Grotto to host Gospel Songfest
By TAVIA MALONE
Globe staff writer
Posted May 23, 2002

WEST BEND - Christian music in a beautiful setting is what the 3rd annual Gospel Songfest, which is held at the Grotto of the Redemption here, has to offer next month. Several Christian musical groups will be performing at this year's event.

The Gospel Songfest, which is free, has grown consistently. This year, the total number of visitors is expected to be at nearly 1,000, which is an increase from the 500 people who attended the event last year.

The day of music and fun will be held on Sunday, June 9, from 2 to 8 p.m. with four different acts throughout the day.

The Ambassadors, the headline group, has performed at the Grotto's songfest each of the previous years. The group will sing at 2 and 6:30 p.m. L.I.F.E will take the stage at 3:45 p.m. followed by Jubilation, which includes a former teacher from West Bend, at 4:45 p.m.

The Redemption Singers, a group from Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in West Bend, will perform at 6 p.m.

Not only will there be Christian music throughout the day, but a barbeque will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on the Grotto grounds. The cost is $5 per adult and $2.50 per child. The barbeque is a fundraiser for the West Bend Chamber of Commerce, the West Bend Economic Development team and the Grotto to help purchase Grotto community brochures to attract visitors to the site.

Additionally, tours of the Grotto of the Redemption will be offered that day and the gift shop and restaurant will be open.

"What a better place to have Christian music than out on the Grotto grounds?" said Diane Streit, who organized the Gospel Songfest. "It is just an opportunity to bring people here. If they come for the songfest, then they can view the Grotto."

Although there will be tents set up, organizers ask that visitors bring a lawn chair to the songfest. A free-will offering is asked to help pay for some of the travel expenses for the Christian music groups.

"I think the songfest is of tremendous value," Streit said. "Not only does it bring people here to spread the Christian message, but also it reiterates to them to remember the Grotto."

For more information call (800) 868-3641. In case of rain, the event will be held indoors.