Many Sparrows concert raises money for missions trip

Many Sparrows concert raises money for missions trip

The Christian indie band Many Sparrows debuted at the Allan Park Bandshell on Saturday, despite questionable weather conditions.

However, the weather cooperated long enough for Steve Johnson and his bandmates in Many Sparrows to headline a fundraiser for his wife and daughter’s upcoming mission trip to the South American nation of Guatemala.

"The weather held off, praise God," said the Rev. Tim Smart, a head pastor with REALiFE Church in Jamestown. "It looks like more and more people are coming out to see the main act."

Smart explained that the prospective missionaries from his church, Cynde Johnson and Annalie Johnson, along with Steve Johnson, the lead singer of Many Sparrows, were undergoing a family transformation together. Smart said that REALifFE Church has an established relationship with Uniting 2 Serve, an organization with a long history of serving impoverished South American nations, specifically Guatemala.

"One of our church members, Cecil Rhodes, who is preparing for retirement soon, has been traveling to Guatemala for years with Uniting 2 Serve, funding his own trips. However, now REALiFE is providing financial support to Uniting 2 Serve, and Cynde and Annalie will be going on a mission trip," Smart said.

During Sunday's event, participants had a variety of activities to select from as part of the overall program, including a food truck, an ice cream trailer and various booths selling T-shirts and other merchandise.

"We have a tattoo and face painting station," said Heleena Walter, a member of REALiFE Church and supporter of the Johnsons. "I'm happy and proud to support Cynde and her family."

Many Sparrows performed in a nearly 90-minute show, preceded by the all-female ensemble Daughters of Thunder.

"Daughters of Thunder performed all-original music," Smart said.

Daughters of Thunder, a Warren-based band, consists of Belle, 11, lead vocals/guitar; Addy, 10, vocals/guitar/bass; Nat, 16, vocals/drums; and Alice, 15, vocals/guitar.

"They (Daughters of Thunder) were amazing," Smart said. "They had to leave early because they were filming a music video."

A glance at the audience showed what appeared to be delight, backed by loud applause after each song or set Many Sparrows performed.

"Worshiping God through song and praise--what’s not to like?" said Jen Amundson, a native of Busti and an attendee of the show. "I hear the band will perform some original, first-cut songs for the first time."

John Streed, the owner and operator of Blue Moon Productions, who represents and manages Many Sparrows, said he has high hopes for the new Christian music band and looks forward to many more spiritually uplifting events in the near future.

"This is an excellent start for the band," he said. "I am fully confident that they will be successful in the future, and I eagerly anticipate seeing the amazing path the Lord has in store for them."

Streed added that John Barber, Jamestown Area YMCA CEO, played a role in executing the concert and fundraiser by serving as the event's master of ceremonies.

Steve Johnson said he feels blessed and values the opportunity to support his wife and daughter on their upcoming mission while also serving God simultaneously.

"This event. ...It was truly a blessing to serve the Lord, to honor him and praise him," he said.