Jackson Free Press

Dealing with the aftermath of natural disasters can be overwhelming. The chilling effect can linger for months, maybe even years. It is for those reasons that some of Mississippi's top gospel artists will converge at the Greater Bethlehem Temple Apostolic Faith Church, 1505 Robinson Road, in Jackson on Friday, Oct. 14 at 7 p.m.

Jerry Mannery, executive director of gospel for the Malaco Music group said: "We wanted to do something for Mississippi. We have so many national artists in our state, and it would have been tragic had we not come together."

Coming together Friday night is a roster that reads like an NFL Hall of Fame induction—and they're all Mississippi connected, either via record company or residence. The lineup includes The Mississippi Mass Choir, The Williams Brothers, Lee Williams and the Spiritual QC's, The Canton Spirituals, The Christianaires, The Jackson Southernaires, Shadrach, DA Minista, Anderson Sanctuary Choir and The Greater Bethlehem Temple Radio Choir.

The evening kicks off with praise and worship music and will quickly segue into toe-tapping, hip-slapping and hand-clapping renderings of musical offerings.

No matter what your taste is in gospel music, you will find something there to please you. If you are looking for good Sunday morning old-school church music, then look no further than the award-winning Mississippi Mass Choir. If quartet music is your cup of tea, Friday night is the world series of gospel with The Canton Spirituals taking center stage.

For the younger audience that dares to keep up with the trends and stylings of hip-hop music, then DA Minista is certain to make your head bob and your hands "raise the roof " as you get your praise on.

Doug Williams of the Stellar Awardwinning group the Williams Brothers said through their non-profit foundation "Operation Help" that monies would be funneled to those churches and organizations acting as shelters. "All of the monies raised will stay in Mississippi and in particular the southern part of the state that was more adversely affected by Hurricane Katrina," Williams said.

All of the artists appearing have given their time, talent and treasure to make this production special and to ensure that it is a real benefit. "Oftentimes you do these kinds of events and the money you make is eaten up by your expenses," Mannery shared. "None of these artists are receiving a
dime."

It took little time for the artists to respond to the call and offer their support. "We put this event together in a matter of two days. Everybody we called was eager to join us in our efforts," Williams added.

Admission to the concert is free, but Williams said, "Let us all remember that this concert is about raising money to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina.

"Therefore, I challenge every person who really wants to be a blessing that night, and not just come to receive a blessing, to bring a minimum donation of 20 dollars."