Kingston Congregational Church is inviting the public to an evening of music and reflection with its upcoming Tracy Chapman Chapel presentation, highlighting the connection between social justice and spirituality. The event encourages attendees to consider the ways music can foster healing and unity during challenging times.
The chapel, scheduled for Friday, January 23, is designed to resemble a concert but functions as a spiritual gathering. Known as The Tracy Chapman Chapel Vol. 2, it follows the successful first edition held last year. Organizers emphasize that the event is not a tribute show but a space to explore the spiritual themes present in Chapman’s music.
“A musical and spiritual gathering, the chapel combines live performances with thoughtful commentary and reflection,” said Eden Casteel, the church’s minister of music. The organizers aim to highlight Chapman’s spiritual dimension, which is present even in her non-religious songs, and encourage the audience to engage deeply with the material.
Chapman’s catalog, known for blending social commentary with heartfelt storytelling, inspires reflection on justice, dignity, and hope. The church plans to leverage this repertoire to create a unifying community experience. Performances will include Chapman’s well-known songs and lesser-known tracks that explore personal struggles, faith, and social responsibility.
The performance lineup features diverse artists, including Kim Trusty, a blues, soul, and gospel singer, as well as Alexcia Christy of the Narragansett Tribe, jazz performer Paula Clare, and Mwalim DaPhunkee with The ZYG 808. The live band will support six dynamic singers, blending multiple musical styles while respecting Chapman’s work.
The evening will intersperse music with brief spiritual commentary and reflective questions from the Rev. Dr. Jan Gregory-Charpentier, encouraging audience participation and thoughtful engagement. The organizers hope the event will offer a space for unity, reflection, and inspiration in a time of social division.
