Approximately 1,000 people attended the Second Annual Changing Lives gospel concert on Thursday evening to benefit the Greene County Chapter of the American Red Cross.

Held at Greeneville First Baptist Church, the two-hour show starred The Kingdom Heirs, the resident Southern Gospel group of Dollywood in Pigeon Forge.

"We wanted this to be more than a concert," said Steve French, leader of the musical group. "I hope it's been a worship service. It has been for me."

In his welcoming remarks, Brian Cutshall, chairman of the American Red Cross chapter said, "All proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships will go directly to programs of our local Red Cross."

Cutshall added, "We provide relief and assistance at fires and natural disasters, provide aid and emergency communications between family members and their loved ones in the armed forces, and teach classes in health, safety and emergency preparedness."

The concert program listed 22 sponsors, including the title sponsor, Heritage Community Bank, and the platinum sponsor, Forward Air Corporation.

The Kingdom Heirs performed many of their hit singles, including "Forever Changed," which French called "my favorite of all the songs we have recorded."

Andy Stringfield, pianist and youngest member of the group at 24 years, said The Kingdom Heirs perform for more than two million people every year.

Between songs, French discussed The Kingdom Heirs' performance history at Dollywood since 1989.

He said the question most asked of the group was whether they ever performed with Dolly Parton, co-owner of the theme park.

"She just walks around" the park, French joked, but then said the country music superstar occasionally performed with the group at Dollywood.

Majestic Heights, a gospel group based in Kingsport, opened the Changing Lives show with a 20-minute set.

The quartet performed "The Lighthouse" and several selections they recorded for their CDs.

Majestic Heights featured Marty Ricker of Greeneville, Steve Lowe of Piney Flats, Adin Dancer of Blountville and Russell Bennett of Gray.

Ron Metcalf, operations manager of Radio Greeneville stations, and Cutshall were masters of ceremonies for the program, while Dr. David Green, pastor of First Baptist Church, delivered the opening and closing prayers.

Praising the Changing Lives event, Green said, "I think Christ was glorified, and God's people were encouraged. I think [the concert] made a difference."

Dr. Shelly Shaw, the event' chairman, added, "Everybody seemed to enjoy the program, which did a lot of good for our community and our local Red Cross chapter."

Anthony Morrison, executive director of the Greene County Chapter of the American Red Cross, agreed, calling the fundraiser "a huge success."

During the show, French announced that The Kingdom Heirs would return for the Third Annual Changing Lives gospel benefit on March 10, 2011, again at Greeneville First Baptist Church.