First United Methodist Church of Alexandria was filled with gospel music, great food, fellowship, and plenty of energy on Saturday, September 19, as more than 100 people gathered for FUMCA’s inaugural Gospel Brunch. The free event sold out weeks in advance, bringing together a full house for a celebration of music, worship, food, and fellowship. From the opening song to the final performance, the morning was marked by a great crowd, outstanding food, and an atmosphere full of joy.
The musical performance was led by FUMCA Worship and Music Director Elizabeth Nix, with local up-and-coming guitarist Taylor Gardner, Grammy Award-winning bassist Lincoln Landry, FUMCA Senior Pastor Rev. Kennon Pickett on keyboard and vocals, and Derrick Washington on drums. Taylor and vocalist Coreen Lee are also members of FUMCA’s “Grace Life Band”, which leads the church’s 8:30AM contemporary worship with Elizabeth each Sunday. The vocal lineup included Corliss Smith, Carly Bratcher, Jacob Braud, Janet Cargle, Megan Falcone, Claire Heatherwick, and Coreen Lee, who shared their talents throughout the morning.
The musical program included gospel favorites and beloved hymns such as “This Little Light of Mine,” “Every Praise,” “That’s My King,” “Jesus Will,” “I Need Your Glory,” “Leaning on the Everlasting Arms,” “The Old Rugged Cross,” “Precious Lord, Take My Hand,” “Shall Not Want,” “Blessed Assurance,” “Let Down Your Net,” “Praise Is the Breakthrough,” and “Goodness of God.”
A special part of the morning was the appearance of Healing Voices of Alexandria, a community choir of women formed in 2025. The group regularly visits assisted living and nursing facilities throughout the area, sharing joyful songs that bring encouragement, comfort, and smiles to residents. Their performance of “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” was a highlight of the program.
Praises and positive feedback made it clear that there is an appetite for more events like this at FUMCA. Based on the success of the inaugural Gospel Brunch and the enthusiastic feedback from those who attended, FUMCA plans to offer the event at least once a year in the future.
First United Methodist Church of Alexandria extends its thanks to all of the singers, musicians, volunteers, kitchen team members, sound crew, and everyone else who helped make the event possible. Their time, talent, and service made the first Gospel Brunch a memorable morning for everyone in attendance. Reverend Kennon stated that it was a great feeling to look out and see the diversity of our community represented at a morning of food, fellowship, and worship in the Garden District, and he looks forward to making it a recurring part of the church’s future community offerings.
