A connection will be sought when the members of the Sonshine Singers present their annual music ministry at 7 p.m. Feb. 18-19 and 2 p.m. Feb. 20 at First United Methodist Church, 127 N. 10th St.

“The main thing for Sonshine is it inspires people in their faith,” said Jean Johnson, publicity chairman for the group. “This ministry really touches people’s hearts and souls, and that makes it all worthwhile.”

A veteran of the interdenominational group, Johnson has been involved with the Sonshine Singers for more than 10 years. With each ministry, she said, the musical selection seems to get better than the one before – and this year is no different.

“The program is very heart-warming and I think people will really enjoy it,” Johnson said.

Fellow chorus member Mike Patten, of Spencer, agreed.

“The literature they pick out every year is wonderful, which I appreciate,” he said.

Titled “Settled at the Cross,” this year’s ministry includes a variety of anthems from heartfelt pieces such as the title song that seeks to dispel any doubt of God’s love, to “Cornerstone,” “Bless This House,” and “Language of Canaan,” an anthem about the desire to speak in a way that clearly expresses a message of God’s love.

More up-beat gospel songs are also included in the program, such as “A Wonderful Time Up There,” “King Jesus is Coming,” “He is the Rock,” and “I’ve Been Redeemed.”

“This year’s show has a lot of new numbers,” said Lisa Binder, from Alta, “and, as always, it’s the power of God’s word through song touching so many lives.”

That power touches both those seated in the audience, as well as those who perform in the chorus.

“I love to sing,” said Carolyn Bergman, of Fort Dodge, “and it is such a blessing to each one of us. By sharing in our faith and our worship, we’ve become a family. We are up-lifting people in their life struggles, and it’s so effective because we truly are a family and the audiences can feel it.”

Admission to the performances is free, but a freewill offering will be accepted. Also, CDs of previous ministries will be available for purchase.

This year marks the 17th ministry for the volunteer group of area vocalists. The chorus is directed by Armona Redenius with John Zuerrer serving as the assistant director.

Performing with the group are pianist Shelly Bottorff, assistant pianist Janece Valentine, and percussionist Dean Davis.

Also part of the instrumental ensemble are Steve Kelleher, bass; Dee Murman, flute; Tim Miller, trumpet; Kathy Yoakam, French horn; Nick Moore and Brent Meyer, trombones; Cari Hepperle, oboe; and a string ensemble featuring Tammi, Amanda and Bill Secor. In addition, vocal soloists featured this year will be Lisa Binder, Don Bergman, Lynda Mumm, and Ron Norine.

In addition to members from Fort Dodge, the ranks of the Sonshine Singers includes people from approximately 45 area churches who travel from Grimes, Spencer, Callender, Cresco, Hartley, Alta, Otho, Gilmore City, Humboldt, Waterloo, Storm Lake, Webster City, Gowrie, Duncombe, Manson, Barnum, Palmer, Pomeroy, Perry, Stratford and Moorland.