4th Annual Gospel on the Lawn in Rockledge

by Sammie Brown Martin

The Pre-Easter “Good Friday” musical program Gospel on the Lawn drew a crowd of over 800 to the Rockledge Civic Hub on Friday, April 18. Local talent was displayed from instrumentalists, vocals and creative dance. Since year-one, Faith Life Outreach Christian Kathedral (FLOCK) of Rockledge praise team has kicked-off the program. Metropolitan Baptist Church of Cocoa liturgical dancers swiftly followed releasing creative movements to “Stand Up” by Cynthia Erivo.

Other program participants were The Sons of Joys, a local male ensemble, saxophonist, Darrell Moody, the children’s choir of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saintsand vocalist, Sh’Mika Devoe.

As believers, today is our observance of thecrucifixion of Christ. But he died for our salvation declared Bishop Anthony Hatcher of the FLOCK. Hatcher’s message of hope was to encourage continuance. Gospel on the Lawn brings the community together and music cultivates happiness and wholeness of the human soul. But I wanted to spruce-up this year’s event, shared organizer, Councilwoman Sammie Brown Martin during an interview with Space Coast Daily. And, I recently had an opportunity to hear Florida A&M’s gospel choir and immediately began working to bring them to Rockledge.

The choir quickly stirred the crowd to their feet singing, “Christ Did It.” The free two-hour program offered attendees an array of musical performances, plus an opportunity to stroll and renew old acquaintances. Local non-profits, food-trucks and home-based businesses were also on hand. Although I’m the visionary, Gospel on the Lawn is funded by a few generous friends and family-members. The Jawaan Taylor Foundation, Community Bank of Rockledge and WWBC Radio, owner, Kimberly Kassis Butler are also annual supporters. And, this year, the Brevard County Chapter of Florida A&M University National Alumni Association was a major contributor, added Martin.