Many have heard of “Bloody Sunday,” March 7, 1965, when hundreds marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, calling for justice and equal rights.
On February 16, 2026, another bridge became the setting for a powerful moment of unity.
More than 550 community members and faith leaders from across the St. Louis metropolitan area gathered for the “Rally to Bridge Faith and Justice.” Together, they marched across the Martin Luther King Bridge, which connects St. Louis, Missouri, and East St. Louis, Illinois, spanning the Mississippi River.
While Dr. King was not physically present, his legacy was evident. Unlike the Edmund Pettus Bridge—named after a Confederate general associated with the Ku Klux Klan—the bridge in St. Louis bears the name of Dr. King, a minister who devoted his life to faith, justice, and equality. The march reflected those same values, bringing together people of different ethnic backgrounds, ages, and faith traditions.
Central States Conference assistant to the president for the Eastern Federation, Pastor Trevor Barnes Jr., and Pastor B.T. Rice, a longtime Seventh-day Adventist pastor in St. Louis and respected community faith leader, were actively involved in planning the peaceful demonstration. Known for decades of ministry and community service, Rice has worked closely with church and civic leaders to support spiritual outreach and community advocacy across the region.
“It’s wonderful to see Adventists present at this important rally,” said Barnes.
“As Adventists, we believe a time of trouble is coming in the future, but many people are experiencing a time of trouble right now. We cannot focus only on ourselves. Loving our neighbors means we are morally bound to stand with those who are struggling. If we hope others will support us in our time of need, we must also be willing to support them in theirs. After all, what we do for the least of these, we do for Jesus.”
The day carried a sober tone as participants united in prayer, responding to the ongoing immigration crisis and the impact of policies affecting families seeking safety and opportunity. For many, the march was both a public witness and a spiritual appeal—asking God to guide leaders and bring justice.
Members of St. Louis Adventist Ministries (SLAM) were also present, standing alongside their community and church leaders. Their presence reflected the ongoing commitment of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in St. Louis, along with the Central States Conference, to stand with their communities in prayer, compassion, and a call for justice rooted in faith.
As voices lifted in prayer and footsteps crossed the bridge together, the message was clear: faith continues to call people to stand for justice, unity, and hope.
View news report from FIRST ALERT 4.
