First Lady Serita Jakes with Ray Cornelius

Written by | Ray Cornelius

First Lady Serita Jakes, wife of mega-church pastor, Bishop T.D. Jakes hosted a ‘Sparkle’ Brunch yesterday at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Atlanta.

The luncheon featured a menu of southern cuisine and was attended by a number of prominent African American women including Elder Bernice King, Judge Glenda Hatchett, Trumpet Awards  founder Xernona Clayton and media/film professionals.

The purpose of the brunch was to thank the city of Atlanta for its continued support of Jakes’ Potter’s House Ministries and its signature conferences such as Woman Thou Art Loosed  and Mega Fest, both of which set record attendance at the Georgia Dome.

It also served as an opportunity to promote the forthcoming film, Sparkle, which is being produced by Bishop Jakes.

According to Mrs. Jakes, Sparkle  is more than just a fictional story about three sisters taking center stage but it’s an opportunity to inspire young women to find their purpose and take hold of their dreams.  The film also serves as a reminder to future generations about the indelible mark African Americans have made in pop music history.

In addition to Mrs. Jakes’ speech, the brunch attendees were treated to a behind-the-scenes video of the film as well as a rousing performance of “His Eye is on the Sparrow” sung by the Atlanta winner of the ‘Sparkle’ Music Competition, Caitlyn Renee. The song is featured on the movie’s soundtrack and is performed by the late Whitney Houston, whose 49th birthday was yesterday.

Check out these amazing photos from the event…

Sparkle Music Competition  (Atlanta Winner) Caitlyn Renee and First Lady Serita Jakes

Elder Bernice King with Ray Cornelius

Derrick M. Williams, Executive VP of T.D. Jakes Films with Ray Cornelius

Judge Glenda Hatchett with Ray Cornelius

Click here to see all of the photos from the Sparkle  Brunch.  Sparkle  opens in theaters Friday, August 17.

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