| In
September 1963, the church held its first Annual Gospel Concert
at DuSable High School, featuring the Christian Tabernacle
Ensemble. Presented with "Christian Dignity",
it was an unforgettable night in song. James
Cleveland & the James Cleveland Singers as well
as the great Mahalia
Jackson were their special guest. In 1964 the second
Annual Gospel Concert was also held at DuSable High School; this
time featuring the newly formed Christian Tabernacle Concert Choir.
Pastor Woods and his choir was the first black Pastor and church
choir to utilize McCormick
Place for a gospel experience as well as the Civic
Opera House and the Auditorium Theater. Each year on the last
Sunday and Monday in September, Pastor Maceo L. Woods and the
Christian Tabernacle Concert Choir presents "With Christian
Dignity & Gospel Elegance," their Annual Gospel Concert.
The year 2005 marked forty third year of presenting extraordinary
talent, and total commitment to this endeavor.
Pastor
Maceo L. Woods is so active in the ministry and community; one
wonders how he finds the time to attend every church meeting as
well as every choir rehearsal. He can be found at the church Monday
through Sunday working for the Lord. Pastor Woods hasn't taken
a vacation in the last 7 years due to his committed efforts in
kingdom building. His most pressing concern centers around his
Gospel Supreme Foundation, which
not only helps set up local businesses for young people, but assists
in buying old abandoned buildings in urban areas so that they
might be converted into halfway houses for the poor, with special
emphasis on destitute mothers and their children. Pastor Woods'
ministry also encompasses the Christian Tabernacle barbershop,
furniture store, cosmetology academy & physical fitness center.
His fully computerized ministry, encompasses the capacity for
the Christian Tabernacle Choir to record their weekly TV cable
program, "The Good News Hour" broadcast,
aired on cable channel 25, both at 8 p.m. on Saturday evenings,
and at 8 a.m. on Sunday mornings. One branch of the foundation
finances the Gold Star Award, a yearly event whereby a trophy
is awarded to gospel singers and choirs for faithful and dedicated
service in the fields of gospel music. Albertina Walker,
The Barrett Sisters, Dr. Robert Wooten Sr. and Brother
Eugene Smith of the famed Roberta Martin Singers are
just some of the many honorees.
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