On Sunday, June 21 during the 11 a.m. service at Mt. Friendship AME Church, John L. Williams – known as JL to many – will be preaching. The former professional basketball player, who played in South America, has traveled internationally inspiring people to succeed against the odds.
Born to a teenage mother and a father whom he didn’t meet until age 12, JL was identified by the educational system as having “special needs.” He was placed in a special education class.
“I was talked down to,” he said. “I was deeply hurt by the system that should have taught me self-empowerment. They didn’t understand how to interact with children like me. I had to overcome the labels of the educational system, the abandonment of my father, and the voice of peers who were trying to pull me down the wrong path.”
Fortunately, JL found a safe haven in Eleanor Bratton, whom he calls Aunt Mommy.
“She was the most impactful person in my life,” said JL. “She taught me a lot about spirituality. Through her example and conversations about overcoming obstacles, she taught me how to connect with God and find a place of refuge when I felt unworthy, confused, and abandoned.”
As a result of JL’s experience he established Save the Seed, Inc., a non-profit youth personal development and motivational program. He provides a safe and positive atmosphere for young people to find alternatives to everyday problems such as peer pressure, educational challenges, labels, and abandonment.
JL and his wife, Whitney have two beautiful daughters, and live in New Castle.
Also participating in this special service on Sunday will be Charles Madden, Executive Director of the Hope Commission; Dr. Jack Milligan, Internal Medicine; and Dr. Paul Bryant, Vice President for Student Affairs at Delaware State University. Rev. Shirley M. Smith of Dover is the pastor.
The church’s address is 1761 Mt. Friendship Road, Smyrna, just south of Wheatley’s Pond Road (Route 300), between Clayton and Kenton.
For more information call Renee at 736-5131.
SMYRNA, Del. —
