Raul Maysonet is expected to share his testimony of hope and faith at the 44th annual Battle Creek Community Prayer Breakfast, according to a community announcement. The event, themed “Out of the Dugout, Into the Light,” is scheduled for 7:25–9 a.m. May 5 at Kellogg Arena in downtown Battle Creek. Tickets cost $20 and are available at bcprayerbreakfast.org or at the Battle Creek Community Foundation, 32 W. Michigan Ave. Maysonet, a youth mentor involved with Hood Church and The Hope House Aftercare, will deliver the “This I Believe” speech. His story includes overcoming a difficult childhood, personal loss, mental illness, depression and addiction. “Prayer is the very lifeline that has carried me through the hardest moments of my life,” Maysonet said in the announcement.
Darryl Strawberry to keynote
Former MLB star Darryl Strawberry is scheduled to deliver the keynote address. Strawberry, who hit 335 home runs during his 17-year career and won four World Series rings, has spoken openly about his struggles with addiction and how faith helped him find peace, according to the announcement. Strawberry has authored several books, including “Another Life,” “Turn Your Season Around” and “Straw: Finding My Way.” Those who donate $100 or more to the event are expected to receive an invitation for two to a meet-and-greet reception with Strawberry on May 4 at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.
Event to feature music, scripture and prayer
The Battle Creek Community Prayer Breakfast is modeled after the National Prayer Breakfast and typically draws more than 1,000 attendees, including several hundred students from Calhoun County schools. This year’s program is expected to include: Prelude music by the worship team from Victory Life Church A performance of “Amazing Grace” by Walter Williams Old Testament reading by Robin Boltz New Testament reading by Dominic and Olivia Oo Prayers led by Doug Haywood, Lori Haywood-Mains and Asia Graham Sign language interpreters will be available.
Event supported by volunteers and donations
The Battle Creek Community Prayer Breakfast began in 1982 when Dr. Russell Mawby, Dr. Paul Gieser and Col. Ben Gomez expanded a Federal Center employee prayer breakfast to include the broader community. The event is organized by volunteers and funded through donations. Contributions help cover costs and allow students to attend for free. Donations can be made online at bcprayerbreakfast.org or at the Battle Creek Community Foundation. For more information, email prayerbreakfast@bccfoundation.org or call 269-962-2181.
Originally published at battlecreekenquirer.com