Pasadena Faith Leaders Hold Pre-Rose Parade Prayer Event

Faith leaders from across Greater Pasadena united for an interfaith prayer gathering ahead of the 136th Tournament of Roses Parade. The fourth annual Faith Leaders Unite event brought together approximately 100 clergy members to bless the community and parade at its starting point on Orange Grove Boulevard.

“We are thrilled by the enthusiastic response from Faith Leaders in our community to join together once again. We believe it is our privilege and responsibility to go ahead of this community in celebration of and prayer for the flourishing of all people in Greater Pasadena and beyond,” said Pastor Mayra Macedo-Nolan, Executive Director of the Clergy Community Coalition.

The event, co-sponsored by the Clergy Community Coalition and the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance, represented more than half of the area’s 250 faith communities.

It began with a breakfast at Maranatha High School, followed by public prayers at the Tournament of Roses headquarters at Wrigley Mansion.

“The Faith Leaders Unite Prayer Event is a beautiful reflection of Pasadena’s strength and unity. As we usher in the New Year with the world watching, this gathering of faith leaders from across our community reminds us of the power of shared hope and prayer to inspire and uplift. I am grateful for the Clergy Community Coalition and the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance for leading this tradition, which underscores the values of collaboration, compassion, and diversity that make Pasadena truly special. May this event set the tone for a year of peace, progress, and prosperity for all,” said Mayor Victor Gordo.

“Each new year, The Tournament of Roses Parade and Rose Bowl Game usher in opportunity for the world to celebrate together; new hopes and great expectations for peace and goodwill. Starting the year in prayer and gratitude across the different faiths demonstrates our unity and belief that even a global pandemic would not deter or our community celebration from marching on!” said Assemblymember Chris Holden.

“We are so blessed to have the faith leaders of Pasadena come together to pray in the New Year for our community! We at Maranatha are thankful to be a small part of making this event happen on our campus. Prayer is the most powerful resource known to mankind: what a great way to end the year and pray in the new year together!” said Maranatha Head of School Matt Ketterling.

The program included a Land Welcome ceremony by leaders of the Gabrieleno (Tongva) Band of Mission Indians and prayers from local clergy. Participants then proceeded to the intersection of Orange Grove and Colorado Boulevards for concluding prayers.

“Although we are internationally known for the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game, which happens once a year, the Pasadena Tournament of Roses prides itself in celebrating the diverse cultures, values, and beliefs of our outstanding community on parade day and beyond. The parade theme, Turning the Corner, serves as our guide as we continue to rise above, stay focused, and keep the faith that the promise of a New Year remains,” said 2023 Pasadena Tournament of Roses President Amy Wainscott.

“Through the 2nd Annual Faith Leaders Unite Prayer Event, the community has an opportunity for a fresh start, turning the corner together with hope and celebration to unlock the unlimited potential this new year,” Wainscott added.

The public prayer service began at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 31 at 391 S. Orange Grove and concluded at noon. While organized primarily for faith leaders, the event welcomed public attendance.

The Clergy Community Coalition, which helped organize the event, is a network of local faith, nonprofit and civic leaders working toward a more safe, just and prosperous Greater Pasadena.

For more information, visit www.clergycommynitycoalition.org.