A Special 40th Anniversary Celebration
Thursday, November 19, 2026 | 7:00 PM
The Suffolk, Downtown Riverhead
This year Harvest Gospel welcomes new audiences to experience the power of song with its 40th Anniversary celebration at The Suffolk, Downtown Riverhead’s historic theater.
This 40th anniversary milestone celebration will feature a special tribute to Harvest Gospel founder Reverend Maryanne McElroy, who will receive a proclamation from Suffolk County Legislator Greg Doroski as recognition of her commitment to music, inclusivity, and community.
Join Us for This Milestone Celebration!
Experience an unforgettable evening of uplifting gospel music, community, and celebration as Harvest Gospel marks 40 incredible years!
Proceeds from ticket sales benefit East End Arts Council’s Francis Ligon Memorial Music Scholarship Fund.
Reverend Maryanne McElroy – Founder & Honoree
Reverend Maryanne McElroy has led the Harvest Gospel Concert Series for each of its 38 years. Her presence resounds as strongly as her voice as she captivates the choir singers and audience alike.
In 1969, Maryanne Lewter married Alvin Charles McElroy, Sr. and they moved to Petersburg, Virginia, where Mrs. McElroy taught voice at the Virginia State University while her husband earned his Masters Degree in Theology.
In 1975, the McElroys moved to Riverhead, New York where Rev. Alvin McElroy began his pastorate at the Friendship Baptist Church and Mrs. McElroy accepted the position of Minister of Music and Creative Worship.
The McElroys raised two children Alvin Charles McElroy, Jr., deceased, and Alethea McElroy, who remains in Riverhead and part of the Harvest Gospel Choir.
In 2008, after her call to the ministry, Mrs. McElroy was licensed by Pastor McElroy and the Friendship Baptist Church. On October 4, 2014, Mrs. McElroy was ordained as a minister and
presently serves full time as the Pastor of the Friendship Baptist Church.
A graduate of the prestigious Julliard School of Music, Rev. McElroy has performed professionally across the United States, including the Brooklyn Academy of Music, New York World’s Fair, and Carnegie Hall. She has directed many choirs, spoken for many organizations, and taught countless vocal and piano students over the last 40 years.
Rev. McElroy has unsurprisingly received numerous legistative proclimations and citations in acknowledgement of her service to the arts and the community.
Minister Byron Rashon Preston – Music Director
Byron Rashon Preston is a dedicated music educator, gospel music musician, and ministry leader whose journey in music and service began at an early age. At just 10 years old, he began playing the drums with the Harvest Gospel Concert Community Choir, establishing a foundation for his 27 year involvement with HGCC.
Byron graduated from Five Towns College with a Bachelor of Music (Mus.B.) in Music Education, with certification preparation in grades K–12.
Byron is happily married to his wife, Alexis, and they have been married for 10 years. Together, they share a commitment to faith, family, and service.
In addition to his musical background, he serves as Executive Pastor at the Galilee Church of God in Christ in Riverhead, New York, where he contributes to the leadership and ministry of the church.
His journey reflects a commitment to music, education, faith, and service. From his early beginnings with the Harvest Gospel Concert Community Choir to his work in music education and pastoral leadership, Byron Rashon Preston continues to represent the enduring connection between gospel music, spiritual development, and community engagement.
Pastor Bettina Pennon – Soloist
Pastor Bettina Pennon is living proof that the anointing makes the difference. She is a very sought after vocalist and has ministered across this country and abroad with the likes of the FAW Celebration Choir, Prof. James Hall and Worship & Praise, The New York Fellowship Choir, The Rev. Timothy Wright Concert Choir as well as being featured on the Bishop TD Jakes “Finally Loosed” albums to name a few. Pastor Bettina has performed at the Grammy Awards, VH1 Divas LIVE and Bobby Jones Gospel Show. She played the character of “Mama Winters” in the Off Broadway Show, “Mama I Want To Sing” The Next Generation. But she would say her greatest achievement, after becoming the Pastor of Galilee Church of God in Christ (Riverhead, NY) is to be a Great Mother to her son, Bryce.
Pastor David Wright – Soloist
Pastor David Wright is the son of the late gospel legend, Rev. Timothy Wright. He is the Pastor of Grace Tabernacle Christian Center Church in Brooklyn, New York. Pastor David leads the New York Fellowship Mass Choir and has earned multiple Stellar Award nominations and a Grammy nomination for his work in gospel music.
Highlights of the 40th Anniversary celebration include:
- A community gospel choir featuring singers from across Long Island
- Professional gospel music leadership and featured performers
- A tribute honoring the legacy of Rev. Maryanne McElroy
- Collaborations with local organizations and community partners
- A welcoming cultural experience designed to bring residents and visitors together in Downtown Riverhead
More than a concert, Harvest Gospel is a celebration of community, gratitude, inclusion, and the arts. As we look ahead to this milestone anniversary, we invite longtime supporters, new visitors, singers, families, and friends to be part of a meaningful East End tradition that continues to inspire year after year.
Become a Harvest Gospel Sponsor
Celebrate 40 years of music, connection, and community by sponsoring the Harvest Gospel 40th Anniversary celebration. Your support helps East End Arts Council continue this cherished tradition while recognizing your business or organization as a supporter of arts and culture on the East End.
Explore the sponsorship opportunities below and choose the level that’s right for you.
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Headlining Sponsor | $5,000
Inclusion in the post-event press release
Recognition across digital media, the website, and event signage
Dedicated social media posts
Back-page color ad in the Harvest Gospel program
4 concert tickets
Cultural Partner | $2,500
Inclusion in the post-event press release
Recognition in digital media and emails
Dedicated social media posts
Sponsorship credit in the November newsletter
Full-page color ad in the Harvest Gospel program (inside front cover, inside back cover, or centerfold)
4 concert tickets
Community Builder | $1,000
Inclusion in the post-event press release
Recognition in digital media and emails
Dedicated social media posts
Sponsorship credit in the November newsletter
Full-page black-and-white ad in the Harvest Gospel program
2 concert tickets
Song Supporter | $500
Full-page black-and-white ad in the Harvest Gospel program
Company name/logo recognition
2 concert tickets
Half-Page Ad Support | $250
Half-page black-and-white ad in the Harvest Gospel program
1 concert ticket
Quarter-Page Ad Support | $125
Quarter-page black-and-white ad in the Harvest Gospel program
1 concert ticket
There is also a pay-as-you-can option to write a note to Rev. McElroy through the sponsorship link below.
Open Call to Singers
Interested in joining the Harvest Gospel 40th Anniversary Community Choir?
Sponsors
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