By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
Under the glittering skyline of Sandton, where glass towers catch the last blush of sunset, a different kind of light filled the room on the evening of 25 February.
It was not the shimmer of chandeliers or camera flashes that defined the Celestial Chorus and Great God Tour press launch — it was the unmistakable glow of worship.
Zimbabwe’s award-winning gospel powerhouse, Everton Mlalazi, stood at the heart of it all, officially unveiling the South African edition of the Celestial Chorus and Great God Tour at a press conference that felt more like a sacred gathering than a media event.
The venue pulsed with anticipation as some of South Africa’s most celebrated gospel voices — Lebo Sekgobela, Nontokozo Mkize, Dumi Mkokstad and others — gathered in unity, underscoring the magnitude of what is to come.

Minister Everton Mlalazi
For Mlalazi, the moment was deeply personal.
Taking to his official Facebook page shortly after the launch, the singer expressed his joy:
“The @celestial_chorus_soiree & Great God Tour Press Launch in Sandton was truly special. Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate faith, unity, and the power of worship with us.
“We are looking forward to an unforgettable night at Carnival City on 21 March at 6pm. A 100-piece symphonic band, powerful collaborations, and songs from In His Presence 3: Great God — it’s going to be monumental!”
Monumental may be an understatement.
Set for 21 March at 6PM at Carnival City, the free concert promises to be a historic live recording experience, headlined by a breathtaking 100-piece symphonic band.
The scale alone is enough to stir excitement — but it is the spirit behind the music that has fans counting down the days.
Powered by DJ Tira’s Afrotainment record label, the South African edition marks the second installment of the Celestial Chorus in the country.
This year’s lineup reads like a who’s who of gospel excellence: Everton Mlalazi will be joined by Dumi Mkokstad, Mthunzi Namba, Mmatema, Mpumi Mtsweni, Janet Manyowa, Canaan Nyathi, Rudo Madindi and many more.
Together, they will bring to life songs from Mlalazi’s acclaimed Great God album, alongside beloved gospel anthems that have shaped the region’s worship soundscape.
In a powerful act of generosity, the Bridging Gaps Foundation has ensured that this divine celebration will be completely free of charge, covering all costs so that worshippers from all walks of life can attend.
Tickets are available at no cost, offering thousands the opportunity to witness what is poised to be one of the year’s most defining gospel events.
But beyond the music, the harmonies, and the grandeur of a 100-piece orchestra, the Celestial Chorus represents something deeper — a bridge between nations, a unifying call to faith, and a reminder of worship’s ability to transcend borders.
As Johannesburg prepares for 21 March, one thing is certain: when the first note rises at Carnival City, it won’t just be a concert.
It will be a gathering in His presence — a night where voices, instruments, and hearts align in one resounding declaration: Great God.
