By Lilyana Canales | Arts & Life Writer
One of Baylor’s oldest homecoming traditions has a new home.
After decades of Singspiration celebrations in Seventh and James Baptist Church sanctuary, which was demolished this summer, the 78th annual service is now being held in Jones Concert Hall of the Glennis McCrary Music Building.
The event has a free registration and will take place 7 to 8 p.m. Friday. Those who cannot attend in person but wish to celebrate may join Singspiration via livestream.
Since its beginning, Singspiration has invited Baylor alumni, students and parents to worship and praise together. The worship night has been a faith-filled expression of Baylor spirit, and unique in its invitation for worship regardless of denominational differences.
Chason Disheroon, interim director of the Dunn Center for Christian Music Studies, said he is excited for the opportunity to bring together generations of Baylor alumni, students and friends for a collective moment of worship.
“This year’s Singspiration will feature performances by the Baylor University Men’s Choir and the Baylor Religious Hour Choir, each presenting selections as part of the service,” Disheroon said. “Their participation reflects Baylor’s rich tradition of musical excellence and helps create a worship experience that is both inspiring and deeply connected to the university’s heritage.”
By adopting an interdenominational worship practice, Singspiration has stood out not only as a tradition, but also a demonstration of the unity of faith. The event’s inclusion of all denominations is a goal that is integral to BRH Choir as well.
Portland junior Madison Tietze, president of BRH Choir, said that the choir exists to share the love of God through worship and praise. Her favorite part of choir is the community of faith and witnessing the beauty of the unity of believers while worshipping at various different churches.
As for Singspiration, one of her favorite memories was from last year’s celebration, when a BRH alum filmed the choir’s rehearsal.
“He was just like, ‘I just love hearing y’all sing and I just feel so blessed by the experience,'” Tietze said.
Tietze said the choir has gained many alumni since its founding.
“It’s just so beautiful and amazing, and especially since we were founded in 1948,” Tietze said. “We have a pretty big alumni base that [is] all different ages. It’s just a really special experience to be part of.”
Disheroon said that last year’s celebration was memorable because it provided fresh perspectives and different leadership voices while honoring traditions that have defined the event for many generations.
Though the location has changed this year, the spirit of the event — to corporately honor the Christian heritage of Baylor — has remained the same.
“This year will be especially meaningful as we welcome the event into Jones Concert Hall for the first time in Homecoming history,” Disheroon said. “With orchestra, choirs, alumni leaders and the broader Baylor community all contributing, the evening will celebrate cherished traditions while also marking a new chapter for this beloved gathering.”
