The story of the life of Michael English is known to many and was detailed in his book, “The Prodigal Comes Home”. You may have read how he met and married the love of his life, Marcie. This month we asked Marcie for her memories of that pivotal point in their lives. Here is the English love story, as told by Marcie.

“In 1998, I had just re-dedicated my life to Christ after a long period of rebellion.  I had a friend who was really big into Christian Music.  She came to me one day and said that she had bought us tickets to a concert by Michael English.  I had heard of him before because my father was a pastor and even in my rebellion I was around the Christian and Church lifestyle.”

“On the way [to the concert] she filled me in on Michael’s long story of his own past rebellion and what it had cost him in his life. I was immediately drawn to him through his story. So I sat in the auditorium waiting to see Michael come out.  As soon as he did, I was in awe.”

“There was an initial physical attraction, but then as he started to talk and tell his story, it was more than that. I felt his pain, I felt like there was a reason I was there. There were feelings I can’t explain.  We went up to meet him after the concert and made our way home.  I had a conversation with my mother that night and I told her I had met the man I was going to marry.  She sort of laughed me off the phone. It is a conversation that we still reminisce and laugh about now, even after being married to Michael for 9 years.”

In English’s book, Michael tells how Marcie continued to feel that she would marry Michael, and prayed for him during the years they were apart. During that time, Michael hit bottom but Marcie continued to believe that the Lord had His hand on the man she was going to marry.

“Of course there was more that happened between that initial meeting in 1998 and our subsequent marriage in 2002.  God had a lot of work to do in me, and a lot of work to do in Michael during those four years apart, but when he placed us together again at the right time it only took us 8 weeks to marry each other. I knew the minute I laid my eyes on Michael that God had made him just for me. It wasn’t the stage, or the voice, but it was the man that was deep down behind those eyes that I knew was the man God had been preparing for me.”

“[It is now] nine years later and we have one beautiful daughter!  We are very happy.  Our marriage hasn’t been with out its ups and downs, some big, some small.”

“What we have learned heading into this 2011 Valentines Day is one of the most valuable lessons God can teach you in a marriage.  It’s not about mushy feelings, or romantic surprises; it’s not about writing poems and leaving cards.  Those are all great and important things that remind your spouse this day and every other how much you love them. But beyond that – beyond the romance and flowers of the Valentines Day – when that passes what you have at the core of your marriage is this reminder from God: “What God has joined together let no one put asunder.” That is what will get you through the other not-so-romantic 364 days of the year. So not only do I wish you a Happy Valentines day, but I wish you a happy God-filled marriage!”

The story of the life of Michael English is known to many and was detailed in his book, “The Prodigal Comes Home”. You may have read how he met and married the love of his life, Marcie. This month we asked Marcie for her memories of that pivotal point in their lives. Here is the English love story, as told by Marcie.

“In 1998, I had just re-dedicated my life to Christ after a long period of rebellion.  I had a friend who was really big into Christian Music.  She came to me one day and said that she had bought us tickets to a concert by Michael English.  I had heard of him before because my father was a pastor and even in my rebellion I was around the Christian and Church lifestyle.”

“On the way [to the concert] she filled me in on Michael’s long story of his own past rebellion and what it had cost him in his life. I was immediately drawn to him through his story. So I sat in the auditorium waiting to see Michael come out.  As soon as he did, I was in awe.”

“There was an initial physical attraction, but then as he started to talk and tell his story, it was more than that. I felt his pain, I felt like there was a reason I was there. There were feelings I can’t explain.  We went up to meet him after the concert and made our way home.  I had a conversation with my mother that night and I told her I had met the man I was going to marry.  She sort of laughed me off the phone. It is a conversation that we still reminisce and laugh about now, even after being married to Michael for 9 years.”

In English’s book, Michael tells how Marcie continued to feel that she would marry Michael, and prayed for him during the years they were apart. During that time, Michael hit bottom but Marcie continued to believe that the Lord had His hand on the man she was going to marry.

“Of course there was more that happened between that initial meeting in 1998 and our subsequent marriage in 2002.  God had a lot of work to do in me, and a lot of work to do in Michael during those four years apart, but when he placed us together again at the right time it only took us 8 weeks to marry each other. I knew the minute I laid my eyes on Michael that God had made him just for me. It wasn’t the stage, or the voice, but it was the man that was deep down behind those eyes that I knew was the man God had been preparing for me.”

“[It is now] nine years later and we have one beautiful daughter!  We are very happy.  Our marriage hasn’t been with out its ups and downs, some big, some small.”

