Light contemporary and inspirational singer Joani Tabor has performed on Easter morning at the First Christian Church on East John Street for six of the last seven years.
"I've come here today to start a fire underneath your pants so you can get excited about Jesus," she told the congregation at Sunday's 10:30 a.m. service.
First Christian Church's minister, Dr. Ken Haskins, first heard Tabor perform at a North American Christian Church convention eight years ago.
"I was so impressed and moved by her song that I asked her to come sing at our church," said Haskins. Her performances have become a tradition.
"We love her -- she's like part of our family," he said.
Tabor flew up from Roanoke, Va., where she lives with her husband of 31 years, Dr. Glenn A. Tabor Jr. In the 12 years. she has produced 12 albums, with No. 13 on its way. She performed Saturday night, twice Sunday morning and Sunday evening at 6 this year.
She opened her morning performance with "God Bless America." Most of the congregation was singing along, even before she asked them.
"That's what it's gonna take," she said after the song. "It's gonna take God blessing this country."
As folks filed out at the end of the service, Tabor greeted many of the congregation by name and offered CDs for sale.
"I love Joani Tabor," said 12-year church member Shirley Keller. "I wouldn't miss one of her concerts." She planned to go back for the 6 p.m. show.
On the Net
www.JoaniTabor.org
