Gospel At Trump Inauguration
It is not unusual for African American artists to perform at presidential inaugural festivities and gospel has had its place. Yolanda Adams and BeBe Winans helped kick off Inauguration festivities at events for President Barack Obama’s inauguration, as did the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. Historically, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir has performed at the inaugurations of Presidents Johnson and Nixon. Marian Anderson sang at the 1961 inauguration of President Kennedy.
As for this year’s roster of inauguration performers, GMA Hall of Fame members, The Nelons, will sing ‘God Bless America’ during the Laying of the Wreath Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, and Aaron & Amanda Crabb will perform at the Family Research Council’s Faith Freedom & Future Inaugural Ball.
Jonathan McReynolds received a request from the Trump committee and shared details of his feelings regarding his decision not to accept.
In an article on his website he said:
“I respectfully declined. “Respectfully” because Donald Trump is, in fact, soon to be the president of the United States. Regardless of his history, his quotes, and even his disrespect of President Obama and others, as a man, as a man of God, you must respect the position of even those you don’t agree with. We bless those that curse us. Sucks sometimes, but it’s our challenge. I declined because I simply don’t believe this opportunity was for ME. (I wouldn’t have been able to sing any “Life Music” on my terms either.) God’s people absolutely need to be there though, whether they are praying, speaking, or singing. I pray the Body of Christ NEVER gets comfortable publicly rebuking ITSELF, it’s own people, when they take meetings, take opportunities, to affect and touch leaders, especially the ones we don’t agree with.”
He also commended fellow gospel artist Travis Greene on his bravery, saying that he believes Greene “will be a GREAT ambassador for Christ there. I believe God with Him that this will be fruitful for him…Let’s support and pray for his IMPACT!” Greene has accepted an opportunity to perform along with artist Chrisette Michelle at one of the inaugural balls, sharing his process and decision in a video on Instagram.
Greene says he believes this is an opportunity to help redefine culture, and to take “the light and love of Jesus, where it belongs.”
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