MLK Celebration Event - Jan 17th, 2026
JOIN US AT FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ON SATURDAY, JANUARY 17, AT 6PM FOR NASHUA’S PREMIERE INTERFAITH MLK
Once again, FBC will host NH’s oldest annual tribute to the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. The first Martin Luther King celebration was sponsored at the church in 1982 at the request of The Council for Civil Rights of New Hampshire. At that time, First Baptist Church of Nashua was the only church in the state willing to host this event. And thus began the history of the church’s annual MLK celebrations, which have featured many celebrated keynote speakers, including the Rev. Jessie Jackson, Liz Walker, former anchor of WBZ-TV, and Bishop Regina Shearer of the Platters singing group fame; many of the finest local gospel choirs and soloists; and an array of local representatives from many faiths and political positions.
The Rev. Cheryl Harris will be returning as the dynamic keynote speaker at this year’s annual interfaith event. Rev. Harris is an ordained American Baptist minister, retired pastor, author, and leadership coach whose preaching and ministry are rooted in deep listening, justice, joy, and spiritual courage. She holds a Master of Divinity from Boston University School of Theology and a B.A. in English Literature from Emmanuel College.
The celebration, “Out of Darkness, Into the Marvelous Light!” will take place at 6:00 pm on Saturday, January 17. The event will be hosted by First Baptist Church of Nashua’s pastor, The Rev. Dr. Akum Longchar, and will include greetings from representatives at Temple Beth Abraham ,the Islamic Society of Greater Nashua, the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, and the Nashua Area Interfaith Council, as well as greetings and a proclamation on behalf of the City of Nashua from Mayor Jim Donchess.
This 44th annual tribute to the late MLK, Jr. will feature lively performances by The First Baptist Church Choir, The NH Gay Men’s Chorus, The Nashua Interfaith Chorus, and a solo featuring Julia Leonard. Refreshments will be served following the celebration; childcare will be available. The building is handicap accessible and includes free on-site parking; shuttle service and additional parking at Pennichuck Junior High School will be available starting at 4:30 PM.
Admission is free and open to the public.
