An evening of gospel music drew an audience of around 200 people Sunday to the “African American Heritage Gospel Explosion.”

The Office of Minority Affairs sponsored the event in the Grand Ballroom of the Martin Luther King Jr. University Union.

Minister Claude Magee, master of ceremonies, encouraged the audience to stand and clap along with the music.

“I want you to enjoy the service and accept your blessings,” Magee said.

Minister Mark Young gave the opening prayer, telling the audience to receive their blessings and accept the Holy Spirit. He wanted everyone to leave with a filled heart and an open mind.

As many choirs from Illinois and Indiana performed at the event, the audience clapped, sang and danced along with the music.

Drums, piano and tambourines accompanied the gospel singers.

The Unity Praise Team enlivened the crowd to wave their hands as they sang “I’m A Soldier” and “Where The Spirit Is.”

The United Pentecostal Tabernacle Choir represented the youth and sang “There is a God” and “Jesus Will Welcome Me.”

Other choirs that performed at the “Gospel Explosion” were the Unity Gospel Choir, Second Baptist Choir, Illinois State University Interdenominational Youth Choir, Southern Illinois University and Indiana State Ebony Majestic Choir.

Soloist Chelsea Waller also sang in the service.