McClurkin-Led Gathering to Draw Over 15,000 to Long Island

Church and community leaders are coming together once again to tear the walls of division and promote unity. The mission is to break down cultural, racial, and denominational barriers and make an impact spiritually.

Church leaders will come together to tear down walls of division at the second annual New York Call, which drew over 12,000 people last year.

This year, over 130 churches are preparing for the joint outdoor church service at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow, N.Y.

“This has proven to be a great gathering,” stated Donnie McClurkin, the multi award-winning, internationally-recognized gospel singer.

McClurkin, who also pastors Perfecting Faith Church in Freeport, N.Y., had envisioned the New York Call some years ago before it became a reality last year.

“In 2004 we had a tremendous turn out,” he said. “People from all walks of life-white, black, yellow, brown and red convened at Eisenhower Park. Acquaintances were made that will last a lifetime. We’re anticipating this year to be greater by far."

McClurkin believes the church building – usually covered by brick, stone, and glass – only deters people from entering. He declared that a church is not just a building, but a people.

"We have done a disservice to God. We have called the church a building," he said. "He didn't die for the building, but because we have put so much credence in the building, [we rarely evangelize]."

According to eByrd Communications, McClurkin’s mission is to break down cultural, racial, and denominational barriers and make an impact spiritually.

"We will gather the body of Christ together, gather the churches, the Christians, and declare that we are united and linked, regardless of race, creed, church, or denomination. And evangelize the New York area like we never got to before."

This year, New York Call expanded from its original service format to include youth and family activities.

The event will feature the Harlem Wizards; the Tiger Schulman Karate Exhibition; former Jets running back, Freeman McNeil; former Superbowl Champion, Charles Mann; Sony BMG recording artist, Tye Tribbett; a Russian Worship Team; and the Immanuel Dance Center.

Guest speakers are Bishop Robert Rochford, Pastor Jim Cymbala, Bishop Jasper Rolle, and Pastor Benny Hinn.

In addition, the American Heart Association and the North Shore Partnership for Healthy Communities/Nassau County Health Division will provide free Blood Pressure/Glucose Screening from 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.