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QUINCY, ILL. -- More than a hundred people attended a church service in Quincy Monday in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.

"This is one of the best days of my life," Carmelita Watkins said.

For Watkins, the day centered around Dr. King is no ordinary date on the calendar.

"It's a history. It's a story to be told," Watkins said.

The annual celebration took place at Bethel AME Church. Leaders from various churches united with city and state leaders for the two-hour ceremony.

The message of Monday's service, unity in our communities, was especially important for many in the congregation.

"He was a great man and I wish he could've been here to see Obama being president for the second time. I know he would have been very happy and blessed about that," Onella Crider said.

Reverend Minnie Smith, from Willow Street Christian Church in Hannibal, served as the day's keynote speaker.

This year marked the 27th year since Martin Luther King Day was initiated.