Voices of Hope a free program of music and readings not political or religious, will be presented at 3 p.m. Oct. 19 in the sanctuary of the Congregational Church in Boothbay Harbor.

Concert goers will be inspired by American music performed by Timothy Wissler, retired Organist from the Cathedral in Atlanta, the husband and wife duo pianists Timothy and Anne Wissler, The Handbell Choir and Vocal Choir of the Congregational Church, Virginia Flanagan, harpist, Carolyn Lanigan, flutist, Genie O'Connell, conductor and pianist, and singer/songwriter John Schindler.

The concert is the brainchild of Tim Wissler and Genie O'Connell who meet regularly when Tim is in town and the chat often turns to organ and music issues and ideas. Last year both organists were experiencing a lack of excitement about preparing for the 250th anniversary of our country, perhaps because they weren't excited about what they had for patriotic repertoire. After a winter of thinking they came together again and decided that a fun program needed to happen and they zeroed in on the ideas of comfort and hope. Thus Voices of Hope was born.

Concertgoers will get to hear not only musical favorites such as "Fanfare for the Common Man", "Shenandoah", "Simple Gifts", and "The Promise of Living", but readings taken from writings from before, during, and following the Revolutionary War that did and continue to inspire. There will even be two opportunities for the audience to sing well-known and much loved American favorites.

Nothing provides comfort for the soul like singing together with other people. The approximately one hour program is not intended to be political or religious. It is free, appropriate for all ages, and offers a reception afterwards. Come and spend an hour recharging your soul's battery.