MUSIC TAKES CENTER STAGE AT WEEK OF HOPE
by Eric Elder for the Streator Times-Press

(Left to Right) Angie Brock, Michael Voll and Kent Sanders rehearse music for the Week of Hope.

Over 100 musicians, singers and choir members are rehearsing for the upcoming “Week of Hope,” which will take place October 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th at the Streator High School Auditorium.

Kent Sanders, Music Director for the Week of Hope, says, “We’ve gathered some of the finest musicians in the area to lead you in tremendous times of worship. I love to sing and worship with the people at my church every week, but I’m excited to be worshipping with people from all over Streator, with believers from all the churches in town. I believe as we lift up the name of Jesus together, God will bring real hope and healing to our community.”

Each of these four nights will feature a variety of music, drama, video, real life testimonies, and an inspiring message of hope from God’s Word. Sanders adds, “Every night will be different, so come all four nights if you can, and be sure to bring your friends. Each night will be a high-quality experience that will capture your attention and make a real difference in your life.”

(Left to Right) Helen Strauss and Dave Ivy add the flute and trombone to the mix.

A different team of musicians will lead the music every night, accompanied by a live band including everything from drums, guitars and congas to cellos, flutes and violins. There will be songs to sing together and songs to just sit back and enjoy, from classic hymns like “Amazing Grace” and “Just As I Am” to contemporary favorites like “Shout To The Lord” and “I Could Sing Of Your Love Forever.”

(Left to Right) Rick Topolski, Chris Brock (behind drums) and Rob Taylor help bring the music to life.

Saturday night’s program will feature a city-wide children’s and youth choir directed by Bill Trelease. Sunday night’s program will feature a city-wide adult choir directed by Cheryl Cinnamon. Special music will be provided throughout the 4-day event by Jo Beth Gates, Tiffany Oliver, Kent Sanders and Denny Rockey.

Each night’s program will also include moving stories of how God has worked in the lives of several Streator residents, including Raymond Berry, Linda Piszczor, Kim and Jim Spraggon, Kevin and Vonna McGuire, Kirsten Bender, Eric Elder, Paul Webster, Hannah Wilken, Ruth Huckins, Nancy Broedlow, Jane Gillum, and Rick Jepsen.

An inspirational message will cap off each night provided by Eric Elder, President of the Streator Ministerial Association, who is coordinating the event along with leaders from the other churches in town.

The Week of Hope starts at 7 pm each night at the Streator High Auditorium. The event is free and everyone in town is invited and encouraged to attend. For those who can’t come in person, portions of the event will also be broadcast live on WWGN, 88.9 FM.

Sanders concludes: “Start letting your friends know that real hope is closer than they can imagine. I look forward to worshipping with you October 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th.”