On Saturday,  Jan. 14, the Merry Barn Writers’ Retreat will celebrate the life and words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Join us from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., as we read “Martin’s Big Words” by Doreen Rappaport, and discuss the influence Dr. King continues to have on our lives.

After the read aloud, participants will create collages and heart maps to represent the worlds of their dreams, honoring Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, delivered on the steps of Lincoln Memorial, as part of the March on Washington, in August of 1963. 

This event embraces the King Center’s 2023 strategic theme of Cultivating a Beloved Community Mindset: “The Beloved Community is a place where each person finds what inspires them to make the world a better place. More importantly, it is where everyone has an opportunity to live and grow. We know that we all can contribute to making the world better, but we have to know that it starts with each of us taking a stand and finding our voice in the world.” For more information on the work of the King Center, visit https://thekingcenter.org/.

Inspired by a new theme each month, Community Literacy Events at the Merry Barn are gatherings that highlight creativity through reading, writing, and the arts. Read alouds, engaging projects, and tasty treats, bring together folks from diverse generations and backgrounds. These events are free and open to the public.

The Merry Barn Writers’ Retreat is located at 417 River Road in Edgecomb. Find us online at www.merrybarn.com or on Instagram @merrybarnmaine. Reach out with any questions: stephaniemcsherry@merrybarn.com.