Photo contributed by World Help World Help's 'Children of the World' International Children's Choir will make a visit to First Baptist Church of Gaffney on Sunday. United in song and in spirit, a choir combining the voices of orphaned and disadvantaged children from several nations will bring their traveling road show to Gaffney.

World Help's "Children of the World" International Children's Choir will perform at the First Baptist Church of Gaffney on Sept. 14 as part of its 2008-09 tour through the United States.Ministering in 60 countries, the choir hopes to bring compassion and inspire individuals to help the more than 15 million children impacted by AIDS worldwide. During the 10-month tour, the choir also raises funds to provide new or updated children's home facilities that provide care and shelter for thousands of needy children around the world.

Using a high energy program featuring songs in English and members' native dialects, the show has received rave reviews following performances at Disney World and a number of esteemed churches around the world.

"They have been to a number of prominent churches across the country and around the world," said First Baptist Church of Gaffney Pastor Joel Sellers. "Their music and message have a profound impact on those in the audience."

Sellers has been one of the millions drawn to the "Children of the World," twice having the opportunity to watch them perform live.

"These children literally steal your heart," Sellers said.

He tried for several months to bring the choir to Gaffney for local residents to experience the high energy show for themselves. However, problems with scheduling on each side made the effort difficult.

"It took several months for things to come together," Sellers said. "A lot of missed calls and busy calendars kept things from happening, but I'm glad things were finally able to come together."

When Sellers learned the group would be making a swing through the Upstate, the pastor "moved as quickly as possible" in hope his church would be considered as a potential stop on their tour. He would not be disappointed.

"I was so happy when we were given the chance to host ('Children of the World')," Sellers said. "These kids have never sung in this area, so this is a chance to expose them and others to the county."

Members of the choir will be performing at the church Sunday, but will remain in Gaffney for another day before moving forward on their American tour.

"We were fortunate several host families lent their homes for a few days," Sellers said. "This is definitely a blessing."

The show will begin at 6 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Gaffney. It is located at 200 N. Limestone Street.