PASADENA, Calif. — A new community choir is being created at Home Neighborhood Church in Pasadena and directed by the grandson of the late great Bing Crosby.

As singers audition in Pasadena, music director Phil Crosby Jr. said he hopes the opportunity will encourage people to come together and heal after a very divisive season.

"Choir is a great place for even intermediate singers and beginner singers because you have voices around you. To let yourself soar, you've got your brothers and sisters on your left and right helping you lift your wings up," Crosby said.

And Crosby's wings have been lifted by a special somebody: his grandfather. The legacy in his family has inspired him to keep the power of community through music alive, and Crosby said he is forever grateful.

"There's legendary singers like my grandfather," he said. "You know, it's just been a real education, fantastic, fascinating journey, and it's given me a lot of joy." 

Crosby shares that joy with Pastor Wilbert Smith, leader of Home Neighborhood Church in Pasadena who hopes the welcoming spirit of the church and choir will help bring restoration to the community.

"We really believe that all God's children can come together and worship him as one," Smith said. 

More auditions for the choir will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. on June 22 through 24, as well as June 26. The auditions will be held at Pasadena High School's small auditorium.

Phil Crosby Jr. and Wilbert are encouraging those interested in auditioning to call 626-900-9010 to solidify their slot. They believe faith and community are key elements to see positive change in the nation.

"You know, I do think we need some healing," Crosby said. "We do need unity. We've been very divided in this country. And that's one of the wonderful things about faith. When you keep that, you've still got everything."