City religious leaders pledge to work with Emanuel
By David Roeder Staff Reporter/droeder@suntimes.com May 15, 2011 9:50PM
Mayor-elect Rahm Emanuel poses for pictures with a group of Chicago area Sikhs, at the Council of religious leaders of Metropolitan Chicago interfaith Luncheon. at the JW marriot, 151 W. Adams on May 15, 2011.l Keith Hale~Sun-Times
Updated: October 16, 2011 12:17AM
On the last day before “elect” drops from his mayor title, Rahm Emanuel joined in prayers and accepted pledges of support Sunday from the city’s religious leaders while stressing the importance of issues affecting children.
At an interfaith luncheon, Emanuel said that while religious and governmental leaders have contrasting roles, both have responsibilities for shaping people’s lives. Public safety and better schools, he said, should be the top concerns for all.
Emanuel expressed thanks for the prayers, but especially for one about the welfare of children. “We need to remember how important our roles are, who we are and what our responsibilities are” to upcoming generations, he said.
He spoke at an event that drew about 500 people to the JW Marriott hotel, 151 W. Adams. It was his only public appearance on the last day before his inauguration Monday.
Organizers said leaders of more than 50 religions were present.
Also honored were Susana Mendoza, who will be the new city clerk, and City Treasurer Stephanie Neely.
All will be sworn in at a ceremony along with the new City Council starting at 10:30 a.m. Monday at the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. Emanuel is expected to take the oath of office and to deliver a speech shortly after noon.
Emanuel promised to consult the religious leaders for “your guidance, your encouragement and, without a doubt, your wisdom.”
A co-organizer of the luncheon, Byron Brazier, pastor of the Apostolic Church of God, prayed that Emanuel exhibit “wisdom and discernment” as mayor.
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