Terry's Picks for February 2017
West Michigan Christian News writer Terry DeBoer surveys the landscape for the area's faith-based arts and entertainment events over the coming month. Here are three highlights for February.*THE SINGING HIMS – The local men's choral ensemble performs at 5:30 p.m. Sunday Feb. 12 at Faith Community Christian Reformed Church, 5250 Byron Center Ave. SW in Wyoming. There is no admission charge; a free-will offering will be received. THE SINGING HIMS has a 40 year history under its original director Jack Ponstine, singing in churches, nursing and retirement homes, campgrounds and jail facilities. Their repertoire includes traditional and contemporary hymns, spirituals, praise choruses, gospel, classical and patriotic. The group has numerous CDs, including a live recording of last year's 40th anniversary concert. For more information visit www.thesinginghims.org
*"Cotton Patch Gospel" – The musical stage play based on the Clarence Jordan book "The Cotton Patch Version of Matthew and John" is performed Feb. 16 – March 11 at Master Arts Theatre, 75 77th St. SW. The "Southern" look and feel of the story is reinforced by an on-stage bluegrass band, performing the musical score written by the late folk-pop artist Harry Chapin. Curtain times are 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, with 2 p.m. Saturday matinees. Tickets are $19 adult, $17 senior citizens and students. Available at www.masterarts.orgor by phone at 616-455-1001.
*"Get Real" – The women's conference is set for Feb. 24-25 at Community Reformed Church, 10376 Felch St. Zeeland. Keynote speakers are Chrystal Evans Hurst and Dawn Scott Damon. Music/worship led by Marcia Ware. Several breakout sessions with the "Get Real" theme include leaders such as Judy Buffum Hemmilla and Christine Stancle. The conference begins at 6:30 p.m. Friday, and 8:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday (optional breakfast at 8 a.m.). Tickets are $25 advance, $30 day of event; available via www.itickets.com, phone 800-965-9324 or at the church office. Co-sponsored by Lakeshore Pregnancy Center and Community Reformed Women's Ministry.
