Gospel music draws some to Homecomers

Over the shrieks of children on amusement rides, church choirs belted out gospel tunes Wednesday at Jackson Homecomers.

This year was the first in recent memory for a religious aspect to be added to the festival, coinciding with an expanded schedule marking the 100th anniversary for Homecomers.

"Our religion is a very strong aspect of the community. This is a great opportunity to share that through a common worship service and time to witness," said Mike Grant, who led the choir from First General Baptist Church. The choir sang traditional songs such as "Amazing Grace" but also added contemporary, fast-paced songs like "I Am Blessed," which got the crowd perched on the lawn to clap their hands and tap their feet.

As the music blared from the speakers, carnival passers-by often stopped to listen. Others, armed with lawn chairs and many with a fish sandwich or a cinnamon-glazed funnel cake in hand, gathered on the courthouse lawn early to reserve a spot.

"We came especially for the gospel music," Paula Suzuki said. "It's very good."

Suzuki said she expected a bigger crowd for the 100th anniversary and that she didn't think there were as many carnival rides as in previous years. "Usually it's packed. But they've still got taffy. That's a plus," she said.

To kick off the night, the president of the Jackson Ministerial Alliance, which includes more than a dozen churches, led a worship service. The Rev. Sam Roethemeyer highlighted the importance of churches in the community and the role they play in helping those in need.

"The church is a powerful influence for good," he told the crowd.

The Rev. Luther Rhodes, vice president of the alliance, reminded people to celebrate friendship, saying that "although we live in a little, close community we don't see each other enough. ... Let us thank God for a community that comes together tonight."

Besides First General Baptist Church and Heartland Pops, three other groups performed: Emanuel United Church of Christ, the Reflections and the Handpickin' Group.

The night concluded with "Senior Idols," with three residents from the Jackson Senior Center performing. The senior center held its own version of the popular television talent show "American Idol," and the top three contestants were selected to sing at Homecomers.

Elsewhere at the festival, children jumped through bounce houses, couples strolled hand in hand, generations of families gathered, and people stuffed their face with ice cream.

"It's a tradition," Afton Eftink said.

As 11-year-old Mattie Beussink exited her favorite ride, she said the best part of Homecomers was the cotton candy.

"It couldn't have been a better night. It looks like there's huge crowd. You can look around and see three generations of a family sitting out," said Mary Penzel, who helped organize the event.

And the gospel music appeared to be a big hit.

"I think they should have more gospel everywhere," said Judy Lukefahr as she watched her daughter perform.

lbavolek@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 123

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