Presented by Sr. Jolyn Walker
Join us for a powerful and uplifting Spiritual Juneteenth Program as we honor the legacy of our ancestors, celebrate liberation, and embrace the spirit of resilience and faith. This special gathering will feature inspiring prayers and historical reflections, highlighting the "Grandmother of Juneteenth". This is a message of hope rooted in the journey toward freedom.
Through gentle movement, spoken word, and community fellowship, we will reflect on the enduring strength of the African American spirit and the divine presence that has guided generations toward justice and equality. This event fosters community by creating a community circle inviting participants to engage in a *drum circle and cultural dance.
*Drums will be provided for up to 12 participants. If there are more or others who choose not to drum, they can use other instruments that will be available.
Together, we will rejoice in the triumphs of the past, find encouragement for the present, and seek divine wisdom for the future.
Come prepared to worship, celebrate, and uplift one another in the spirit of unity and liberation. All are welcome to this sacred and joyous occasion!
COST | $25
We’re honored to offer scholarship opportunities to programs and retreats, creating opportunities for everyone. Please call (860) 567-3163 to find out more.
The health and safety of our guests and staff are of paramount importance to us. We follow the COVID-19 guidelines provided by the State of Connecticut and the CDC. If Wisdom House is forced to close to comply with the guidelines issued by the State of Connecticut or the CDC, we will return all funds received to date.
Sister Jolyn Walker Influenced by her parents who taught her family the value of community service and giving back, for Jolyn Walker, this means to serve as a role model for compassion and service. She strives to make the world a better place in her community and beyond. As a long time, member of First Baptist Church in Milford, Jolyn served as Praise Dance Ministry Leader for 17 years. She also served as, Sunday School Superintendent, and Church School Instructor, the church’s Administrative Assistant and Vacation Bible School Activities Leader.
Additionally, as a member of First Baptist’s Missionary Society, Jolyn led diaper drives for New Haven Healthy Start Diaper Bank. Retiring in 2023, Jolyn held the position of Administration Officer for The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven. Her time at The Foundation spans seventeen (17) years and in 2019 she was the recipient of The Spirit of The Foundation Award, (it reads)"as one who embodies the values of The Foundation. Her integrity, devotion, respect for the dignity of all, belief, and dedication to our mission, represents the best of us.".
Prior to that Jolyn was employed at Choate Rosemary Hall in Wallingford, Connecticut for fifteen years as a Development Office Coordinator and African Dance Teacher. As a life-long dancer, she taught traditional African Dance for 15 years at Choate Rosemary Hall in Wallingford, Connecticut as well as serve as the co-lead for the school’s annual Kwanzaa celebrations.
Jolyn served as Director for the National Liturgical Dance Network (CT Chapter). As member of Milford’s General Federation of Women Clubs, Jolyn led many fund raisers for Christian Community Action. She served as “Make a Difference Day” Leader serving seniors at local nursing homes as well as assisting youth in acquiring community service credits. Jolyn also served as a member and presenter for Milford’s Church Women United.
Most recently Jolyn’s commitment to Milford and its surrounding communities led her to be appointed Chair for Milford’s Racial Justice Book Club. Jolyn also shares her love for the African American cultural celebrations of Kwanzaa and Juneteenth. She shares the celebrations mainly at local libraries. Jolyn and her late husband, Judge Herbert Walker set up a donor advised fund at The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven. The fund is also named in part after her father. The Washington-Walker Family Fund supports local organizations who serves those in need of immediate shelter, food, or other basic needs.
Jolyn was born and raised in Harlem, New York the sixth of nine children. She was married to the late Judge H. Walker, and the mother of three sons and two grandchildren. Her Middle and High school years were spent in the East New York Section of Brooklyn, New York where she was active in dance, cheerleaders, and gymnastics. In Connecticut, she attended Albertus Magnus College where she received her degree in Business Management