The New Earth Christian Church will observe Black History Month by hosting a gospel musical on Sunday, Feb. 16, at 2 p.m., at the Rowley Park Auditorium, 13220 S. Van Ness Ave., in Gardena.
According to TNECC Pastor Larry Dozier, the event will feature Pastor Charles T. Woods and the choir of Bethany Missionary Baptist Church of Los Angeles in concert.
The program will include the unveiling of the USPS Black Heritage stamp honoring musician Allen Toussaint.
“Rev. Woods, a composer, vocalist, and pianist, performed with the late, great, James Cleveland and continues to minister in music at Bethany where he’s been the pastor for the past 18 years,” said Pastor Dozier.
Other guests include Gardena Councilmember Paulette Frances, vocalist Chris Jones, The Dozier Singers, and choreographer and dancer Ms. Mori with her Teen Dance Crew.
“We invite the public to bring your entire family to rejoice at this uplifting service. Admission is free, refreshments will be served, and stamps will be available for purchase,” he added.
The Toussaint stamp, the 48th honoree in the Black Heritage series, recognizes the virtuoso pianist, singer, songwriter, composer, arranger, and producer. He helped shape the unique sound of New Orleans music and played a pivotal role in sharing it with a global audience.
Toussaint collaborated with a diverse range of artists and produced countless hits in a career that spanned nearly six decades. His songs – including “Fortune Teller, “All These Things” and “Southern Nights” have become timeless classics, covered by numerous artists and featured in films and television shows.
The stamp features a photograph of Toussaint at the piano, dressed in black, with a black background set off by purplish lighting and his name in red lettering at the lower edge.
To learn more, email Pastor Larry Dozier at Lrrdz@att.net.
