On Nov. 13, the Gospel Choir will be having a worship night from 7:30-9 p.m. It will take place in Hughes Auditorium and is open to all of campus. The purpose of the event is to open the space up for worship and praise for all those who need it.
The Gospel Choir, often known for their performances in chapel or at WHAM, is a large part of the music program here at Asbury. Conducted by Benjamin Black, the ensemble primarily sings gospel and praise songs. The group always brings a bold spirit to the sometimes dry tunes that infiltrate the halls of Hughes Auditorium.
Sophomore Sidney Hansen says, “They bring a fresh idea to worshiping God with passion and elaborate music.” The group has a wide legacy, having been in existence for the past decade. This year, they announced that the use of live bands would be incorporated for the next academic year.
The group also means a lot to its members. Senior Morgan Lane says, “My favorite part of Gospel Choir is the way that it brings people together who have their hearts set to solely worship the Lord. The whole-hearted worshiping community of Gospel Choir is a gift from God. I am so grateful and blessed to be a part of this community.”
Spiritual and social growth are always the first priorities for every person involved. Sophomore Ruby Price says, “Joining the Gospel Choir also helped me meet a lot of new people. It truly is a community of believers and feels like a family.” The hope is that the group will be a reflection of God’s love and faithfulness.
It also acts as a place of rest and peace for its members. Junior Sarah Cawley says, “Gospel Choir has been one of the things that has kept me grounded at Asbury. Whenever I’ve been down, I’ve had the gospel choir to be a rock for me, and I feel that a lot of other members feel the same way.”
There is a lot of thought put into every moment of rehearsals and in the creative process. Price says, “My favorite part about gospel choir is gathering together in worship before we begin rehearsal. We worship anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour.” Each time together is a gift used for prayer and to lift other people up.
Each and every song performed by the group is incredibly meaningful. Lane says, “A song I really enjoy singing with the Gospel Choir is ‘Raise A Hallelujah.’” The songs are chosen for their ability to honor the Lord in the purest way possible. The music ushers in joy and freedom that can only be experienced through everlasting worship with the Lord.
The group continues to be impactful, even to those watching from the audience. Sophomore Ivy Romines says, “They embody the spirit of Asbury and uplift all who are listening. It’s clear they put a lot of hard work into everything they’re doing.” All of that hard work is evident in every performance they have.
