Holy Convocation Returns to Memphis: A Celebration of Faith and Community
MEMPHIS, Tenn. – It’s that time of year again! The city has welcomed back the 116th annual Holy Convocation, a heartwarming gathering that brings followers of the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) together for a week of celebration, reflection, and, of course, a little bit of fun. This long-standing tradition not only reinforces the bonds of faith but also makes its mark on the vibrant city of Memphis.
A Moment to Connect
This fabulous event is a homecoming of sorts for thousands of believers. โFellowship when they come, spirituality, budgets, all the things that make a worldwide organization work. So we need all of us here for those purposes,โ shares Bishop Allen David Hall, a general board member for COGIC, who encapsulates the spirit of the gathering. It’s not just about worship; it’s about connection, collaboration, and pushing the mission of faith forward.
An Economic Boost for Memphis
But donโt think itโs all holy hymns and joyful noisesโthis convocation also brings a major economic boost to Memphis. William Guy, owner of Magic Hands Shoe Shine, highlights the positive impact. โIt does a lot for the city; they generate so much revenue for so many businesses and all types of businessesโthe hotels, the car rentals, food chains,โ he explained. With vendors setting up shop and the cityโs hospitality sector bustling, Memphis truly feels the love from visitors.
Vincent has been in the shoe shining business for nearly 30 years, ensuring that boots and lace-ups look their best for the countless attendees. Reflecting on his journey, he said, โShining shoes my first job when I was 13 and I fell in love with it. Over the last 28 years, weโve trained and mentored anywhere from 30 to 50 youth.โ Now thatโs a real community leader right there!
More Than Just a Gathering
While the Holy Convocation is filled with activities and events showcasing the rich culture of the COGIC community, thereโs an underlying message of responsibility and action that attendees are encouraged to uphold. Bishop Hall shared concerns surrounding gun violence, emphasizing a need for responsible gun ownership in the state. โRight now, Iโd like to see more attention from the state to this specific thingโ not anti-second amendment, noโ but if youโre going to carry a gun, you gotta be responsible,โ he stated emphatically.
Thereโs tangible hope for change here too. With recent discussions with the governorโs office and conversations surrounding Memphisโ new gun referendum, Bishop Hall is advocating for tighter regulations. โSecure it. Discipline. Lock it down. Do the things necessary so that people are not killed or injured with and by people with frivolous use or storage principles or lack thereof, with these weapons,โ he notes. Itโs a powerful sentiment that weighs heavily on many community membersโ minds.
The Future of Holy Convocation in Memphis
As the Holy Convocation makes its spirited return to Memphis this year, whatโs next? The future of the event beyond 2025 remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Bishop Hall is all about the Bluff City. His commitment shines brightly as he reflects on the joy and unity this annual event brings and the rich history it represents.
So, for all those believers gathering in Memphis, it isn’t just about tradition; itโs about community bonding, joy, responsibility, and a commitment to making the world a better place. Hereโs to a week of warmth, spirituality, and perhaps a shiny new pair of shoes to go along with the blessings!
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
