After 20-year-old Jameel Clark was murdered Aug. 10 in a parking lot behind Grace Church, Allentown, Pa., members of the parish held a special liturgy to remember Mr. Clark and to stand in solidarity with others who have died violently in Allentown.
 
“As steel and other industries in the Lehigh Valley died in the 20th century the people of Grace made a decision not to abandon the inner city but to stay and make a difference,” said the Rev. Patrick Malloy, who has served as Grace’s rector for seven years. “Grace Church is what it is because of where it is.”
 
On Aug. 24, Deacon Rodney Conn, carrying the Easter candle, led some 80 worshippers from the church to the location where Mr. Clark was murdered. There they read God’s word and prayed for Mr. Clark and others who have died violently in Allentown. Libby House, senior warden, said participants also “recommitted themselves to holding out a corner of grace in a troubled neighborhood.”
 
Two days before the service, The Morning Call newspaper published an op-ed piece by Fr. Malloy reflecting on Mr. Clark’s murder.
 
(The Rev. Canon) Bill Lewellis
 
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