Teenage Gospel Rock Group to Gain Global Exposure for Their Performance of Struggles and Hope

Contact:    
Kelly C. Martini, communications director/information officer,
United Methodist Women's Division
Press Room: 714-765-2098; Cell Phone: 610-996-2124; Office Phone: 212-870-3729

NEW YORK, April 24 -- A San Diego-based teenage gospel rock group, comprised of the children of female ex-offenders, will gain global exposure with their performance May 5 at 9:00 a.m., at the Anaheim Convention Center in front of approximately 8,000 women from around the nation and world.

Sanctified Soul Jahz will perform at the United Methodist Women's Assembly, a quadrennial event of the one-million member organization, and will offer a unique perspective on life and handling tough circumstances.

The gospel rock group was started by the teenagers of women living at the New Entra Casa, a project of hope for children surviving the worst family circumstances.  During their performance, group members will testify with personal stories about their life's struggles.

New Entra Casa, which began in 1972 in San Diego, was created by the Wesleyan Service Guild, a predecessor group of United Methodist Women.  The House has gained a reputation for its cutting edge approach to giving female ex-offenders and their families a place to live and skills for life once they are released from prison.

United Methodist Women in Southern California continue to work closely with the house to meet women's needs and help imprisoned mothers with families.

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