Walking by faith is what Vonda Lowe and her family are now doing. The country gospel group which is made up of Vonda, her husband Tim and her daughter Brittany are taking one step at a time, with each step guided by the Lord.

5/4 HIM, the name of the musical group will be performing at a block party next week. This performance will set the stage for what soon will be their full time ministry. At the end of the year, Tim, a Border Patrol Agent for the last 11 years and Vonda will both quit their jobs and travel around the country and wherever God leads them to spread the gospel through music.

The group began with five members, hence the name, but two of the members had to drop out. Vonda explained that these positions will eventually be filled and they will continue to use the name 5/4 HIM which has been incorporated and they are an official 501(3)c organization.

Even though full-time ministry will be new to this family, music is not. Vonda explained she has been singing since she was 6 years-old. Vonda sings back-up vocals and plays the keyboard in the band. Tim, who previously had been a “background kind of guy,” has stepped up since the other two members left and is now singing lead vocals and plays lead guitar. Brittany, who is 16 and will be a junior in high school, plays rhythm guitar and sings lead and harmony.

The band, who claims their style to be country gospel, with a little bluegrass and harmony, is originally from Las Cruces, New Mexico but has lived in Safford for the past four years.

The band won second place for Group of The Year at the 2006 Country Gospel Music Association Expo. Brittany was named 2007 Teenager Performer of The Year by CGMA and earned a Silver Heart Award.

The group will be performing at a block party hosted by Sunnyside Baptist Church, located at 1810 Louis Ave., on Thursday, June 26 from 4 to 8 p.m. Hamburgers and hot dogs will be served. There will be no charge for food or entertainment. All are welcome.