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TRIADELPHIA -- A Triadelphia pastor will join faith leaders from across the country in Washington this week to help celebrate America’s 250th birthday, taking part in an interfaith service at the nation’s cathedral.
Pastor Mike Palmer of Triadelphia United Methodist Church will speak during the Interfaith Celebration at the National Cathedral at 10 a.m. Friday. The ceremony will be streamed on YouTube.
Palmer estimated about 10 pastors will participate. Each will be given a prepared script to read.
"We are going to read some readings and prayers they will have prepared," he said. "If I do (have to provide words) I will do what I always do and just let the Holy Spirit lead and guide me."
Palmer planned to leave the Wheeling area early Thursday morning, get settled in the nation’s capital and spend some time sightseeing. It will be his first visit to Washington, D.C., and he will be accompanied by his daughter.
Last year, Palmer was among those who helped residents affected by the June 14 flooding in Triadelphia and Valley Grove.
His name was submitted for recognition through The Courage Project, a national initiative honoring individuals and organizations “for everyday acts that take a principled stand in the face of adversity.” As a result, Palmer received a grant to continue assisting flood victims.
He said The Courage Project is among the organizations sponsoring the Interfaith Celebration, which led to his invitation.
"What I hope is that people understand the truth and reality of what God is," Palmer said. "It is something that is not just in the books. He actually is who he is, and he takes care of us. He has brought me through a lot of things, and by putting me in this he wants me to show the truth in loving God.
"As we pray together, it doesn't matter what religion or background you come from. We are all children of God, and this illustrates that by being an interfaith service."
Palmer said the opportunity is both an honor and a privilege.
"I hope I serve well," Palmer continued. "It's the role of God, and we're all equal. Even if we have different thoughts, we're all equal in his eyes.
"He controls everything, and he uses whoever he needs to use. I'm just a simple down-to-earth country boy."