EDWARDSVILLE — Mt. Joy Baptist Church is proud to announce its 40th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Program on Monday, January 19, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Mt. Joy Church, 327 Olive Street, Edwardsville, IL.
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This year’s keynote speaker is Pastor Traci S. Daniels, President of Edwardsville Branch NAACP, Founder and CEO of Visionary Leadership Group, LLC, and a proud member of the Upsilon Phi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Pastor Daniels is also a board member for Her Legacy – A Cougar Collective at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, supporting SIUE Women’s Basketball student-athletes in leadership and achievement. In addition, she serves on multiple nonprofit boards, championing initiatives that strengthen families, local businesses, and community growth.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and a Master of Arts in Strategic Leadership from North Central University. She is currently completing her Ph.D. in Christian Ministry and Leadership at Liberty University, where her dissertation focuses on Navigating Recovery from Toxic Leadership in the Pentecostal Church. Pastor Daniels and her husband, Eric Daniels, reside in Edwardsville, IL.
Pastor Daniel's address will reflect Dr. King’s enduring legacy and the urgent call to action for today’s generation. The program will also highlight the vibrant talents of Mt. Joy’s youth and community performers. “We invite the Greater Edwardsville/Glen Carbon communities to join us in this celebration of faith, freedom, and future,” said Pastor Steve Jackson, pastor of Mt. Joy Baptist Church.
Founded in 1859, Mt. Joy Baptist Church is a foundational pillar within the Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, and greater Metro East religious communities. Over its long history, Mt. Joy has been dedicated to fostering spiritual growth, unity, and service among its congregation and neighbors.
This Program is free to the public and doors open at 9:30 a.m. Immediately following the program a community service event, in partnership with Upsilon Phi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, will take place in the Church Fellowship Hall located in the lower level of the church. Items to donate: TRAVEL SIZE Soap, Deodorant, Shampoo, Conditioner, Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Dental Floss, 16oz bottled Water, Hand Warmers, Socks, Winter Hats, Tampons, Pads, Shaving Cream, Razors, Wash cloths, Dry Snacks, Wet Wipes, Antibacterial Soap, Mask, Gloves, Tea Packet, Vaseline, Non-perishable foods & more.
All participants are encouraged to join this effort, which offers a meaningful way to further honor Dr. King’s legacy through service to others.
