Milk River Gospel Jamboree

Many of us are familiar with not having things go the way we planned or hoped for and have learned to be resilient in our efforts, be patient and wait for a message for guidance. That is how the Milk River Gospel Jamboree has looked at the play book lately and took a second look at options.

When medical issues arose in the world of John and Suzanne Koss, who are strong supporters and key individuals in the local jamboree, took the upper hand, they had to cancel the fall jamboree and concentrate on their health. They are still feeling some of the issues from the incidents, however they are continuing to rely on the Lord for answers, strength, and guidance as they meander their way through the obstacles.

With the fall event on hold, things fell together for holding the jamboree on Sunday, January 12th at 3 p.m. at the Malta High School auditorium; the people showed up and loved the program they were gifted to see.

The program opened with Koss welcoming the group, as he has many years, and said a prayer for those attending and the musicians. Bill Scheffelmear provided a testimony on his battle with cancer and gave thanks and praise that he is now in remission.

Groups from around the countryside provided the gospel and uplifting messages. Ed Doney, from Harlem, shared songs, mostly ones he had written. He spoke about one about the blue skies of Montana, which he had started to write some time ago and decided the gospel song was befitting to be shared at the jamboree.

The "Wet Weather Band" is a group from Turner and originated out there on the prickly sand blown dryland when they actually had too much moisture and so they were unable to farm. As a result the group got together and started playing seven or eight years ago and have kept together since, playing gospel hymns of praise. The group is a combined effort of VanVoast, Kimmel, Hickel, Mohar and Jones.

Grace Fellowship and Elim Lutheran Churches each had a group add to the delightful sounds.

From the Assembly of God Church Jim Fauth, Dave Hines, Jason Hellie and John Koss also brought their various skills and talents to the room.

The use of the auditorium and cafeteria facilities were compliments of the Malta School administration and greatly appreciated, as was the use of the school classrooms.

About 80 people attended and "PIES, OH WERE THERE PIES!" Koss said. Ice cream and pie were served and there was plenty with the remaining pies offered for sale.

Summing up the successful day, Koss stated, "What a blessing, what a blessing!" He added, "...praise God for the generosity of people."

The offering to go toward expenses for the main jamboree scheduled for June 27, 28, and 29th amounted to $3,321.37. The mailing address for the MRGJ is PO Box 67 should anyone wish to contribute to the next session. The website is mrgjamboree.org and has a list of the groups and individuals that will be here this summer.