Sherri Shepherd (center) and NFL PLAYERS Choir perform during Super Bowl Gospel 2013 at UNO Lakefront Arena on February 1, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Skip Bolen/Getty Images North America)
Super Bowl weekend kicked of with the Super Bowl Gospel Celebration held at UNO Lakefront Arena on Friday, Feb. 1, in New Orleans, La. The celebration is in its 14th year and was a spirited event with lots of exciting performances and praise. "The View" co-host Sherri Shepherd and GRAMMY winner Kirk Franklin hosted the celebration.
There were performances by Donnie McClurkin, Pastor Marvin Winans, Bishop Paul Morton, Fantasia, Myron Butler, Lecrae. The immensely popular NFL Players Choir, made up of current and former players, also performed.
GRAMMY-nominated artist Fantasia sang a duet with her mother, Diana Barrino Barber. Fantasia also sang "Nobody Greater." Bishop Paul Morton sang "Let It Rain." These were just some of the many great performances throughout the evening and the audience responded accordingly. Those who attended kept social media buzzing about the atmosphere in the room.
Baltimore Raven Ray Lewis received The Lifetime of Inspiration Award for his faith-filled determination to overcome trials and tribulations on and off the field, while recognizing him for his remarkable football career. This is only the second time the award has been given. Tony Dungy was the previous winner.
"His accomplishments and triumphs have inspired football fans, teammates and colleagues - a true representation of what the essence of the convergence of faith and football is all about," says Melanie Few-Harrison, creator & producer of Super Bowl Gospel Celebration. As a big supporter of the event, Ray Lewis has attended many Super Bowl Gospel Celebrations and sang in the NFL Players Choir, so we are beyond thrilled to honor him in what is sure to be a memorable year."
SOURCE: Examiner.com
