African Children’s Choir to perform at Youngsville church as part of national tour

Songs of Hope Cross Continents to Reach Acadiana

YOUNGSVILLE, La. — The African Children’s Choir is bringing a message of hope, faith, and transformation to Louisiana later this month as they prepare to worship with the Youngsville community. Through joyful songs and heartfelt hymns, the choir seeks not only to praise God but to raise awareness and support for African children living in extreme poverty. Their mission reflects Psalm 96:1: “Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth.”

A Night of Worship at First Assembly of God

The choir, composed of 17 children primarily from Uganda between the ages of 7 and 10, will perform on Friday, January 30, at 7:00 p.m. at First Assembly of God Church in Youngsville. Admission is free, and all donations collected will support Music for Life and the African Children’s Choir program. These contributions help provide full educational sponsorships for choir members—from primary school through university—offering a tangible pathway out of poverty. Proverbs 22:6 reminds believers of the power of education, encouraging us to “train up a child in the way he should go.”

A Mission Born from the Love of Christ

Founded in 1984 by Canadian humanitarian Ray Barnett, the African Children’s Choir began with a simple yet profound calling. Barnett, described as a man “compelled by the love of Christ,” traveled to Uganda to provide humanitarian aid after years of violent conflict. According to choir manager Tina Sipp, his vision was sparked when a young orphan sang praise songs throughout a journey to safety. “Ray got the idea of bringing a choir of children out to highlight the resiliency, dignity, beauty and potential of African children,” she said. His life’s work echoes James 1:27, which calls believers to care for orphans and those in distress.

Education That Creates a Ripple Effect

Through Music for Life, the humanitarian organization founded to continue Barnett’s mission, hundreds of Ugandan youth have graduated into higher education and meaningful careers. The organization has since established schools, children’s homes, and development programs in Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa. Sipp noted that many children cannot even afford government schooling. “Through educating as many children as we can, each child becomes a pebble in the pond, creating a ripple effect,” she said. This impact reflects Hosea 4:6, reminding us that knowledge and opportunity can transform lives and communities.

Worship, Dignity, and Opportunity

While on tour, the children are lovingly cared for by Ugandan and North American chaperones and hosted by families connected through local churches. Their performances feature familiar hymns blended with African cultural expression in a program titled Just As I Am. Rather than focusing on hardship, the choir celebrates God-given talent and hope. As Matthew 5:16 teaches, their light shines before others, pointing hearts toward God.

A Prayer for the Children and the Community

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the African Children’s Choir and the joy they bring through worship. Bless the children, their families, and the ministries that support them. Open hearts in our community to generosity, compassion, and faith-filled action. May these songs inspire lasting change, and may every child be given the opportunity to fulfill the purpose You have placed within them. In Jesus’ name, Amen.