW YOU LOOK AT IT.
Posted by: Follower of Christ On: 11/24/2008
Comment Title: It's Are Time!
Thank you Rev, Sharpton for visiting our beautiful community. We were so honored to have you as a guest. I agree with your message. God has kept His promise and we are thankful. We are the true children of Israel and have been in the desert for all these years. Brothers and sisters, are time has come!
Posted by: black bird On: 11/24/2008
Comment Title: Big Al
Big Al is using North Augusta as a cover,he is really in town to help New Ellenton Mayor Vernon Dunbar. Turkeys stick together, don't' you know. Sharpton's integrity is above approach, just under Councilwoman Rogers " no more outbursties in this court" Johnny escort them out. Help please!!!!!
Posted by: Lawanda On: 11/24/2008
Comment Title: Sharpton's sermon
The pulpit is a.place to speak about God's word, not as a place to promote Sharpton's organization, no matter how worthwhile it might be. Rev Al never misses a chance to politicize his "sermons" and he is doing religion a disservice by that. He has done much good work, but when he's in a church on a Sunday he should bear in mind that is the time and place for a church service, not a political speech.
Posted by: On: 11/24/2008
Comment Title:
Better check he may be his daddy also check on who pays for the turkey, no pun intended.
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