Yesterday, in commemoration of Civil Rights Month, the Second Congregational Church in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, hosted "Sing and Laugh Out Loud!," a Gospel comedy celebration that rocked to the rafters.
The program opened with praising, shouting, stomping, and spirited singing by the Holy Tabernacle Praise and Worship Team from Dorchester, in the eastern part of the state.
The eight women singers looked sharp in lime green suits. The male musicians wore dark suits and matching lime green ties. When the music began, members of the appreciative audience raised their arms in the air, jumped up, and clapped with gusto. It turned out to be a celebration to remember, showing the power of praise through music.
Also on the program was Rod Allison, "Rod of God," an attorney, comedian, and motivational speaker from North Carolina. He had attendees roaring in laughter with his stories and antics. Raised in a deep Southern Baptist Church, Allison almost brought the house down. There were also heartfelt songs sung by a Pittsfield teenager, Tyeesha Rene Keele.
The late Rev.Samuel Harrison, who was born into slavery in 1818, was the first pastor pf the Second Congregational Church where the Gospel celebration was held. Rev. Harrison also served as chaplain of the Massachusetts 54th Regiment, the first all black infantry to fight in the Civil War.
Programs like the Gospel comedy help all people, including those in this western Massachusetts town, to realize we are all part of the same human family.
The music made hearts and souls sing and jump for joy!
HAVE YOU HEARD GOSPEL MUSIC?
+(Large).JPG)
