Families in Need Concert: Tickets now on sale for NewSong concert

By RENEE WEBB, Globe editor
November 3, 2005

The Grammy nominated Christian contemporary group NewSong plans to deliver a spirit-filled performance for the Families in Need Concert that is slated for 7 p.m., Nov. 19 at the Orpheum Theatre in Sioux City.

"NewSong is a Christian band that is best known for their Christmas hit, The Christmas Shoes," noted Steve Elbert, director of development for Catholic Charities.

The group garnered national attention with the release of Christmas Shoes in the year 2000. The song even captured the No. 1 spot on Billboard's chart. A novel based on the song appeared on the New York Times bestseller list for two years and was followed by a CBS made-for-TV movie starring Rob Lowe and Kimberly Williams.

Proceeds of the Families in Need Concert will benefit Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Sioux City. Elbert pointed out that funds generated through the concert will help provide valuable services to needy families and individuals.

At the Families in Need Concert NewSong will perform songs from their new CD Rescue as well as their Christmas album, The Christmas Shoes.

"This is a great way to head into Advent and the holiday season," said Elbert.

Billy Goodwin, vocalist and guitar player with NewSong, said that ultimately through their music they would like to "share the love of Jesus with everyone. Let people know how they can have a personal relationship with God and how he can change your life. God has been so good to us and changed our lives so much that we want to share that with folks, too."

Goodwin has been with NewSong for 25 years. He is an original band member along with Eddie Carswell.

"We felt like this was something God called us to do," he said.

Goodwin said they committed to it "for the long haul" as long as God kept showing up and worked to change lives.

Because the group tries to reach out to youth, he said they attempt to keep the music up-to-date sounding along with good and clear lyrics.

In addition to great music, one member of the group generally shares a personal testimony - how God has worked in his life.

Goodwin pointed out that they have performed for several benefits. He said, "It's a blessing to know that we can share what we do and also be able to help folks locally that are trying to raise funds for the ministry they have. It's encouraging to us to be a part of helping others, too."

Elbert pointed out that the band is also very willing to work with them to have students from Catholic Schools of Sioux City included in the program.

"We feature third and fourth graders from the Catholic Schools of Sioux City. The schools are great about lending a hand to help Catholic Charities and its counseling program," he said. "We really appreciate their support and the support of the parents."

The students will be on stage during the second half of the show, singing a few songs with NewSong.

"Catholic Charities is grateful to the parishes and other Christian churches," noted Elbert. "We have seen a significant growth in the attendance of youth groups and adult groups from around the area. We have received strong support from the diocesan religious education department."

He pointed out that he sees value in the youth group attendance in two ways. It helps the young people realize there are others with needs and it offers a wholesome way for them to have fun and fellowship.

This same group was featured for the 2003 Families in Need Concert. That year they drew a crowd of 1,800 to the Orpheum. This year marks the fourth year of the benefit. Almost $100,000 has been raised for Catholic Charities in the first three years.

Elbert extended gratitude to the major sponsors the event - Knova's Carpets, Brown Construction, Central Bank and Security National Bank as well as the media sponsors - News Channel 4 and Sioux City Journal.

He stressed the fact that financial support for Catholic Charities was needed now more than ever as government funding has been reduced by about 75 percent in the last six years.

"Our Christian brothers and sisters from other denominations are becoming more involved because they realize Catholic Charities serves people of all faiths. We are grateful that they support us in that way," said Elbert. "If there are people out there who want to support us through this event, but are unable to attend, we are always open to receiving underwriting for tickets for our foster families and other clients to attend the event. The business community as well as individuals have been very generous in providing that."

This not only helps with the bottom line in funds raised, but it also provides a way for clients to attend the event who probably would not otherwise be able to attend an Orpheum event.

Tickets are presently on sale and are available at all Ticketmaster locations as well as on-line at www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets are $19. Discounts are available for groups.