Prayer and Pen

Prayer and Pen is a guiding light that should be in every home. Frances Toni Draper has produced a masterpiece including over 100 prayers written by her grandfather, the incomparable Carl Murphy. Included also are archival images and articles from the historical AFRO newspaper which his father founded. Generations later, the prayers and work of the Murphy family still deliver to our community, news and information not covered by other media outlets. Kudos to Toni! -- Cathy Hughes, founder & chair, Urban One Inc. Welcome to an insightful behind the scenes look at how an American visionary rose to prominence in a segregated era and at a time of great racial upheaval and transformation in US history. Through her eyes, Rev. Dr. Draper chronicles the journalistic road map and persistence of publisher Carl Murphy, from the Great Depression through the nation’s Civil Rights Movement. For the reader, over four decades of conversations and never before shared prayers supported by amazing archival materials and commentary weave together the fascinating servant life of Carl Murphy. -- Kweisi Mfume Through a beautiful tapestry of historical detail, childhood reminiscences, and unpublished prayers, Frances Murphy Draper offers a fascinating and inspiring look at the spiritual and family life of her grandfather Carl Murphy, one of the 20th century’s most intriguing public figures. -- Margot Lee Shetterly, author of Hidden Figures Frances ‘Toni’ Draper’s writing evokes warmth in the soul and imparts wisdom to the mind. Each chapter is steeped in the richness of heritage, godly legacy, and integrity. With the flip of the first pages, it is apparent that these prayers are a holy baton carefully crafted and intentionally passed from one generation to the next. They are weighty, meaningful, and full of the Holy Spirit. Gratefully, this baton has now been extended and offered to us. I encourage you to grab hold, hang on tight, and don’t let go. -- Priscilla Shirer, author and speaker With the publication of Prayer and Pen, Rev. Frances Murphy Draper has offered a powerful testament to the enduring strength of faith and journalism in the face of adversity. This remarkable collection offers an intimate glimpse into Carl Murphy’s spiritual journey as he navigated some of the most tumultuous periods in our history as a people in America. This book is timely as it serves as both an inspiration and a call to action, reminding us of the power of prayer and the written word to effect change, and urging us to remain focused and committed to social justice. Prayer and Pen is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the intersection of faith, journalism, and racial realities in America’s past and present. -- Bishop W. Darin Moore, 99th bishop in succession of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, “The Freedom Church” Through Prayer and Pen Dr. Draper reveals the power of unyielding faith and steadfast courage during war and peace. As a crucial element of my advocacy for the 6888th Postal Battalion’s Congressional Gold Medal, the AFRO remains a catalyst for national change. -- Edna W. Cummings, Col. (Ret.) US Army, 6888th Congressional Gold Medal Champion Through heartfelt reflections, historical insights, and imagery, Prayer and Pen reveals how Dr. Carl Murphy purposefully paused, reflected, and prayed about every aspect of his life and the global community. This book will inspire readers to deepen their relationship with God and to have a profound appreciation and respect for the enduring impact and legacy of Dr. Murphy and his family. -- Dr. Pamela Love, author and president of DP Love Enterprises