Wellpinit Gospel Songfest Under Way

The Spokane Tribal Powwow grounds will resound with gospel music of all kinds this weekend.

The annual Wellpinit Gospel Songfest, an interdenominational event, typically draws Indian and non-Indian musicians, singers and spectators from throughout the Inland Northwest.

Festivities began Friday and will continue through noon on Sunday. This year’s host group is Gordo Horn and the New Creation from the Blackfeet Reservation in Montana.

Songfest performers always include both amateur and seasoned individuals and groups. Everyone is welcome to sign up for a spot in the lineup. No preregistration is required.

While gospel and western are the clear favorites, all Christian musical styles are welcome. The music, however, must be live. No accompaniment tapes are allowed.

Free camping sites and hookups for RVs and trailers are available. People may bring their own food, purchase it from nearby stores, or eat the free meals that will be provided to all spectators and musicians.

The Spokane Tribe and the three churches on the reservation are sponsoring the free event.

For more information, call the Rev. Rod Burgess at (509) 258-7783; the Rev. Jake Morton at (509) 722-3007; or community representative Jim Wynne at (509) 258-9305.

To reach the Spokane Indian Reservation from Spokane, head west on Highway 2 to Reardan, then north on Highway 25 and follow the signs.