David Phelps performing a solo piece. (Photo by Billy Graham Evangelistic Association)

Gospel musician David Phelps will perform at Pioneer Drive Baptist Church on Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. for his It Must Be Christmas 20th Anniversary Tour.

Phelps is a Christian vocalist who has performed both independently and with the Gaither Vocal Band. During his time as a recording artist, he has been awarded Dove Awards, Grammy Awards and numerous platinum-selling recording projects.

John Cooper, former executive director at Abilene Hope Haven, first contacted Phelps to host the benefit concert last year. The concert was held at the Abilene Convention Center on Nov. 18.

This year, Katherine Bisson, executive director at Abilene Hope Haven, coordinated the event to build a tradition. Bisson assisted in planning the event last year but took over following Cooper’s departure.

Bisson said Cooper originally reached out to Phelps because he was a fan of his previous work.

“I attended the concert last year and was so impressed with his vocal performance and wanted him to come back,” Bisson said. “I loved how festive and family-friendly the performance was.”

All of the proceeds from the concert will go directly to Abilene Hope Haven as a result of local sponsorships including Senter Realtors, CBS Insurance, the Dodge Jones Foundation, the Diane Graves Owen Foundation and KTAB.

“I hope that people get into the Christmas spirit and are reminded of what the holiday is all about,” Bisson said. “The song selection and {Phelps’s} vocals are captivating.”

Phelps said Abilene Hope Haven is not the only organization he partnered with on the tour – he has two other shows in which local organizations from those cities will contribute.

“When we get an opportunity that works with our schedule and the organizations, we love to be a part of making a difference in tangible ways,” Phelps said. “Abilene Hope Haven contacted us and it was something we believe in.”

During the intermission, Bisson will speak to those in attendance about Abilene Hope Haven. Then, a video will be projected featuring a local homeless individual who was once housed by Abilene Hope Haven.

“Getting to hear his personal testimony will be a delight,” Bisson said. “Hearing him share his story is truly touching and heart-warming.”

Rosten Callarman, housing navigator at Abilene Hope Haven, said the concert will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“Phelps is easily one of the best tenors in the world,” Callarman said. “His extraordinary talent combined with his contemporary gospel style is a perfect fit for Abilene.”

Callarman said he is excited for the concert, and the effect it could have on the community.

“I hope everyone who attends is uplifted by his performance and leaves with a greater understanding of our work and the lives of our neighbors experiencing homelessness,” Callarman said.

Phelps said he and his team are honored to be a part of Abilene Hope Haven’s mission.

“Since I began performing at the age of 18, I’ve always wanted to bring people hope,” said Phelps. “If by hearing a song people can be inspired to hope more in their lives, I feel I’ve fulfilled my purpose.”

Tickets are available for purchase at www.abilenehopehaven.org/