Entertainment
26 February, 2021
Singing for Vanuatu cyclone survivors
PORT Douglas local and internationally acclaimed opera singer Alteouise DeVaughn will perform at Mossman Seventh-Day Adventist Church next Friday, March 5, at 9:30am as part of the World Day of Prayer.
The World Day of Prayer brings together women of various races, cultures and traditions for a common day of prayer, and is celebrated annually in more than 170 countries on the first Friday in March.
More than 160 Queensland places of worship will take part in the ‘World Day of Prayer,’ and this year, offerings given on the day will go towards survivors of Cyclone Harold in Vanuatu.
Vanuatu received the brunt of Cyclone Harold less than a year ago, leaving devastation and death in its wake. Trauma counselling and support for those affected by natural disasters and domestic and sexual violence will be provided from the offerings given on March 5.
Local services will be held at Manunda’s Emmanuel Uniting Church, the Baptist Church in Innisfail, Pyramid Retirement Centre in Gordonvale, Mossman Seventh-day Adventist Church, and St Andrew’s Anglican Church in Port Douglas, besides a number of Tableland venues.
“Everyone – churched and unchurched – is welcome to attend, learn about Vanuatu, its culture, natural beauty and needs, and socialise over morning tea” said Joy Cornell, this year’s Mossman convenor.
“Our neighbouring nation is hit by eight to ten cyclones yearly, tsunamis, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. But the people are strong and resilient. They of all people realise the importance of Building on a Strong Foundation, this year’s emphasis.”
Mezzo soprano Alteouise, who has starred in roles from ‘Porgy and Bess’ to grand opera and won the Luciano Pavarotti International Voice Contest, is the daughter of a Baptist minister. Now living in Port Douglas, she loves singing the hymns of her childhood.
