The Voices of Peace Southern Gospel Music Ministry of Potter, Wisconsin began in 1997 with Tom and June Balliew and Bud and Carolyn McAtee. Together, the two couples launched the first outdoor Voices of Peace Gospel Fest held at Hilbert Civic Park in Hilbert, Wisconsin. This gospel fest continues to be held annually on the THIRD Friday and Saturday of August.
The 2-day celebration of song and music has expanded through the years and has inspired thousands for the past decade. It is known as the BEST Gospel Fest in Wisconsin!
Since Tom’s passing in 2011, Bud and Carolyn have carried the torch of this music ministry.
In 2012, the Voices of Peace saw a long-awaited dream become a reality; Bud and Carolyn took a mission trip to visit the indigenous people of Alaska where they presented the message of Jesus Christ to them through their music and testimony.
This opened many doors of opportunity to further expand the ministry in the Far North.
It is Bud & Carolyn’s hope that our mission outreach to the people of Alaska and our other areas of ministry will continue to grow.
Their music can be heard on numerous radio stations throughout the Midwest, Alaska, Canada and around the world via the internet.
Bud and Carolyn have also appeared on several TV stations throughout Wisconsin. Their music is soothing, comforting, and makes for easy listening. Their goal is to not only provide Christian entertainment, but to minister to those who are searching for a closer walk with God.
Bud McAtee
Bud is originally from Michigan. He is a dedicated bluegrass gospel flat picker, lead singer, and he also helps out with background vocals.
Bud’s Verse:
You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit, fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.
John 15:16
Carolyn McAtee
Carolyn, a Wisconsinite, sings lead vocal and also fills in with harmony. Together with Bud she has written 15 original songs and recorded nine CDs.
Carolyn’s Verse:
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, not of works, lest any man should boast.
Ephesians 2: 8-9
Ruth Franz
Ruth is a life-long resident of rural Manitowoc where she lives on the century-old Franz Family farm. She has played piano in church for over 6o years. Ruth’s prayers and childhood dreams were answered when she was asked to accompany Bud and Carolyn on the keyboard. She loves traveling with them and serving the Lord. Ruth also serves as the volunteer secretary for the Voices of Peace. Her musical talents are truly a gift from God!
Ruth’s Verse:
Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord, Trust also in Him And He shall bring it to pass.
Psalm 37:4-5
Mike Brown
Mike Brown sings bass and joins us from Chilton where he lives with his wife and kids. Mike is semi-retired and is currently pursuing various ministry opportunities. The Lord has truly blessed Mike and he is very excited to share God’s love through song.
Mike’s Verse:
Hallelujah! Yes, praise the Lord! Praise Him in His Temple and in the heavens He made with mighty power. Praise Him for His mighty works. Praise His unequaled greatness. Praise Him with the trumpet and with lute and harp. Praise Him with the drums and dancing. Praise Him with stringed instruments and horns. Praise Him with the cymbals, yes, loud clanging cymbals. Let everything alive give praises to the Lord! You praise Him! Hallelujah!
Psalm 150
Voices of Peace 