“What we have learned heading into this 2011 Valentines Day is one of the most valuable lessons God can teach you in a marriage.  It’s not about mushy feelings, or romantic surprises; it’s not about writing poems and leaving cards.  Those are all great and important things that remind your spouse this day and every other how much you love them. But beyond that – beyond the romance and flowers of the Valentines Day – when that passes what you have at the core of your marriage is this reminder from God: “What God has joined together let no one put asunder.” That is what will get you through the other not-so-romantic 364 days of the year. So not only do I wish you a Happy Valentines day, but I wish you a happy God-filled marriage!”

First Published by SGN Scoops February 2011

Photos courtesy of Marcie and Michael English

Canada’s most recognizable male quartet, The Torchmen, is known for a traditional Southern sound, consistent ministry and enviable longevity. Few groups in Southern Gospel today can boast of 43 years of singing, and even fewer artists of being in the industry for 42 years and six months. Mike Moran, six months shy of being an Original Torchmen, is the patriarch of this Grammy-nominated and Gospel Music Association Canada Award-winning quartet. Neither Moran nor The Torchmen show any signs of slowing down, any time soon.

The Torchmen have recently embraced personnel changes that saw the return of two former members. Although it can be said that the only constant is change, this quartet boasts a unique history of group memberships that seem to revolve. Previous members tend to return, like metal to a magnet. When long-time lead singer/songwriter David Randall and bass singer Josh Friend announced their departure, Moran was pleased to welcome the return of two members, well known to Canadian Southern Gospel fans.

Jon Hisey

“Our new-old members are long-time Torchmen, Jon Hisey, who is back at his regular position at bass and the sound board; and Jeff Tritton, who is back this time singing lead. His two previous tenures with the group was at the tenor position,” says Moran. “It’s interesting to note that all three guys I’m singing with in this configuration are on their third time around. This time, I told them they better stay, until at least until I’m ready to stay home!”

Jeff Tritton

The current Torchmen members, with Sandy MacGregor at tenor and Moran at his customary baritone, have not officially sung in quite this arrangement before. “We are being told that this group has a smooth sound. I think Jeff probably gives us a more progressive sound, whatever that means,” laughs Moran. “Every group develops its own personality. Our creator, if that’s what we can call him, (no, not the Lord), Walt Andres, heard us a week or so ago. He told me it was the best all-round presentation he has ever heard the group do.”

Change can bring its own challenges, even when members of a team know each other well. However, it appears this current Torchmen transformation has been relatively painless for all involved. “With these guys coming back, it is a very comfortable feeling, because we all know each other strengths and weaknesses,” continues Moran. “Both of these men are both good quartet men and solid individuals. Jeff runs on coffee, which is now McDonalds instead of Tim Hortons. You can’t get past one without stopping. The next time you see him, ask him: ‘Is that what you’re wearing?’” Moran chuckles at the inside joke but doesn’t elaborate.

Mike Moran

“Jon, well, he has a very twisted sense of humor, which when you spend as much time together as we do, is good thing. Believe it or not, he says it’s my fault!” Moran’s own sense of humor is well-known and appreciated by Torchmen friends and fans. Group members refer to him lovingly as ‘the old man of the group’, and even after 42 years in Southern Gospel, Moran retains his dry quips and ability to laugh at challenges. This is not the first time he has had to handle a reformation of his team, but Moran has learned that God is still in control of The Torchmen.

“We have been through changes before, but as I get older it becomes harder and harder,” admits Moran. “This time I thought it might be the end; but I forgot again, that if it’s God’s will, there is a way. He had already prepared the way for Jon and Jeff to come back. Because of the fact they have been here before, once we knew they were coming back, the transition was a lot easier then it would have been if the replacements had been new men.”

Moran pauses and states, “Let me say here, that the two men who left us for legitimate reasons were very talented and gifted men. I am very thankful for them and wish them well in whatever direction God takes them in their ministry for him. They put in a lot of miles and hard work in the years they spent with us.” The members who have left also have had positive things to say about their Torchmen experience.

Former lead singer David Randall was with the group for seven years, and also provided original material for the group. In a previous interview with SGM Radio, Randall said, “Being a Torchmen means a lot of things to me. Being on the road for forty years means there is a legacy of great music to live up to. It also means that there is a responsibility to represent our Savior in a way that is honoring to Him. That has always been a part of the group’s thinking and decision-making. There is only one reason why this group has lasted the way it has, and that’s Mike Moran. He is the one constant, the glue that holds it all together. ”

Josh Friend, who sang bass with The Torchmen for three years, also commented to SGM Radio, in a previous interview, that he was glad to be a part of this team. “It is only in God’s perfect provision that He has seen fit to include me in the history of The Torchmen Quartet and Southern Gospel music in Canada.”

Returning bass Jon Hisey first began with The Torchmen in 1983 and knows that his return to the group was God-ordained. “Basically it was because I knew that God had given me the skills and talents for a reason and they could be most effectively used in a quartet ministry,” says Hisey. “So when the door opened I went through.” When asked about the best part of returning to team, Hisey laughs, “The best part? Mike’s jokes? No… Long nights preceded by less than nutritious meals? No… Most likely knowing God still has a need for bass singers.”

