A late-night conversation about using musical talents to create a safe and fun place of belonging has blossomed into the Good News Community Choir, at Wonthaggi Baptist Church (WBC).

Jacqui Paulson and her daughter Dani Paulson started the choir in February for both churchgoers and non-churchgoers who appreciate gospel-style music. The pair have organised many music events in the past and they noticed that their gospel-themed events were always a big hit. At the same time, they noticed that a lot of people who attended their events were socially isolated, and they wanted to create an opportunity for people to build connections.

“A big part of what we’re doing is making sure people feel comfortable coming along and building relationships while having lots of fun together,” Jacqui said. “Rehearsals are a safe space with a great community feel.”

“We did a lot of work at the start to make sure people felt included no matter who they were or where they came from,” Dani said. “It’s lovely to see this paying off now in the group’s positive culture – as soon as anyone new comes, people flock around them to make them feel welcome!”

Jacqui said the group was also a “good stepping-stone” for people to feel comfortable going to church. “At least half of our members don’t go to church and many don’t even have a faith in God, but they all appreciate the balance of songs that we sing, from songs of peace, love and social justice to jazzed-up church hymns. Often, we’ll have choir members tell us what’s going on in their lives, or people who are not Christians asking us to pray for them. Some people have started attending our church after coming to the choir. It has opened up a really positive connection with people outside the church, making it easier for people to cross that threshold.”

Good News Community Choir has around 35 members who meet twice a month at WBC, or weekly if a concert is on the horizon. Performances “really focus on life” with colourful outfits, sparkly hats and “lots of energy”.

Dani said it was wonderful to focus on polishing songs together and growing in musical skill, but the choir values people over perfection. “The music is just a tool. Ultimately, you need a heart for the community. It’s about accepting people where they’re at. It certainly doesn’t mean we can’t sound good, but if you forget the people I think it can be really damaging, so the music is secondary.”

The Paulsons keep in touch with members via email so that those who have been unable to attend can still feel part of the group. Instead of standing in rows, they rehearse in a circle for the encouragement of seeing each other’s faces. “We don’t require anybody to be able to read music, but we teach songs line by line so it’s more accessible,” Jacqui said.

The choir is set to perform at the Gippsland Acappella Festival in March 2025, then at a WBC concert in the April school holidays along with other community music groups.

“The group is a blessing for us as much as the members,” Dani said. “When I go to choir, I always feel rejuvenated. It’s partly the people in the group but also the songs about love and God and community. As we sing these songs together it gives us the right focus.”