The second annual Martha’s Vineyard Gospel Festival will return Monday, Aug. 17, to the historic Old Whaling Church in Edgartown, Massachusetts, bringing together nationally recognized gospel artists for an evening focused on music, faith and supporting residents facing food insecurity and housing challenges.
Presented by the Vineyard Grace Foundation, the festival was created to connect the power of gospel music with efforts to support year-round residents and local organizations addressing some of the island’s most pressing challenges.
“Our mission is to unite the transforming power of gospel music with compassionate action,” said Naida Davidson, founder and executive producer of the festival.
The event comes as many year-round residents of Martha’s Vineyard continue to face economic pressures. According to the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital Community Health Needs Assessment, the island needs thousands of additional affordable housing units, while the island food pantry serves more than a quarter of the Vineyard’s year-round population.
Proceeds from ticket sales, sponsorships and donations will support efforts to address hunger, housing instability and other community needs across Martha’s Vineyard.
This year’s festival lineup features Grammy-nominated recording artist and evening headliner Wintley Phipps, award-winning worship leader Lena Byrd Miles, recording artist Aaron Crouch, contemporary gospel vocalist Rodney Boyden, inspirational performer Mekhi McClain and emerging artist TAJ.
“Every performance, every partnership, and every act of generosity becomes another opportunity to strengthen the Island we all cherish,” Davidson emphasized.
The Martha’s Vineyard Gospel Festival begins at 5 p.m., with doors opening at 4:30 p.m. at the Old Whaling Church in Edgartown, Massachusetts.
