In recognition of Black History Month, The Ohio State University at Marion is pleased to present Gospelfest 2008, Saturday, February 2, at 5 p.m., in Morrill Hall Auditorium.

This special community concert welcomes performances by gospel singer Ursula Butts of Mansfield, Ohio, New Day Ministries Praise and Worship Team, Bucyrus, Ohio, and a guest performance by Marion Community Choir.

According to Shawn Jackson, diversity coordinator at Ohio State Marion and one of the principal organizers of the event, “gospel music is undoubtedly spiritual in nature and requires expression of feeling, using body, mind, and spirit.”

“It is something that everyone can share in regardless of age, race, beliefs and abilities,” said Jackson.

Jackson hopes the community will take advantage of the concert and this musical genre.  He encourages attendees to bring their enthusiasm, willingness to experiment, and conquer any inhibitions they may have regarding gospel.

Gospelfest featured performer Ursula Butts has ministered with many different groups including:  The Jordanaires, Showers of Blessing, Vision Youth Choir, Greater St. John Church Choir, Mansfield Community Choir, Mansfield District Choir, Ohio North Jurisdiction #1 State Choir.  She has sung background with the late Reverend James Moore, Karen Clark Sheard, Minister Joe Pace, Minister Marvin Sapp, Reverend Timothy Wright, Douglas Miller, and many more.  She has also ministered on the Trinity Broadcast Network (TBN), as well as on college campuses, prisons, crusades, and other churches.

Butts previously served in the following areas of ministry: worship and praise leader, choir director, flag team ministry coordinator, and youth leader.  She has also been sought after to provide worship training, creating manuals and educational materials for conferences, ministries, churches, and groups.  She currently serves as flag team ministry coordinator, as well as ministering prophetically through song at the GSJ Oasis of Love Church COGIC, where Dr. Walter Jordan II serves as pastor.

In 2007, Butts released her first CD, Ursula Butts, Live in Worship.  She has ministered throughout Ohio and Alabama promoting worship.  She was also named 2007 Gifted By God Talent Showcase winner (Columbus, Ohio).

Admission to the Gospelfest 2008 is a suggested donation of one non-perishable food item, which will benefit the Mayes Community Temple Food Pantry.

Gospelfest is a collaborative effort by Ohio State Marion’s Office of Diversity and Office of Community Relations and Development.  For concert information or details on upcoming Black History Month Events, both on campus and throughout the community, contact Shawn Jackson at 740-725-6219.