About Us
The Himmel's are a family-based Southern Gospel group rooted in the small town of Hannibal, Missouri, with a big heart for ministry. What started as a simple invitation to sing at a local fair in 2007 has grown into a thriving ministry committed to sharing the hope of Jesus Christ through powerful music and personal testimony. With over 15 years of service, Anticipation continues to travel across the Midwest, touching lives and spreading the Good News one song at a time.
The group was originally formed by Brian Himmel and his two sons, Chris and Brandon. Brian, who had previously traveled for six years with the group Two by Two, had stepped away from full-time touring in 2004 to focus on family. But when the opportunity came to sing again, he turned to his sons, and Anticipation was born. Their first concert sparked interest from local churches, and before long, the trio was receiving invitations to sing across the region. The harmony, sincerity, and message behind their music resonated with audiences wherever they went.
As the ministry grew, so did the group. Chris’s wife, Erica, joined shortly after they married, adding another beautiful voice and strong spiritual presence to the group. The four—Brian, Brandon, Chris, and Erica—formed a tight-knit and passionate quartet, sharing both the stage and a commitment to ministry. Their sound blended classic Southern Gospel with heartfelt modern energy, creating a worshipful experience for every audience.
In 2018, The Himmel family faced a major change when Brian was diagnosed with a rare form of dementia. Around the same time, Brandon stepped off the road to focus on his young family and serve as a music minister at his local church. While these transitions were challenging, they were also opportunities for God to guide the next chapter of the ministry.
Today, The Himmel family continues under the leadership of Chris and Erica Himmel, joined by their three children—Graham, Samuel, and Lily. Each of their children has stepped into the calling with their own voices, talents, and hearts for ministry. The family now travels as a multi-generational team, singing and testifying of God’s goodness and grace. With tight family harmonies, relatable stories, and a message centered on Christ, they bring authenticity and passion to every stage they step on.
The Himmel's perform approximately 30 to 40 concerts per year, appearing in churches, fairs, festivals, and community events throughout the Midwest. They’ve been privileged to share the stage with other well-known gospel groups and have built a faithful following over the years. But their goal has never been fame—it has always been faith. At every concert, somewhere around two-thirds of the way through the program, the group shares their heart for ministry and invites listeners to respond to the message of salvation and renewal in Christ.
Whether it's through their stirring rendition of Feelin' at Home or the testimonies they share from life’s joys and trials, The Himmel's are driven by a single purpose: to see souls saved and lives changed through Jesus Christ. Their ministry is a reminder that God uses families, even from small towns, to make a big impact for His Kingdom.