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The community is invited to sing the sweet old sounds of the church at HymnFest 24, an old-fashioned hymn sing-along in the historic St. Luke’s church at Old Cahawba at 3 p.m. Sunday Nov 3.

The hymnsing is free and open to all; those who wish to give a donation are welcome to give: all gifts will be earmarked for hurricane relief efforts in North Carolina.

“Hymnfest started last year as a way to build community fellowship after the Jan. 12 2023 tornado, that caused so much damage and loss in Selma,” said Hymnfest Coordinator Christine Weerts. “Research shows that singing together builds positive vibes and harmonious feelings. Singing the hymns of the church seemed a good way to rebuild our spirits.”

“We know how devastating storms can be, so if anyone wants to give, all donations will be sent to Samaritan’s Purse, based in Boone, NC. Their disaster relief team spent over a year in Selma after the tornado, one of the longest volunteer efforts we saw, so it seems appropriate to share any donations to their efforts in their hard-hit home state after the hurricane.

“At the same time, we want everyone to know this event is free and open to all through generous grants from donors.”

The hymnsing, which begins with everyone joining in the beautiful Amazing Grace, is free and open to all – come as you are. Other hymns include favorites like Rock of Ages, What a Friend we Have in Jesus, When we All get to heaven and Just a little talk with Jesus. Everyone will receive hymnals to join the singing, led by local church choirs.

Hymnfest 24 is sponsored by The Cahaba Foundation, the Mary E. Stallworth Foundation Trust, Cahawba Advisory Committee, First Cahawba Bank, Thrivent Financial, Old Cahawba Archaeological Park and the Alabama Historical Commission.Old Cahawba is located 13 miles west of Selma at the confluence of the Alabama and Cahaba Rivers. Take Hwy. 22, to Co. Rd. 9, then left on Co. Rd. 2.

For questions, call the Park at 334-872-8058.