The Bethel Collegiate Choir is changing the image of a traditional church choir by starting a student-inclusive and nondenominational group, according to Sherrisse Bryant, University doctoral candidate and choir organizer.
At Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, pastor and University Africa and African-American studies professor, Herman O. Kelly said he wants the choir to help build a diverse youth community with a spiritual common ground.
“It’s been my dream to have a collegiate choir made up of LSU, Southern University and Baton Rouge Community College,” Kelly said. “Dr. King talks about the dream and beloved community. This is my effort to teach his dream.”
Bryant said the group will practice and sing during church service once a month, but it’s still trying to get word out to students from all the schools.
She said students do not need to be vocally talented or members of the church to participate.
“It is ministry inclusion of all colleges, races and denomination. All we want is to sing praise,” Kelly said.
Sports administration sophomore Naja Mix said there is no judgment when it comes to singing.
“I’m not a singer, but you know, anyone can sing for the Lord,” Mix said.
The group will sing upbeat and new songs, and musical director Tirzah Smith is open to suggestions and helping students grow musically, according to Bryant.
“There are no limits — we allow you to be free to do something you enjoy,” Bryant said.
Mix said she joined because she was encouraged by Kelly in class, but also because the choir offers the opportunity for more youth in the church community to meet new people.
When developing the idea for the choir, Bryant said she thought young adults needed an outlet and a way to spiritually connect with other students.
“I want them to go back and be refreshed,” Bryant said.
“It’s been my dream to have a collegiate choir made up of LSU, Southern and Baton Rouge Community College.”
