ATLANTA — A metro Atlanta church is going viral online over its use of rap music at its New Year's Eve service.
The dReam Center Church of Atlanta is well-known in the metro area. Lead Pastor William Murphy - a notable gospel recording artist -- launched the church in 2006, according to its website. It's known for its vibrant, energy-filled services.
Sunday's service, which was also streamed online, is getting a lot of attention because songs like "Walk It Out" and "Swag Surfin" were played during church. This particular moment came as Murphy shared a message of encouragement as we "leap" into a new year.
He told the congregation to "work the prophecy" and "walk it out." That's when rapper Unk's famous "Walk It Out" hit played in the sanctuary. Murphy told the crowd to "keep it sanctified" as they danced at their seats and at the alter. Shortly after, "Swag Surfin" was the next jam the crowd grooved to.
After the fun moment was over, Murphy reminded the congregation that sometimes in life, "you will have to walk in territories that you ain't never been before," but you will have the "strength you need to walk it out."
People on social media had a lot to say about the use of rap music at church. While some supported the full circle moment and the message, others were not on board.
And as the opinions mounted, so did the memes. The "Swag Surfin" and "Walk It Out" moment sparked a debate about what's acceptable in the church house.
Even following the opinions, the church shared in a social media post that 150 people "said YES to Jesus" that day.
"This is bigger than 30-second clips, followers, or clickbait. We’re still building something that matters," the Facebook post said. And many people in the comments backed Murphy.
One commented that he watched the service and that the clip circulating online is "only a segment of the great service."
"Yaaas! Winning souls is the only thing that matters! So happy for you all! May God continue to increase you and bless you," another Facebook user said.
"But some of y’all was worried how they brought in the New Year. Look at all the souls that were saved!!!! That’s all that matter," another person said.