The Los Angeles faith community endured another tumultuous year in 2021 yet maintained faith in the goodness of God. Those event were chronicled in the top stories covered in the L.A. Sentinel Religion section during the year.
Madeline Thompson, the extremely talented, elegant and creative vocalist, passed away on May 22, in Los Angeles. She was 78-years-old. Known internationally as the last original member of the Clara Ward Singers, Thompson joined the legendary group in 1960 and extended their fame for decades beyond the death of its famous namesake, endearing their unique sound to multiple generations. A native of Philadelphia, Thompson was beloved for her rendition of “Traveling Shoes,” a rousing gospel song she performed while dancing across the stage or up-and-down the aisles of a sanctuary. Her unique style is reflected on countless videos found on
Shouts of “hallelujah” and “praise God” were heard throughout the “Back To The Old Landmark” concert, which was sponsored by the Gospel Music Workshop of America – L.A. Chapter on Feb. 9. The annual event, held at People’s Independent Church of Christ in Los Angeles, attracted a capacity crowd to hear regional and nationally known gospel vocalists and musicians deliver a range of beloved selections. The theme was “Remembering Songs from the Golden Age of Gospel Music.” Living legends in attendance included Kenneth Glover, Annette May Thomas and Madeline Thompson of The Clara Ward Singers, who all sang melodies of