Patti LaBelle Joins NY Seminary to Honor City's 'Urban Angels'
NEW YORK – One of the oldest theological seminaries in the nation honored some of New York's most devoted ministry and community leaders at the 4th Annual "Urban Angel" Awards Gala this Tuesday.
The event – which was held at the renowned New York Marriott Marquis Hotel in Times Square and sponsored by the New York Theological Seminary – awarded those notable community leaders from the worlds of religion, business, education, and philanthropy who have made a large contribution to the world. Also among the award bearers was Grammy R&B legend Patti LaBelle who presented one of the nights honors to evangelist Mary Ida Vandross, mother to Luther Vandross.
The banquet reception was a way in which to exemplify how people are shaping the city as well as raise money for the host seminary's scholarship program and other core activities.
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"We live in a world where hope is too hard to find sometimes," explained Dr. Dale T. Irving, president of New York Theological Seminary, at the gala. "Tonight, we celebrate the accomplishments of many people…. We thank them for making the world a bit more how God wants it."
As the leading spokesperson for the Diabetes Awareness and for her work as a nationwide evangelist and witness, Vandross was given her award by the soul diva LaBelle. The awardee - who lost her husband, grandson, and three children to the disease - has made a large impact in protecting the African-American community from the threat of diabetes.
"Actually, she lost all her children, and she adopted me," said LaBelle at the event press conference. "She's always worried about my diabetes. She's just a wonderful woman…. She prays for me. She makes me feel lifted.
"She's the strongest woman I've ever known," added the eight-time Grammy winner. "She's an angel."
Among other prize recipients were the following people:
Elder Byung Ik Lee – a prisoner of war for 3 years during the Korean War having a major influence with mission work inside of the school systems.
Hong Eun Lee – Elder Byung Ik Lee's wife as well as a previous cancer patient who overcame her diagnosis and is now cancer free.
Quesos La Ricura – a business set up by Ester Pacheco, Noris Cruz, Gumercindo Cruz, and Vicente Sirias that has aided in youth leadership and played a critical role in readying Hispanics for the work force.
Dr. Arthur Caliandro – involved in preparing Harlem students towards a college education in addition to being a chief source of getting ministry material into print and media.
The Rev. Dr. James A. Forbes – the first African American to serve as senior minister at Riverside Church, one of the largest multiracial congregations in the nation. He was also listed as one of the "most effective preachers" in the English-speaking world by Newsweek.
The night also included a performance by the Addicts Rehabilitation Center (ARC) Gospel Choir, which is comprised completely of former drug abusers.