Sandy MacGregor

Tenor singer Sandy MacGregor, who fortunately shares a good sense of humor with his teammates, has also welcomed the return of the former members. “Jon is a good bass singer but more than that, he can find his part better than any bass singer I have ever sung with. You never have to tell him what part to sing; he just knows. He is always a group man ready to do whatever it takes to make the group better. Jon also brings other talents to the group; he is probably the best sound engineer in Canada in my opinion. He is also a web designer and is in the process of re-designing our entire web site. After all that, I would just say that Jon is an enjoyable personality to travel with and it is a lot of fun to have him back in the group and on stage.”

Jeff Tritton, current lead singer, has a wide range and a distinctive voice that lends an edge to the quartet sound. Audiences have welcomed his return, enjoying his solid delivery and engaging personality. MacGregor says, “I have only sung with Jeff a couple times before, but I will tell you that he has a great voice and with two voices that have such high ranges (Jeff and myself), the harmony is amazing. I am also enjoying his stage presence. You never know what he might do on stage as he has high energy and keeps us all on our toes. I think the audience will really enjoy the new formation and the spirit of these men as they sing.”

MacGregor is enjoying the new formation and doesn’t take his own Torchmen membership lightly. “There are a number of things that I would highlight about being a Torchmen; for instance, all the great Christian men that I have been able to travel with and to call my friends. There is a closeness you get from traveling with these men, almost like being brothers, because you go through so much together and share your lives good times and bad. Also, the amazing people I have met and the recognition I receive almost everywhere I go is very humbling. The way people say that our music has touched them in their lives helps you to keep going. I would say for me, [the highlight is], when you sing that one song that you know the spirit of God takes control of you and your voice and then watch it translate into the eyes and hearts of the people listening.”

The desire of each member of the group to allow God to use them is one unifying thread that can be heard throughout their presentation, truly making their singing a ‘ministry’. Moran says, “I know all of the guys, including me, have rededicated themselves to the work of the Lord through this conduit of The Torchmen.” Moran himself has not yet considered coming off the road, and is sure that if he did it would ‘drive [my wife] crazy’. He continues, “I know at 70 years old, my time in the group is limited, but as long as I have my health, and I believe this is where God wants me, I will be here. One thing I am very happy about is, with this current group, when that time comes the men will carry on God’s work with The Torchmen.”

Neither Moran nor the rest of The Torchmen see this as a time to sit back and rest on their laurels. The ‘new-old’ Torchmen are back on the bus, keeping up their busy schedule. They are also recording tracks with the current members. “We went into Grant Avenue Studio in Hamilton recently, recorded and rearranged twelve songs from projects we no longer carry. [They are] songs that we had never staged, or songs that we felt should go back into the program. Songs like: Wish You Were Here and Rick Ash’s In The Cross [one of this reporter’s favorite Torchmen songs]. Jon is going to mix and we should have them in a month or two.”

“God is continuing to open doors for the group with new avenues, like the opportunity we have of being a part of a gospel cruise next January, with the Dixie Echoes, Dixie Melody Boys, McKameys, Florida Boys and others,” Moran says. “Beside our regular Ontario bookings, The Torchmen will be in Alberta twice this year, once at Alberta Beach, where we have been going for one weekend in June every other year for ten years, and back for our annual trip to the Canadian Gospel Celebration in Red Deer in July. We will be heading up to Dryden for the long weekend in August, which is a new venue for us. We will again be a part of the National Quartet Convention, singing on Thursday. We also have bookings scheduled in Michigan and New York State.”

The Torchmen, with Mike Moran at the helm, have steered through changes in the past and they always seem to make the group stronger and more dedicated to their purpose. Each man has their focus on serving God and being a consistent witness for their Lord. Moran says, “I am very thankful that God has allowed me to serve him in something I love to do. I am at least the 4th generation on my Mom’s side of the family that has served the Lord in a music ministry. As a baby I was dedicated to the Lord and my family hoped that I would follow in my Dad’s family footsteps and go into the ministry, but God had other plans. He has taken me places that I never thought I would be and given me more blessings than I ever believed possible.”

Moran continues, “I am also very thankful that God has given me a loving wife of 50 years and family who have always supported me and the group. You ask me about the most value that I have had from being in the group, and the first thing that comes into my mind is this: because of the visibility of the group, your testimony is always on display. I need that!  The little Irishman that lives on my shoulder is never far away, but my witness is always on my mind.”

As the ministry of The Torchmen continues well into the fourth decade, the consistency of their witness and longevity of their ministry will continue be a legacy and a legend in the annals of Canadian Southern Gospel for years to come.

