2025 Johnny Jackson, Jr.

Gospel is Alive! Celebration

Presented by Peoples Health

The Johnny Jackson Jr. Gospel Is Alive! Celebration is presented by Peoples Health and is the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival’s annual educational workshop. It is a free community outreach program!


About the Program

The Johnny Jackson Jr. Gospel Is Alive! Celebration was named in honor of one of its biggest proponents, Johnny Jackson, Jr., a longtime member of the board of directors of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation. Through a partnership with the New Orleans Council on Aging, this event serves as an educational platform that engages senior citizens through gospel music, aiming to promote cultural appreciation, and create connections between generations, ultimately enriching the lives of participants and cultivating a deeper sense of community spirit. Past headliners have included renowned artists like Rance Allen and CeCe Winans. Admission is free and open to the public! All ages welcome. Norman Robinson returns as this year’s Master of Ceremonies.

When

Monday, April 28, 2025 at 9:30AM-11:30AM

Where

2515 Franklin Avenue, N.O 70117


Gospel is Alive is takes place at the original Franklin Avenue Baptist Church in Gentilly: Click for directions


2025 Lineup

Bishop Paul S. Morton and The Greater Sound Choir of Greater St. Stephen FGBC


Jessica Harvey & the Difference


Council of Aging Community Choir


Join us for a soulful experience filled with energetic Gospel music, vibrant praise, and heartfelt moments that will uplift and inspire. Dancing and rejoicing are encouraged!

2025 Honorees

Lifetime Achievement Award:

Craig Adams


Choir Award:

Jessica Harvey and the Difference


Louisiana Group Award:

Leo Jackson and the Melody Clouds



gospel is alive honoree committee

Howard Rodgers, III, Chair

Rev. Dr. Lois Dejean

LaQuan Fields-Carter

Caryn Rodgers- Battiste

Leonard Smith

Frank B. Stewart, Sr.

Photo Credit – Shawn Colin. Video Credit – Humble Beginnings

Peoples Health 

Peoples Health was established in 1994 as a health services administrator for the Louisiana market. Founded by physicians and part of UnitedHealthcare, the company administers a variety of Medicare Advantage plans offering medical benefits and prescription drug coverage to Louisiana residents. It provides a unique approach to wellness, care coordination and support services. Learn More.


the New Orleans Council on Aging

The New Orleans Council on Aging (NOCOA) exists to protect the rights, promote the well being, and enhance the self-esteem of New Orleans elderly by generating opportunities for self-reliance and independence. The New Orleans Council on Aging is a private, non-profit corporation which serves as the Area Agency on Aging for Orleans Parish. The agency is responsible for insuring that a comprehensive and coordinated assortment of social, recreational, educational, and nutritional services are provided to persons aged 60 and over in the City of New Orleans.

Presented by


In Partnership with