David Holbert tours Chicago with Baldwin Wallace University's Voices of Praise Gospel Choir

2016 May 23

David Holbert of Beachwood spent 2016 Spring Break on tour in Chicago with Baldwin Wallace University's Voices of Praise Gospel Choir (VOP). The multicultural choir, which turned 40 this year, seeks to promote, preserve and present gospel music as a sacred, authentic art form. The 31 choir members made appearances at churches, schools and organizations across the city from small audiences to live broadcasts.

Holbert, a graduate of Orange High School majoring in music theatre, had many opportunities for fellowship with the groups the choir visited throughout the week. Highlights of the trip included performances at Rainbow Push Coalition with Rev. Jesse Jackson, at Fellowship Chicago with Charles Jenkins and at Greater Love Missionary Baptist Church. They attended a workshop with Wheaton Gospel Choir led by Pastor Bryant Jones. The choir also ministered to the kids and staff at the Rice Child + Family Center and Lincoln Elementary School.

The feeling of community was ever-present among the members of VOP throughout the trip, even when they took time off for sightseeing. Visit https://www.facebook.com/TheVoicesofPraise to hear VOP singing under Chicago's Cloud Gate Sculpture, also known as "The Bean," as well as other highpoints of the tour.