Gospel Supreme 2008 was, indeed, a night of Christian dignity and gospel elegance. According to the founder and pastor of Christian Tabernacle, Rev. Maceo Woods, “The idea was to start on time and do things with excellence ... not to take away from the spirit ... but I wanted to leave a legacy where people would have an appreciation for an evening that had been well planned,” Woods said.

On Sept. 21, two distinct groups of worshippers united together for a day of combined celebration and fellowship. Third Baptist Church of Chicago and the Congregation B’nai Jehoshua Beth Elohim demonstrated the power of “we” by opening their minds and hearts to unite for one common goal: to worship.

If the money flows in from fundraising efforts, Pilgrim Baptist Church, the birthplace of gospel music and where late gospel singer Mahalia Jackson sang in the choir, could re-open possibly within the next five years, according to plans unveiled Sept. 21.