The Biola University Gospel Choir will celebrate their 30th anniversary this Saturday, April 23. Formed in 1986, the Gospel Choir has had a long legacy. Originally started by students with the intent of bringing gospel music to campus, the group has spread a love for this genre of music and introduced it into regular worship spaces at Biola.

The 30th anniversary celebration — Gospelfest — is an evening dedicated to the integration of gospel music and diversity at Biola.

“The Gospel Choir started as an expression of worship that some students wanted to have on-campus and has developed into a place where students from diverse backgrounds can learn how to worship the Lord through Gospel music. It has also created a family: a community within the community at Biola,” said Tamra Malone, director of diversity initiatives and assessment. “Having different expressions of worship on our campus because we are able to experience the vastness of God and the diversity in the body of Christ. All for the glory of God.”

According to Malone, the focus of the event is to reflect on the legacy of the gospel choir and to worship the Lord together through the genre of gospel. At the event, all seven former Gospel Choir directors will be honored, followed by a time of worship led by the choir and a dessert reception.

Gospelfest is the last event within an all-day event created for the purpose to welcome all new accepted students of ethnically diverse backgrounds into the rich atmosphere of Biola.

Biola senior Janelle Paule attended the admissions event when she was a prospective student. Now, about to graduate with a degree in sociology, Paule has helped with the event in the past and is involved with Gospelfest this Saturday.

“When I first attended Step It Up four years ago in April 2012 as a prospective student, I had no idea what to expect,” said Paule. “Little did I know that God would reveal to me that weekend that Biola was exactly where I was supposed to be. I am so grateful that this event continues to create a safe space for prospective students of color each year!”

Biola’s Multi-Ethnic Programs and Development hopes incoming students will feel welcomed and embraced by the Biola community. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour campus and residence halls, as well as interact with current students and faculty.

“Gospelfest” starts at 7 p.m. in Calvary Chapel, and is free and open to the public. “Connect to Biola” is $10 per student, which includes up to two additional guests (space is limited).

Read The Chimes article, “Gospel Choir to rejoice in its legacy,” to learn more. 

Written by Sarie Koes, media relations intern. Photos courtesy of The Chimes/John Uy. For more information, contact Jenna Loumagne, media relations specialist, at (562) 777-4061 or jenna.loumagne@biola.edu.