Renowned Christian Artist Blessing Offor Inspires MHS Community

On Saturday, October 4, Milton Hershey School students and staff traded their usual Chapel seats in Founders Hall for blankets and lawn chairs, gathering for a special outdoor experience featuring two-time Grammy nominee and multi-award-winning artist, Blessing Offor. As they made their way to the lawn in Alumni Memorial Grove, a wave of excitement swept through the community, signaling that this Chapel would be unlike any other.

“I think faith was the catalyst for our founders’ radical generosity,” MHS Director of Religious Programming Will Ogle said. “So having moments like these not only honors them but provides something our students can rely on as they navigate a world that is full of uncertainty.”

Having lost his sight at age 10 and endured the pain of losing loved ones, Offor’s story is one of resilience and hope. Despite the difficulties, his message remains clear—his unwavering faith in God is the foundation of his strength and the heartbeat of his music. To reinforce the 2025-26 school-year theme, Our Pledge, Offor inspired students and staff to keep themselves morally straight, even when it may be challenging to do so.

“I come from a third-world country, and things are hard where I’m from,” Offor, a native of Nigeria, said. “But what I have found is that difficulty is in its own way a superpower. If you can overcome adversity young, then between you and God, you don’t have to be afraid of anything.”

The evening was a celebration of faith and community. Many students were excited when Offor performed his hit songs “Brighter Days” and “Believe,” singing along with enthusiasm. Deeply moved, Offor shared how impressed he was by their energy and the genuine appreciation they showed for his music.

“There was a palpable sense of expectancy from the MHS students that I could feel from the stage,” Offor said. “I didn’t feel like I was working. I was just having fun.”

Houseparent Sophia Cox shared that Offor’s music helped her through a difficult season in her life and has provided deep encouragement throughout her time as a houseparent. She and her husband, Eric, regularly play his songs in their student van, where their Senior Division students listen along during daily rides. For all of them, seeing the artist behind the music they’ve come to know and love made the experience especially meaningful. Sophia and Eric expressed that their number one desire is to see each of their students thrive—not just academically, but in life—by helping them understand that their lives are filled with purpose.

“This opportunity to hear uplifting music that is going to encourage our faith and hearts in this beautiful setting is what is going to help us continue to uphold our Sacred Values,” Sophia said. “And have Positive Spirit moving into fall break.”

From students to houseparents to staff, the lyrics Offor shared didn’t just carry across the lawn at Alumni Memorial Grove—they resonated, likely to leave a lasting impression that will continue to inspire hearts and minds throughout the school year ahead.