Friday's Michael W. Smith concert at the Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arena will continue to have an effect on those near and far.
More than 85 local residents performed with the Grammy-winning artist Smith on stage in a community choir made up of members from area churches.
"It's a great opportunity to have an internationally known musician come this close," said the Rev. Matt Wittenbrook, associate pastor at Gowanda Free Methodist Church, who participated in the choir. "To be able to sing in the choir is even more amazing. It's not often something likes this happens."
Wittenbrook said he was attending a Free Methodist church conference in Indianapolis when asked to participate. Seven others from the Gowanda church decided to join him in the choir also. They were given lyrics to the songs they would perform with Smith so they could rehearse.
"It's inspirational," said Wittenbrook about the songs. He said they point to Jesus. One song in particular, "Help Is On the Way," is a favorite of Wittenbrook's. He said that is because the song has an important message some people don't know, and the Rev. Wittenbrook wants them to keep in mind.
Wittenbrook said he was new to the Gowanda church when August floods occurred. He said it was incredible to see the community come together, and he attributes that to what the song says.
"God is inspiring people to reach out and help their neighbor, not be self-focused," he said, adding despite fears, like ones that may have been brought on by the flood, people need "the hope of God."
"He is able to change circumstances," said Wittenbrook.
Mike Quimby, worship director for the Bemus Point United Methodist Church, said he is grateful to have been able to sing with someone whose songs he listened to while growing up.
"I like how his concerts begin in performance mode," said Quimby, who said the shows end up focusing not on Smith or others on stage, but, rather, on God.
"I'm just excited to worship with him," said Quimby, who said he likes the truth in Smith's lyrics, which, he said, are Biblically based and speak to one's heart.
"I didn't think we would see Michael W. Smith in Jamestown," said Barb Emory, lay leader of Findley United Methodist Church. Not only did she see him, but she, and her whole family, sang with him.
"Just to have him come to our city is an awesome opportunity for us," she said. Mrs. Emory said she is especially excited for her children, in their 20s, to have been able to sing with Smith.
"This is something they can do first-hand, not through me, and then share with their friends, their generation," she said.
"When you are near someone so talented and so filled with the love of God, you can't help but walk away from that experienced changed," she said.
"In the world we're living in with so many difficulties, trials and struggles, hearing about God saving us is hope. With God in your life, you can accomplish anything," said Mrs. Emory, adding, "God can get you through."
Brett Heintzman, a pastor and music director at Harvest Chapel Church in Fredonia served as choir director for the local singers. Participating churches include Bemus Point United Methodist, Lakewood Baptist, Busti Church of God, Praise Fellowship, Laona United Methodist, Gowanda Free Methodist, First United Methodist of Fredonia, Levant Wesleyan, Lake Shore Assembly of God, Findley Lake United Methodist, and Harvest Chapel Free Methodist.
Bruce Fisher, a local advocate for Compassion International was also at the show in hopes of getting poverty-stricken youth from 26 third-world countries some help. Fisher said for $38 per month, a person can sponsor a child and know they are getting food, clothing, shelter and educational needs. Smith's Drummer, Mike Olson, said the program partners with churches from the countries to "bring hope in the world."
Olson said the Bible talks of how Jesus is the vine, and people are the branches. Jesus wants his character to be developed in others, he said, adding Jesus's giving ways can be evidenced through participation in the program. He said throughout the tour, kids will be able to be pulled out of poverty, just like in Jamestown.
"We found a new home in New York," said Smith, who told audience members he'll be back.
Smith's Web site reports that his 25-year career as a recording artist, has included 20 award-winning albums such as an American Music Award, 3 Grammy Awards (from 13 nominations) and 42 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards. Smith has had 16 gold and five platinum albums, 33 radio hits, and has been named one of People Magazine's Most Beautiful People. He has worked on several film projects, is the founder of Seabourne Pictures and has written 11 books.
To learn more about Compassion Incorporated, visit compassion.com.
Kenny Rogers will next perform at the arena for a Dec. 11 Christmas show.
