Visitors from Kamloops First Baptist Church and Summit Drive Baptist Church to met with the Barriere Bethany Baptist Church congregation on May 24th. Afterwards the visitors were ready to sit quietly and enjoy listening to entertainer Gordie West’s old time country and Gospel songs; it was a gentle and pleasant close to a busy day.
Gordie West says he began his music career when he was just a teenager. He toured for some years as the lead male singer for a country band, and in 1976 went to England as the “Calgary Cowboy”. His passion was to promote the Calgary Stampede, and he did it throughout Canada and many countries from North America to the Orient. In 1990 it was time to come home to Calgary and eventually to his North Thompson Valley ranch in McLure. He also becomes a tour director at times, showing visitors the beauty of western Canada.
The three Baptist Churches certainly chose one of the best old time singers in B.C. to entertain their members and Barriere residents for the afternoon’s concert.
Barriere Bethany Baptist Church members, along with the Kamloops Churches, put the entire event together, beginning with a tour of Sun Peaks, and from there to Barriere for a fantastic lunch for about 70 people prepared entirely by volunteers. Members of the Bethany congregation mentioned “There was standing room only in the Barriere Pentecostal Church” where the event was held. It had been decided that this was the best location for its size and the easy access for seniors to come attend.
Before everyone left for Kamloops, tea, coffee and the most delicious home baked pastries and cookies were available to everyone, a tasty treat before the homeward drive.
The organizers agreed that the event was well received by everyone, and that due to the great co-operation of all those involved it went very well.
Gordie West once again delighted his audience with his old time favorites and well loved Gospel songs; something he has done successfully for many years.