Thursday, March 01, 2007

Sisters in spirit

By Melina Rodriguez
Staff writer

Gospel singers perform for community

The sounds of gospel music radiated from Fort Belvoir’s Wallace Theater on Feb. 21 as more than 900 community members packed the venue for a first-of-its-kind concert on the installation. “During this time of war the ministry part was excellent,” said Sonya Glover, retired military spouse and supervisor of logistic education and training at the American Red Cross of the National Capital Area. “The ministry part was excellent; we need the healing across the nation especially on a military base. It was just a great night.” And though the gospel concert started 45 minutes late and only two out of the originally- scheduled five performers attended, the audience’s enjoyment was apparent as they stood clapping, singing and swaying to the music. The nationwide Sisters in Spirit tour was cancelled in every other venue because of a lack of ticket sales, said Kristen Williams, assistant chief of community recreation, however the concert was still held at Fort Belvoir because the show was sold out and the star performer, Shirley Ceasar, wanted to bring the concert to an Army installation. “We’ve been through so much to get you here, so many bumps in the road,” said Installation Command Sgt. Maj. Tracey Anbiya, who came up with the idea to bring the concert to Fort Belvoir. “Thank God you’re here.” The show started late because, the first performer, Kelly Price’s luggage was lost at the airport and she had to buy an outfit for the show. “Together we are Soldiers in the Army of the Lord,” said Price, as she began her performance with the help of organist Michael E. Mathis. Price sang four songs before Ceasar, who is also a minister in North Carolina, came onstage with a band and four backup singers. At one point during Ceasar’s performance, audience members came to the front of the stage and were given the microphone. “It was really nice for the children so that they can know God better,” said Jaynel Jones, who is 11 years old and was the youngest audience member to come forward and sing in front of the crowd. Jones aspires to be a singer when she grows up. “[This concert] gives me inspiration for my faith,” said Jeanette Spann, a member of Fort Belvoir’s gospel choir, which ushered the event. Fort Belvoir’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation, the chaplain’s office and the Fort Belvoir Federal Credit Union sponsored the three-hour concert.