Legacy to the Church honors Bishop John D. Bright Sr.’s five decades of service to St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church of Atlantic City. The LP spotlights Bright’s final sermon, recorded in June 1972. The great preacher went to his eternal reward less than a month later. “Legacy to the Church” is the title of that sermon, which also comprises the first side of the LP.
Side two features each of St. James’ choirs – Children’s, Youth, Gospel, and Senior. All of it – recorded live in the church – is beautifully and lovingly done. Of particular note is the Youth Choir’s reverent version of Andrae Crouch’s “I Don’t Know Why He Loves Me” ... which serves as a fitting tribute to Bishop Bright.
I’m Robert Darden … “Shout! Black Gospel Music Moments” is produced by KWBU and the Black Gospel Music Preservation Program at Baylor University Libraries.