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Trip To India Was A High Note For Christian Singer

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By CAROL ABBOTT

Published: February 20, 2008

In December 2007, I had the most rewarding experience I have had in my career as a Christian singer at the annual citywide Christmas event, Songs of the Season. The event was held in Calcutta, India, a place I had not dreamed of going. The invitation to be the guest artist at this event was extended in January 2007 by John and Faith Higgins, missionaries to Calcutta.

I met the Higginses more than 20 years ago while on the music faculty at Southeastern University in Lakeland. During that time, John Higgins was on sabbatical from the mission field and was serving as a vice president at the university. Until they extended the invitation, my correspondence with the Higginses had been limited to a yearly Christmas letter. However, when the Christmas letter included an invitation to visit Calcutta, my first thought was, "no, too far, too expensive and too much time away from home."

I put the letter aside with the thought, "maybe at another time."

Immediately after my decision, I was bombarded with information concerning missions and outreach. My spiritual conscience began tugging at my heart and, well, you can guess the rest.

I spent 2007 preparing for this trip, which included creating promotional materials, raising financial support, selecting concert material and everything in between. I was blessed to have faithful friends who donated their professional time and services to help me.

Finally, December arrived and my traveling companion, my 11-year-old daughter, Emilie, and I left for our trip, an adventure halfway around the world. After 24 hours in travel, we finally arrived, and our adventure began. Although we did not adjust to the time change, we immediately adjusted to the customs and fell in love with the Indian people. There were enormous differences in our culture, dress and lifestyles, but innately, people are the same everywhere in our world.

In addition to the four consecutive nights of concerts, I also sang at orphanages, benevolence gatherings and church services. I was incredibly moved by the graciousness and gratefulness of the Indian people I met, most of whom lived in extreme poverty.

I was filled with a deep respect for people who give of their lives to serve others, leaving the comforts of home and joyfully accepting the "call." I was humbled and honored to have the opportunity to use my talents to serve and encourage others. It was an amazing experience that I will not forget, and one that I was privileged to have!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carol Abbott is director of music and arts at Celebration Church in Valrico and a private vocal teacher. This fall, she will lead youth and adult vocal ensembles at the Patel Conservatory at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center. Here are her thoughts about a recent visit to India.

Carol Abbott can be reached at cabbott@earthlink.net.

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