The Southern University Gospel Choir united in fellowship and worship during College Sunday at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Nashville, TN. The annual event, themed this year as Occupy the Yard, celebrates students’ academic and spiritual achievements. By the evening’s close on November 10, an astounding $200,000 in scholarships had been awarded to 100 students.
Southern’s Gospel Choir, led by alumni Bishop Joseph W. Walker, was invited to perform at his home. Reflecting on the experience, Ashley Lovelace, senior Mass Communications major and president of the Gospel Choir, shared, “He didn’t just open his home, but he opened his church, his church family, and even his own family to us. It was a great time of fellowship.”
The day was filled with warmth, celebration, and collegiate excellence. Junior Biology major Kezia McClain captivated the congregation as a soloist, performing Satan, We’re Gonna Tear Your Kingdom Down alongside the Unite College Choir. McClain shared her initial nerves upon seeing the size of the church, but said, “In that moment, I was honestly just focused on God.”
Addressing this year’s Occupy the Yard theme, McClain added, “It’s not just about occupying campus spaces but allowing God to enter our campus and community. With everything happening, death, fights, and struggles, this experience was truly needed.”
College Sunday proved to be more than just a worship service; it was a celebration of family, HBCU excellence, and community impact. James Elliott, director of Southern University’s Gospel Choir, emphasized the importance of the choir’s outreach. “Traveling gives us the chance to see life outside of campus and explore where gospel music is welcomed. Ministry goes beyond campus, and spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ nationally is our mission,” he said.
Southern University’s Gospel Choir has long been a beacon of inspiration, performing at Homecoming Ecumenical Worship services, hosting Sunday night concerts, and even traveling to Harvard University to share their ministry.
For those who want to witness their powerful ministry firsthand, the choir will host a concert on November 22 at 7:30 PM at Gloryland Baptist Church, located at 6745 Breenwell Springs Road, Baton Rouge, LA. All are welcome to attend and experience the spirit of song and worship.
