Macon-Bibb County Hosts Mayor’s Council of Clergy Luncheon, Highlights Community Progress

Macon-Bibb County convened its first Mayor’s Council of Clergy Luncheon of 2024 on Thursday, February 8, at the Tubman African American Museum. The gathering featured remarks from Mayor Lester Miller and several prominent religious leaders, including Reverend Jason McClendon, Pastor Sara Pugh Montgomery, and others.

According to Dr. Henry Ficklin, Executive Director of Community Affairs, Mayor Miller’s administration values these meetings as crucial opportunities to engage with religious leaders on community issues. Dr. Ficklin emphasized the importance of dialogue and collaboration to address challenges and leverage resources effectively.

During the luncheon, Mayor Miller provided updates on county developments, highlighting Macon-Bibb’s recent receipt of the Visionary City Award for Macon Violence Prevention (MVP) and a notable 43% reduction in the homicide rate over the past year. Mayor Miller attributed these achievements to collective efforts and urged continued cooperation.

The Council of Clergy Luncheon serves as a bi-monthly forum for local faith leaders to address concerns affecting their congregations and the broader community. It fosters networking opportunities among ministers and organizations dedicated to promoting peace and justice initiatives.