The all new “Be Kind Concert Series” begins next week, on Thursday, March 26, at 6 p.m. in the First United Methodist Church courtyard, located in the heart of Alexandria’s historic Garden District.
First up is local artist Bradley Wilson, a young singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Alexandria. Bradley released his first single, “Missin Me,” in 2024, followed in January 2025 by “Lagniappe,” recorded with fellow musician Brock Bordelon — a title that reflects his Louisiana roots.
His recent single “Mask” was released ahead of his just-released album Better In Texas, available March 6.
Drawing inspiration from artists such as Eagles, John Mayer, and Zach Bryan, Bradley brings a melodic, roots-influenced sound shaped by both classic rock and contemporary Americana. Admission is free, and a love offering will be collected during the concert to provide direct support for the musician. Bradley’s music can be found online via linktr.ee/bradleyrosswilson.
This three-part outdoor series is designed to bring the community together through live music in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks to enjoy a spring evening outdoors. The series grows out of the church’s broader vision of creating healing, welcoming spaces where strangers become family and the community becomes a masterpiece of God’s grace.
Kelly Pepper, who helped shape the initiative, describes the vision in simple terms: “As a Garden District neighbor, I’m proud of the church’s history of using the arts to bring people together. ‘Be Kind’ reflects that spirit of creating space for connection, conversation, and kindness in the heart of our community.”
With the vision of creating space where all voices are welcomed, belonging is nurtured, and connection leads to healing, Senior Pastor Reverend Kennon Pickett adds, “At FUMCA, we are committed to inspire positive change by creating opportunities for neighbors to feel supported and uplifted, every individual is empowered to belong, and strangers come together as a caring community—building a world shaped by kindness and connection. That is simply what the ‘Be Kind’ series aims to do.”
Known locally for celebrating creativity through events such as the upcoming Tom Peyton Memorial Arts Festival (April 17–26), First United Methodist Church continues its commitment to fostering community through the arts with this new outdoor gathering experience. Future concert dates are April 23 and May 28. Featured artists will be announced soon at fumca.org website.
The “Be Kind Concert Series” is sponsored by Operation Kindness, a community initiative of the Nell Shehee Foundation promoting kindness and service through acts of generosity and civic engagement. It’s OK to be kind!
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