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In 2001, The National Black Catholic Congress
launched an initiative in partnership with the Diocese of Lansing, Michigan
and the American National Red Cross. This initiative, "The Blood of
Martyrs", was launched in honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. "The
Blood of the Martyrs Program" was implemented by Ronald Landfair and the
American Red Cross in the Diocese of Lansing, Michigan to demonstrate an
alternative way of celebrating the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday by not
just attending breakfasts and conferences, but by donating blood to the
American Red Cross, in honor of a man who shed his blood for justice and
unity; giving blood for the cause!
Ronald Landfair, Director of the Office of Black
Catholic Ministry and organizer for the "Blood of Martyrs" program remarked,
"What made this event special, was that people of all backgrounds could come
together for the sole purpose of doing something meaningful and needed for
other people, whom they will never know. This was a living witness to King's
dream, and the legacy that he left." Assisted by numerous volunteers,
Landfair added, "Imagine what kind of message we could send if this happened
in every community in our country!"
It is suggested that each Diocese begin to plan
early for the 2003 Blood drive so that a major impact can be made throughout
the country to give real meaning for the reason we celebrate the life of Dr.
King.
Next: How to plan for a Martin Luther King, Jr.
Event!!!
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