Congregants and community members packed the First Baptist Church in Spring Valley to remember the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on the 50th anniversary of his death.

The Rev. Weldon McWilliams, the church’s longtime pastor, told News 12 that he attended a meeting with King just a week before he died.

"When I heard about it, it was like a blow,” recalled McWIlliams. “It was hard. It was hard, but we knew the mission and was determined to go on. We get inspired and encouraged from a man like that."

Parishioners told News 12 they will continue to fight for nonviolence and equality as a tribute to King.