Athens will host the American debut of “Free to Worship” (FTW). FTW is a United Kingdom-based Zimbabwean Gospel ensemble who commit their talent and effort to spreading the gospel through music. The music ranges from traditional Afro-centric rhythms to lively contemporary Western styles.
The experience of attending a concert is unfettered worship using music as a catalyst. A typical person will toe- tap, clap to the music because of its infectious style which draws the listener to action. The producer of the show is Tawanda Sarireni, whom is known in Athens for his previous visits through sculpture exhibitions with” Mystery in Stone.” Additionally, some sculptures and paintings will be on exhibition for sale.
With such positive feedback from the public, Tawanda sees Athens as a great place to bring FTW to share the essence of African worship styles through varied types of music. The group will donate 10 percent of its proceeds to philanthropic interests in Zimbabwe to include hospitals and orphanages.
FTW will perform at First Baptist Church in Athens on Feb. 22 at 6:30 p.m.,Sunday morning for both services and Sunday evening at 4:30. There will be a free African hand drumming clinic held at the Recreational Outreach Center of First Baptist Church beginning at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday.
There will be a welcoming reception for the musicians after the first concert at First Baptist Church.
Tickets may be purchased online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/free-to-worship-tickets-10608555475 as well as at the door.
The cost is:
- $12 online
- $10 for adults,
- $7 for college students
- and $5 for children up to age 17
If you would like to experience a live performance that will leave you wanting more, then plan to attend and see how other cultures worship God in other parts of the world.
First Baptist Church of Athens – 105 S. Carroll St. Athens, Texas 75751 (903) 675-5135.
Schedule:
Saturday, Feb. 22 –
10:30 am – FREE African Drumming Workshop
6:30 -8:00 pm – Concert
8:00 – 8:30 pm – Free to Worship Welcome Reception
Sunday, Feb. 23
4:30 pm – Concert