For more information on The Torchmen: http://www.torchqt.com/index.html

Find The Torchmen on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/227100173985963/

Vessels of Honour with Phil Foster

By Philip Foster as told to Lorraine Walker

What is Southern Gospel Music? Wikipedia describes it as: Southern Gospel music—at one time also known as “quartet music”—is music whose lyrics are written to express either personal or a communal faith regarding biblical teachings and Christian life, as well as (in terms of the varying music styles) to give a Christian alternative to mainstream secular music. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southern_Gospel , February 2012).

My Southern Gospel experience started in the mid 70’s.   A friend of mine wanted me to go with him to listen to a quartet. I remember at the time, thinking, “This will be boring.” I heard a group called the Nations Quartet. I was instantly hooked. I remember Danny Tomen hitting those high notes, and I wanted to be a tenor. Then I heard Ron Spearman, hitting those low notes, and I wanted to be a bass. I soon learned, I was neither a tenor nor a bass, but I knew I wanted to be part of this new and exciting discovery!

My friend, Tom Wilson, knew just about everything there was to know about Southern Gospel Music, and bombarded my brain with names like:  Jake Hess, James Blackwood, Doy Ott, (seriously, who names their kid Doy?), J.D. Sumner, Rusty Goodman, The Imperials, The Cathedrals (my favorite),and the list went on and on.

photo courtesy www.grandolegospelreunion.com

From that first concert in the mid 70’s, to today, Southern Gospel is the only music for me. In the early years, I tried learning how to sing parts. I have never ever considered myself a soloist and have always felt uncomfortable when I had to sing a solo part. However, I felt quite comfortable when I learned how to sing baritone and for the most part, I have sung baritone in the various groups I’ve been with.

The first real group I sang with was Victory Road. Tom Wilson was the leader and bass singer of the group. Like any group, we went through a few singers and eventually recorded an album at Northumberland Recording Studio in Warkworth, Ontario, Canada.

I enjoyed the experience of recording. It was another first for me; I liked it and wanted more of that experience. In the mid 80’s, I met another friend, Ed Poulain, who had a lot of experience in singing with groups such as The Mallory Quartet and The Switzer Brothers. Ed has a unique voice and is an excellent lead singer. We formed a group with tenor, Doug Bundock and did quite a bit of traveling as a trio. After several years, Doug left the group and we decided we wanted a quartet. In Canada, good tenors are out there but are hard to find. In the States, I think they grow them on trees!

A friend, by the name of Ian White, came into our lives. Ian had, and still has an amazing tenor voice. In my opinion, he is one of the best in Canada. We formed a quartet and called it Willing Vessel. In the early years of that group, we didn’t have a bass singer. Then we decided that with Ian singing as high as he could, I could probably put a low part to the mix. I say low part and not bass, as I’m not a bass singer. It seemed to work.  I brought Larry Ford up for a concert and the group opened up for him. After we had sung a few songs, Larry came up and said, “Phil, you remind me of Bill Gaither.” I thought, “Wow, I remind him of Bill Gaither!” Then he added, “…Because you stand at the end where the bass should be.”

Phil Foster

Our first baritone was Mark Edwards. Mark is an excellent baritone and a great songwriter.   He wrote several of the songs on our first album, Grace.   After Mark left the group, we decided to change the group’s name to Vessels of Honour, which is still the name of the group today.  Brandt White, Ian’s brother, came on board in the baritone position. Brandt had a nice smooth voice and we recorded our second Album Just One More Soul. After about a year or so, Brandt had a job offer, which took him out of town.  Ian’s friend, James Davy, who has one of the lowest bass voices anywhere, joined the group and I was able to go back to baritone. The group then recorded Ours For The Asking.

During this time, I decided I wanted to promote Southern Gospel and formed my own small company, Victory Promotions. With the guidance of my good friend Bill Griffin of Joyful Sounds Promotions in Calgary, I held my first concert at Northview Pentecostal Church in Peterborough. I brought the Dixie Melody Boys and the Torchmen in for my very first concert.

Dixie Melody Boys

The Torchmen

My wife and I worked hard forming mailing lists, making posters, tickets etc., and the big night came on September 13, 1996. I remember listening to the Dixie Melody Boys warm up, each member doing various vocal exercises and the piano plunking away. Then they started singing a song and the harmony, the professionalism, the polish, all flowed like a river. It seemed that all my hard work, all the frustrations, every conceivable emotion there was, all came pouring out of me. I could hardly talk and decided to head to the prayer room.

What a night it was. The Torchmen were excellent and the people responded as I hoped they would.   To date, that still is my favorite concert that I’ve promoted in Peterborough.

I sang with Vessels of Honour for several years and we traveled extensively in Ontario.   The group changed a couple of times and I was slowly feeling that perhaps it was time for me to move on due to health reasons. That decision was probably one of the hardest I’ve ever had to make about anything. The group today consists of Ed Poulain, Ian White, Laverne Boyle and Glenn Switzer, of the Switzer Brothers. They still have a great sound, but I tell everyone, “They sure don’t look as good as they used to!”

