Gospel Sing at Wesley UMC 2007

RenoFest Bluegrass Festival Concludes with a Gospel Sing at Wesley UMC

on Sun, 03/25/2007 - 22:15. Arts, Entertainment, Reviews

The 10th annual RenoFest Bluegrass Festival has concluded, a banner year that had more guests than ever and the best weather a festival planner could hope for. Marty Driggers and Judi Elvington and their faithful crew of helpers were thanked for all their hard work by thunderous applause this morning at the Sunday Morning Gospel Sing.

Church members and bluegrass fans from Hartsville and "from away" were treated to the beautiful melodies from Hickory Grove at the annual Gospel Sing. Hickory Grove is a favorite of Hartsvillians, and they kept toes tapping and hands clapping along to their soulful harmonies and masterful playing of their string instruments.

Left to right, Russ Jordan on mandolin, Kerry McSwain on lead guitar, Ray Mosley on banjo, Wanda McSwain on rhythm guitar and lead vocals, and Billie Jordan on bass.

They sang old favorites like Amazing Grace, some of their own songs, and blue grass gospel classics. They even invited our music lovin' Pastor Terry Martin to join them for a song!

After a long, well deserved standing ovation, the group performed "How Great Thou Art", dedicated to lead singer Wanda McSwain's late grandmother; judging from the tears in the eyes of most of the band members and the congregation and bluegrass fans and guests, the song really touched the hearts of all present.

Just as in the days of Jesus, voices lifted in praise, good will and cheer are the most joyful expressions of prayer of all... as reads Psalm 150 that Pastor Terry chose for the day.

Thank you, RenoFest team, for yet another fine festival!