Religion of Saturday, 3 March 2007

Source: GNA

Easter Harvest Praise 2007 scheduled for Good Friday April 6

Accra, March 03, GNA - 93Harvest Praise 2007," a gospel musical fiesta being organized by Harvest International Ministries in collaboration with Evergreen Harvest Gospel Choir has been scheduled for Good Friday, April 6 at the National Theatre in Accra. A statement issued by the Planning Committee in Accra on Saturday said the fiesta under the theme 93The Gospel Music Ministry-The Crucifixion of Christ" would feature local seasoned gospels singers. It said 93Harvest Praise 2007" would set the new pace for gospel music in Ghana, as the participating groups would spur out Biblical message through music to give hope, direct people to the redemptive work of Jesus Christ and prophesize as directed by the Lord.

A special feature would be a performance by Mr Yaw Antwi-Dadzie, acclaimed Charismatic Weeping Worship Leader.

He would lead the Harvest Gospel Choir with soul-inspiring gospel performance to stir up emotions on the passion day. "Ironically the Charismatic Weeping Worship Leader whiles moaning would passionately use the power of music to wipe away tears of mankind, especially thousands of gospel music enthusiasts who would throng the venue and give them hope that after crucifixion Jesus Christ is their advocate," the statement added.

Other activities include message of hope by Reverend Fitzgerald Odonkor, President of Harvest International Ministries, Power Praise and Worship, special performance by seasoned guest artists and a choreographic concert by Harvest Theatre troop.

Mr Frank Asante, Chairman of the Planning Committee in an interview with the Ghana News Agency said the fiesta sought to emphasis on gospel music as a ministry and not an industry.

He said gospel music was not a commercial enterprise but an evangelistic teaching avenue bestowed by God on individuals through empowerment in the tone and voice to reach out to people with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Mr Asante noted that anytime 93Gospel" singers saw their calling as an industry, they missed the spiritual ramification of gospel music and focused on the economic benefit.

"Unfortunately most 93Gospel" singers are heading for the economic benefit instead of the evangelist teaching," he added. Mr Asante who is also an Elder at Harvest Chapel International,urged gospel music singers to recognize that they preached to large congregations through their music 93therefore you must watch your demeanour when you perform."