The final preparations are ongoing for the Chicago services for the late Jesse Jackson.
Powerful praises and songs of worship are planned for Friday.
The final preparations are ongoing for Jesse Jackson's Chicago services.
On Thursday, delegations of dignitaries, media and those close to Rev. Jesse Jackson gathered at the House of Hope on Chicago's Far South Side in preparation for the public service for the civil rights icon.
There are many details to refine: The security, staging and decor will be orchestrated, as well.
There were rehearsals Thursday for co-officiants Rev. James Meeks and Pastor Charles Jenkins.
"It's so beautiful that so many people want to be a part of this service to celebrate and give. Rev Jackson spent decades going to the people; now the people are coming to him and it's a massive undertaking," family friend Jenkins said.
Rev. Charlie Dates is the lead pastor for Salem Baptist Church, which worships at the House of Hope.
"Hope is the message of Rev. Jesse Jackson, how providential it would be that he would be celebrated at the house that bears the name of his message," Dates said.
The service Friday is intended to celebrate Jackson's life with many examples of his accomplishments and how he influenced things big and small in a mission to make the world fairer for all.
Chicagoan event planner and founder of the Black Women's Expo Merry Green is among those on the host committee.
"There are so many of us they brought in locally that know Rev. Jackson, that know the family, that know PUSH," Green said.
A local floral designer answered a call for help with flowers and plants in browns and beiges to honor Rev. Jackson.
"It's definitely one of the most important events, being able to serve the family in this way, knowing that he was a man of service," Christianna Tucker said.