Vessels of Honour

I suppose you can say that Southern Gospel Music is my passion. I find that when I’m at my lowest, either spiritually, mentally, or emotionally, I can put on my music and before too long I’m lifted up. I have worked with some very talented folks from right here in Ontario, singers like: Marlene O’Neil, Rhonda Spurell, The Torchmen, The Proverbs, The Parker Trio, The Watchmen Quartet, and so on. Each of these artists, and others, has contributed to my growth, both as a singer and as a person.  I am blessed to know so many artists both here in Canada, and in the United States and am equally blessed to call them all friends.

People who don’t necessarily like Southern Gospel ask me all the time, “Why do you love it so much? What do you get out of it”?  Or, “It’s all just show!” To me, it’s an easy answer, but not that easy to explain to someone who just doesn’t get it. Yes, of course there is a level of entertainment, but there is also ministry. If a singer or a group does not lift up the name of Jesus, or give honor and glory to God, then it is not for me. I’ve heard artists, as I’m sure we all have, that sing just to be heard.   That is an artist I will never promote. 

When people pay good money to come to a concert, they want to be entertained.  When they come away being entertained and blessed because of a song, a line in a song, a lyric, or something the singer has said, it’s all worth it to me.

I’ve had people come to me with tears in their eyes because of something someone sang during a Vessels Of Honour Concert, or at one of the Concerts I have promoted over the years. They go home changed and lifted up; they leave better than when they came in. I can go to bed that night feeling that the Lord was glorified.

Ernie Couch and Revival

We had Ernie Couch and Revival at one of my concerts, and at the end of that concert, a woman gave her life to Jesus!

I vividly recall one elderly gentleman coming to me after a concert, tears welling up in his eyes, pumping my hand up and down, unable to properly communicate what he was trying to say. Finally he squeaked out, “Thank you!”  I got it.   I knew what he was feeling.   I understood 100%, and the two of us shared a moment together.  We both understood, without saying a word to one another.

That to me is why I do what I do.  It’s why I sang all those years with the group. It’s why I promoted concerts, so maybe one other person can leave the same way that gentleman did.

That is what Gospel Music means to me.   A life that was changed, a burden lifted, a heart softened, all because of this wonderful style of music that we call Southern Gospel.  What’s next for me?   Stay tuned!

Phil Foster

Editor’s Note: Phil Foster is based in Peterborough, Ontario, Canada. As a Southern Gospel enthusiast, he will be sharing his thoughts, memories, concert reports and features on Canadian Christian music. Please contact Phil at info@victorypromotions.com  or visit his website at http://www.victorypromotions.com/site/ . Phil is also on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1275735610&sk=info

Christian media has long been in the background of what is happening in the world. Like the old shoe in the closet, it has been pushed aside and only looked at when everything else is in use. From magazines to radio to movies, media with a Christian focus has been criticized for its lack of quality, professionalism and relativity. However, several facets of this industry are taking the secular audience by storm and destroying pre-conceived notions by creating a product that is making the world take notice. They are doing it without compromise, without diluting the message and without listening to those who say it can’t be done. They are doing it with courage and with excellence.

What is the heartbeat of Christian media? In this series we will look at those who sacrifice time, energy and funds to spread the love of Jesus and the message of the Gospel through print, web and visual media. From the movie industry that seeks to portray the timeless story through new parables to the media that promotes Christian music, we look at the motivation and methods of those that broadcast and publish a statement that can be offensive, enraging or liberating. The statement that ‘God so loved the world that He gave His Only Son’ is the only message that our subjects find worthwhile to share with the world. They spend their lives giving their talents to ensure that all might hear this message.

In Part One of this series, we focus on the Christian movie industry. In an area held fast by Hollywood and its morals and world-view, Christian media has made great strides into the mainstream film industry. The “Passion Of the Christ”, the Mel Gibson 2004 mega-hit, was a retelling of the last hours of Jesus’ life and death that had believers and non-believers flocking to the theatres. Number one on its opening weekend, the movie grossed $611,899,420 worldwide¹. According to a Barna poll, only half of the viewing audience of Passion considered themselves born-again Christians². This has lain to rest the criticism that only Christians will view Christian movies.

Other popular releases have also shown that Christian films do not have to dilute their message to gain viewers, such as Left Behind, the Narnia series and the recent Soul Surfer. Fireproof, released in 2008 by Samuel Goldwyn Films and Affirm Films, became the highest-grossing independent film of that year. Sherwood Pictures produced this last film, a production company that is a ministry of Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia. Sherwood Pictures brought a story of commitment and fidelity to 839 theatres nationwide⁴ with a budget of $500,000 and using mostly volunteers and donated locations. The Christian grass-roots project reached viewers across the country and across the world.

