Detroit church holds vigil for ailing `Queen of Soul` Franklin
(Artdaily.org)

The Detroit church that music legend Aretha Franklin`s father once led held a prayer vigil Wednesday for the gravely ill `Queen of Soul.` Franklin received visits Tuesday from fellow icon Stevie Wonder and civil rights leader Jesse Jackson amid an outpouring of well wishes, a spokeswoman said. Dozens gathered at New Bethel Baptist Church for a 5:00 a.m. (0900 GMT) service dedicated to the 76-year-old who influenced generations as one of the reigning divas of American popular music for five decades. Few details have emerged about the singer`s condition or illness but she is said to be in hospice care, surrounded by family and friends. The vigil at New Bethel church for the creator of unforgettable hits such as `Respect,` `Natural Woman` and `I Say a Little Prayer` included ministers from multiple Detroit-area churches. The singer`s father