Bishop Murry to open Men’s Rally

January 15, 2011 at 12:00a.m.

By LINDA M. LINONIS

youngstown

Bishop George V. Murry of the Diocese of Youngstown will open the second annual Men’s Rally in the Valley on May 7 at the Covelli Centre. He will give an opening prayer and remarks.

Bob Popa, president of Bob Popa Entertainment and radio personality, will the event’s host.

Walter “Bing” Newton, retired Salem High School teacher and track coach, is lead organizer. “I listen to the Lord,” Newton said of the choice of the bishop. Newton also leads Jesus “The Key” Ministry.

Dan Pecchia, rally communications team, said Bishop Murry was asked because of his reputation as an “excellent speaker.” And, his presence will reach out to Catholic men who are part of the Christian community.

Newton also credited the Lord with inspiration for the theme of “Men at the Cross.” “Our speakers will challenge men to embrace the humility, sacrifice and victory of the cross, just as Jesus invited us to do,” he said. “We’re very excited about joining thousands of men from a range of Christian backgrounds to focus on the cross of Christ. It will be powerful.”

Newton said the success of the first event led to the second. “Last year’s event was incredible and the calls for another conference in 2011 were overwhelming,” he said. “I’ve never seen so many men in the Valley focused on Christ.”

Last year, 3,500 men attended; Newton is praying for 6,500 this spring. He added that the rally brought together fathers and sons who shared “growing spiritually.”

Newton said he believes God is “speaking to the Valley” and “seeing it heal.” And as that happens, so do more positive things in the Valley.

The Rev. David Moncrief, pastor at Triedstone Baptist Church, is on the planning team. “The most manly thing any man can do is stand strong as a man of God,” the Rev. Mr. Moncrief said. “When you have thousands of men at an event like this, and they’re from diverse denominations and ages and colors and neighborhoods, there’s tremendous encouragement. We’re looking forward to encouraging one another on a grand scale.”

The rally will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Six speakers and three music groups will be announced later this month.

Visit www.mensrally.org for details.