Sherwood Pictures has followed this popular film with a new release on September 30, 2011 entitled “Courageous”. Releasing to 2,000 screens nationwide, this police drama follows four men on and off the job, delving into their home lives and centering on fatherhood. Alex Kendrick, Director, Co-Writer and star of the film, talked to SGN Scoops prior to the release of this new film, about the courageous movie-making of Sherwood Pictures and its association with Sherwood Baptist Church.

“Sherwood is an “out-of-the-box” church,” said Kendrick. “Our Pastor, Michael Catt, believes in doing whatever is necessary to share God’s truth with the world. Since God had given me a passion to use motion pictures as a ministry tool, Michael gave me his blessing to make a low-budget digital film in 2003. That $20,000 effort was called “Flywheel”, and played locally in our one theater. What happened next amazed us.”

“Although we had prayed extensively over the project, we didn’t think it would go beyond our city, but once we began selling DVDs of the movie, it took off. Today, over 600,000 copies have sold, and the film is now in 56 countries. We still hear from people each week that have been touched and challenged by the story.”

“That led us to our next film, Facing The Giants, which was shot in HD for $100,000. Sony picked up the distribution rights, and put it in 441 theaters in 2006. It grossed $10 million and sold over 3 million DVDs worldwide. Like Flywheel, the response was overwhelming.”

“Fireproof was next, which expanded to 800 theaters and 3.5 million DVDs. Now, Courageous is set to come out September 30th. We can’t wait to see how God uses this movie to impact people! In a way, God has taken our limited efforts and has done more than we ever imagined.”

The Kendrick Brothers have increased their budget and their viewing audience with each release. Their evangelism may differ from that of a traveling preacher or musician, but they have the same goal of reaching the lost and encouraging the found.

Kendrick said, “Jesus would tell stories in the form of parables to the masses. He used this method to engage them and to teach them truth. In like manner, we are telling stories to engage the audience and to share a message of truth and hope. We’re just using movie screens to do it.”

“Since everyone loves a good story, it’s an ideal way for us to touch millions of lives all around the world. As far as how well we do it, that’s improving all the time. The technology is always changing, but the more education and experience we gain, then higher the level of excellence. For us, it starts with prayer, then research on the topic or theme. But when it comes to production, we’re using the latest forms available, and we love the way technology is allowing us to do more and more.”

The quality of the production and the depth of the storyline are increasing with every release of Sherwood Pictures. At a time when many would dilute their gospel message to make it more palatable to a larger audience, Kendrick sees their mission as the straightforward relating of Scriptural principals.

“Making movies is like going to war,” notes Kendrick. “An effective strategy doesn’t involve just one attack point. In other words, we may send the army on land, the navy by sea, or the air force to gain a victory. In Christian filmmaking, we need various stories that share truth from various angles. Ours are fairly bold and clearly evangelistic in their presentation. Others may make films that use a subtext message. But either way, the goal is the same.”

“We desire to point people to a relationship with God through Christ. We would only ask other filmmakers to seek God wholeheartedly before making their film. When God’s favor is on it, then you will have fruit.”

Sherwood Pictures have gained acceptance into a large market despite their bold message. Kendrick says, “We don’t ride the fence at all. Our first target is the church, and we’re open about that. The reason we do that is because we’re called to remind believers that we must be salt and light to the world. If they see no difference in our lives, marriages, and families, then our message is weakened.”

“Secondly, we realize our audience will often contain those that don’t know God in a personal way, so we purposely include the gospel. As a result, we’ve seen thousands of viewers come to Christ after watching one of the films. So we start with the church, but acknowledge that the audience will include others too.”

As an arm of the media that seeks to encourage believers and reach the lost, Sherwood Pictures is making great strides in film industry. With its fourth release, this courageous team of moviemakers is raising the bar for Christian films and for all of Christian media. Not satisfied with the status quo, the Kendrick Brothers keep pushing for excellence in their form of evangelism.

“God has placed a drive in my heart to share His truth through stories,” says Alex Kendrick. “I feel like I am obeying him when I do this. I sense His pleasure, and there’s no better thing in the world that to obey the calling of God.”

Alex Kendrick and Sherwood Pictures are proving that Christian filmmaking is rising above a level of mediocrity and making a mark in the mainstream movie industry. Christian media of all types should follow their example, pressing on toward excellence, following the calling, and aiming for the pleasure of their Almighty God.

For more information on Courageous visit http://www.courageousthemovie.com .

(Editor’s note:  February 2012 – Courageous is now available on dvd)

1       Source: http://boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=passionofthechrist.htm

2       Source: http://www.barna.org/barna-update/article/5-barna-update/191-new-survey-examines-the-impact-of-gibsons-qpassionq-movie

3       For more information:  http://www.sherwoodpictures.com/

4       Source: Wikipedia. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fireproof_(film)#cite_note-20;  ^ “Movie Fireproof”. The Numbers. http://www.the-numbers.com/movies/2008/FRPRF.php. Retrieved February 19, 2009.

