From May 2 to Nov. 6, Central Christian Church is hoping that its series of gospel concerts will "inspire" the general public.

The 2003 Praise Concerts at Central Christian Church will kick off at 7 p.m. May 2 with the Bryson City, N.C., group "The Inspirations".

This will be the eighth year for the church's concerts, which last year, drew as many as 800 people, Alan Tison, minister, said.

"The Inspirations" began in 1964 when a chemistry teacher rounded up four of his students and conducted nightly singing sessions in his basement. Since then, the group has went on to travel to almost every state, including Alaska and Hawaii, and have toured Europe, the Bahamas and the Holy Land. Many of their songs have been No. 1 songs and four Songs of the Year, according to the southern gospel music publication "The Singing News."

"They're top-notch in their talent and ministry," Tison said. "They're entertaining, but also have a Christ-centered message."

After the Inspirations' concert, the church will have concerts at 7 p.m. June 20 and 7 p.m. Nov. 6. The June concert will feature The Reggie Saddler Family and The Steeles, and the November concert will feature gospel artists Larry Ford, Sue Dodge and Ivan Parker.

The festival seating concerts are free, and a love offering will be taken. Doors will open at the concerts at 5 p.m.