Community Is Love has mission of bringing old memories togetherto create new beginnings

By Sabrina Bates

It started from shared memories and reminiscing about days gone by. Those memories spilled out into a missionto bring the community back together in unity.

Dave Metcalf and Dwight Herman were talking about the good ole days that surround Southside Corinth and Johns Street Park. They have fond memories of gathering in the park, shooting hoops, playing softball and fellowshipping into the night.

The park was the heart of the neighborhood, where friendships turned into brother and sisterhoods. It wasn't uncommon to find the area full of youth - from sun up until long after the sun set.

"We see a lot of the new generation that don't enjoy the park like we did. We just want to bring some love back to the community and show that there is still a lot of love on Southside," the pair shared.

That message of love turned into an organization whose mission is to spread love into the community, and in the words of Metcalf and Herman - "what is a community without love?"

And with that premise, Community Is Love was formed and the group held its first-ever Community Love Day on June 10 in Edward S. Bishop Memorial Park.

The event was blessed with success as approximately 200-250 people turned out. From the young to the young at heart and every age in between, community members enjoyed four-wheeler rides, bouncy houses, area vendors, music and food grilled by Roderick Herman.

The event was three-fold: to bring the community back together in unity, to help raise money for the Boys and Girls Club and help raise money for the Corinth Chargers. The pair and the many volunteers that helped put together Community Love Day accomplished all three goals.

Local first responders, police officers and the fire department were also on hand, bringing equipment for children to get a closer look and sharing the spirit of the day.

"We stand behind the vision of building great futures

Welcome Home!

On behalf of Patterson Memorial Chapel, we extend our warmest greetings as you return to the loving embrace of your hometown. It brings us immense joy to see you once again within these sacred walls, where cherished memories reside and hearts are nourished.

Your presence has been greatly missed, and we are thrilled to have you back home, enveloped by the familiar comfort and tranquility of this cherished place. The echoes of your laughter and prayers have lingered, eagerly awaiting your return.

In your absence, our prayers have carried you, uplifting your spirit and keeping you close in thought and heart. Upon your return, let us gather, share stories, and offer support, waiting patiently for the day we can celebrate your homecoming again.

Let the candles flicker with joy as we reunite, and let the hymns of gratitude resound throughout the streets of Corinth. Together, we shall continue to foster a sense of community, compassion, and faith that has always been the essence of Patterson Memorial Chapel.

As you settle back into the embrace of your home, may you find peace and serenity in the moments of reflection, and may your faith be fortified, leading you to a path of love, kindness, and service.

Once again, welcome home, dear friends. May your presence grace this sacred space, and may Patterson Memorial Chapel always be a sanctuary that embraces you.

With open hearts and sincere blessings, Patterson Memorial Chapel for our kids, our club, and our community! It is with love, gratitude, and respect that we will continue to support and honor those who consistently make a difference in our city. This event is dedicated to the citizens of Corinth, MS. Bring love back home," organizers shared.

Metcalf and Herman said they started as friends and became brothers.

"We've got to establish that again. We got to be more than friends; we've got to be brothers. And the way we get that done is by uplifting one another," they shared.

The group hopes to coordinate the Community Love Day annually. Look for future event announcements on the group's Facebook page, Community Is Love, as they continue their work of creating space "where old memories collide with new beginnings."

And to all who showed up and showed out for the event, Metcalf and Herman say, "THANK YOU! Thank you for showing up in love and unity to make the day beautiful. Your smiling faces, laughter and prayers made this all possible! … We hope that this day was refreshing, rewarding, and the beginning of all things new for everyone in attendance. We look forward to the next opportunity to gather together in LOVE."

They stressed that it would not have been possible without all of the people who stepped up and were willing to do whatever was needed to help carry the load, emphasizing that spirit is the true beauty of community.