Media and The Gospel: Being Courageous is Part 1 of a three-part series. This installment was first published in October 2011 in SGN Scoops digital magazine http://www.sgnscoops.com

“…therefore do not worry about tomorrow for tomorrow will take care of itself, sufficient therein is the trouble of the day.” Matthew 6:34

Recently a poll taken on a busy city street corner in a local city over a few hours garnered some interesting results on where people’s minds may be at any given moment.

People were chosen at random and asked the question: “The thing you were just thinking about before we stopped you, was it a past event, future event, or something happening today?”

Surprisingly, nearly 68% of the respondents said that the event was either past or future, while only 32% said they were thinking about something happening in the present time.

The results of that random poll in many respects is not surprising at all since many of us can spend a considerable amount of time thinking about past events that may have troubled us, or we could be just as prone to worrying about what is coming in the future.

A prominent athlete back in the 1990’s was once quoted as saying, “The past is gone and the future hasn’t yet arrived, so that’s why today is called the “present.”

Being able to live life moment by moment, day by day trusting in God’s grace for our present lives is at times a very difficult thing to do since the mind at times seems to have a life of its’ own and can constantly be leading us through all kinds of difficulties either once experienced, or anticipating it for the future.

Training the mind to be at rest in the moments we are living is a real test of self-discipline and conscious thinking, but it can be done as we practice some of the principles found in God’s word.

First, Psalm 46:10 tells us: “Be still and know that I am God.”

Being still, how difficult that is at times when our calendars and agendas are filled to overflowing and things seem to be pressing in on all sides!

Practising “stillness” is definitely not something that comes natural to us, but has to be cultivated. The  results of finding that quiet place with your Creator can bring about sweet communion with the One who made us, as well as giving us a state of calmness and a less stressed approach to life in general.

I have always found it interesting that in the Genesis account of creation that it says, “God breathed into man’s nostrils the breath of life and man became a living being.” (2:7).

We don’t often stop to think that every breath we take is of God and comes from him to give us life moment by moment for as many days He gives us to live!

The Apostle Paul in Acts 17:25 says it is God who gives all men “life and breath and everything else…”

We all owe each breath to God and at times when we feel we are not living well in the present time, one thing we can do is focus on the breath that He has shared with us for our life; not in a “new age” type of way, but in way that reminds us His Spirit lives in us moment by moment while we exist down here below and He wants us to enjoy His presence at all times.

Secondly, Paul also says in Phil 4:6-7:” Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving present your requests to God and the peace of God that passes all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

Prayer can do many wonderful things for a believer and one of the great benefits is to bring a sense of peace to our lives as we learn to share every burden with him, big or small, either from the past, or in the present or as we may worry about the future.

As far as God is concerned, anytime of day is a good time to share your prayers and petitions with Him and so ask away with a spirit of thanksgiving!

If a pollster asked you where your mind was (past, present or future), what would we say?

More importantly, if God asked us, “Are you trusting me for every moment?” (for the past, present or future) what would we say?

Determine today to begin living life with Him day by day, not enslaved to the past, or fretting about the future, but in sure knowledge that He is present with us every waking moment!

A short time ago I was dealing with health issues that kept me from working and financially, things were tight. I received a gift card for a grocery store from an anonymous friend. It was the perfect gift at the perfect time and I have a good idea who the giver was. Of course, I couldn’t thank them in person as I wasn’t supposed to know their identity. So if you are reading this, “Thank YOU!” That friend knew exactly what was needed because they had been in the same situation themselves. Good givers are people who have empathy toward their recipients and give what is best for that person.

This year, I want to determine to be a good giver. The best givers of course know that it doesn’t always mean material goods. In fact, the most appreciated gifts are often the intangible ones. I’m asking the Lord to show me who needs a word of appreciation, a note of encouragement, an email of truth-spoken-in-love, a text of compassion, or even a Facebook comment that says, “You are awesome!”

Other ways of giving are all around us. There are strangers who need a smile as you walk by, needy people who need that extra change in your pocket and not your condemnation, or the downtown mission that could use an extra hand serving a meal. Consider giving your pastor a mention during your daily prayer time, passing a word of advice to someone who asks for it, or just listening to a coworker who needs to talk to someone.

There are so many ways to give and in these ways we are also living a life that says to our Heavenly Father, “Thank You for Your gift to me!” I want to be more aware of those around me to know what I can give to them and more willing to listen to the needs of others so that my gifts are what they need, not just what I think they need.

