2004: Nippy News Release Articles

Cissy Houston Gets Attention
submitted by: Lisa D.
source: Electronic Urban Report
Date: April 8, 2004

Over one thousand fill church for prayer vigil

Whitney's Mom may just save her life. With all the prayers she received at the prayer vigil, she's sure to be on the road to recovery.

Monday, April 5, some 1,500 people filled Harlem's Abyssinian Baptist Church as part of a vigil for the troubled singer organized by her mother, Cissy Houston.

Earlier this month, with Whitney, 40, and Bobby, 35, in rehab and jail respectively, their troubles had to alarm Cissy Houston to prompt her to call for the prayer vigil. Especially after Whitney checked herself out of what was supposed to be a month-long treatment after five days.

"Lord, you know where Whitney is tonight," the Rev. Al Sharpton told the crowd. "I ask you to touch her."

He continued: "I don't know where she is, I don't know her circumstance, but I know you knew her before she was an idea in her parents' brains. You touched her vocal cords, and you put a sweetness in her throat."

Although Whitney was mentioned several times, the service was intended for all who have fallen prey to drugs or alcohol.

Cissy Houston, 60, sat in the front row of the church, spoke briefly but did not mention her celebrity daughter by name.

"Mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, loved ones -- your prayers have gone out to those afflicted with misery and greed," she said. "This day we choose strength, love, honor, compassion and reverence. We vow to reach out to God the father almighty. We stand together in hope of the possibilities of healing all our children, our loved ones who are suffering. I am touched by your presence and your support."

At the conclusion of service, the Rev. Calvin Butts, pastor of the Abyssinian Church, led the congregation in a benediction before the closing hymn, during which he shouted several times: "Please pray for Whitney and for Bobby tonight!"