Along with being a better giver, I want to be a better receiver this year. I confess I’m not very good at ‘getting’. I want to give more than I get and I feel indebted when receiving something I cannot repay. As a Christian that seems ridiculous, as we have accepted the gift of forgiveness and eternal life, something we don’t deserve and could never begin to repay. I know it’s a pride issue. And I know many of you reading this probably feel the same about receiving. You may not think of it as an ego thing, but trust me – it is.

Part of receiving is recognizing that there is an area where you are lacking. Sometimes that is very obvious, especially if the bills are coming in and the bank account is running low. At other times, we may not even know when there are areas in our lives that we could benefit from the help of others. I may not even aware of how much I need a pat on the back until someone tells me how much I am appreciated or that I did a good job. It is at that time that I’m reminded there are others who may need a similar word from me.

Whether it is my pride that keeps me from admitting a lack in my life or selfishness that keeps me from being aware of other’s needs, I’m praying that this year will be a time of growth for me in this area. If we all became better givers and receivers, it would certainly make the world a better place. And I think it would please the heart of the greatest Giver of all, our Lord Jesus Christ.

Photo courtesy: IMAGE SOURCE PAGE: http://joyerickson.wordpress.com/2011/08/22/asking-for-gifts/

As a young child, I remember going to the National Quartet Convention in Nashville, TN. When I was very young, 4 or 5 years old, I remember seeing glimpses of groups like the Rambos, Hinsons and JD Sumner and Stamps electrifying the stage at the old Municipal Auditorium.

Fast-forward a few years later and the 80’s were when my interest for music, particularly Southern Gospel music, sparked into a full blown obsession.

NQC was still in Nashville, and groups like the Nelons, Gold City Quartet, Kingsmen, and a newly formed quartet called the Gaither Vocal Band mesmerized, inspired, and set my brothers and myself on a journey. 

It was a journey to be a part of something wonderful beyond the walls of a little Methodist church in Missouri and music was our key. I won’t further bore you with my walk down memory lane, but I do feel that a little bit of history gives perspective.

It’s been a part of my history, my perspective of what great music is all about and the history, but more importantly future, of Southern Gospel is interwoven with this very important gathering as well.

Make no mistake; the NQC is still the premier, pinnacle event in Southern Gospel music. Every other event simply fades into the background in comparison. It would be accurate and honest to state that the temperature/health of Southern Gospel music rises and falls with the successes and failures of this event. 

And what is the temperature of Southern Gospel music? It’s a somewhat complicated answer to a very simple question. Sadly, I feel that the Southern Gospel genre is on the decline. Not because it isn’t one of the greatest forms of American born music filled with decades of history and talent, but rather due to neglect of one huge percentage of the population. The young.

One can argue that the NQC “powers that be” do attempt to attract a younger audience, but I believe it is somewhat disingenuous. Further, I feel that the NQC and Southern Gospel are guilty of the “day late and a dollar short” saying in regards to youth involvement of the industry and event. Does that mean Southern Gospel and the NQC is doomed? I believe that question is yet to be definitively answered.

Within my series of “blogs and ramblings” I will attempt to play the role of King of Southern Gospel. Instead of pontificating about the woes of the NQC or SG industry, I will attempt to give free, very practical advice on what I would do if I were in charge of the industry and convention. None of my solutions are short term fixes, band-aids will not help.

Long term solutions for long term results is the only way to insure this great music will remain alive for generations to come. By offering what I feel are real world, practical solutions could quite possibly change the course of a great genre of music. Could I be completely wrong, arrogant, and out of touch with reality? Possibly, but I really don’t think so….

Stay tuned for more from Tim Mills next month. Comments or suggestions? We’d love to hear them!

The National Quartet Convention is a week of Southern Gospel concerts held in the Kentucky Fair and Expo Center, Louisville, Kentucky. Billed as “Gospel Music’s Largest Annual Event”, the September festival draws thousands of fans, artists and industry personnel. More information can be found at http://www.natqc.com/

Tim Mills, member of The Southern Brothers, has been in and around Southern Gospel for most of his life. Over the next few months, Tim offers his unique perspective on the event, the industry, and Christian music in general.

“Southern Praise and Worship is Praise Music bent over to Southern Gospel by arrangement, to bridge standard ‘southern’ and contemporary praise and worship,” says Jimmy ‘JR’ Richards of Gold Harbor. “[This creates] a genre that both types of gospel music fans will worship with and enjoy.”

Southern artists have been performing Praise and Worship music for quite some time and find that it is effective in introducing audiences to a Southern flavor while still keeping them in their worship comfort zone. Canada’s Torchmen Quartet recorded a full CD entitled ‘Southern Gospel Praise and Worship’ in 2008, taking current praise songs and coloring them with the Torchmen’s southern-country style. Southern Gospel is not as generally well-received in Canada as it is in some areas of the United States, so artists of this genre have been singing songs from other styles such as Contemporary Christian and Alternative Worship for many years, in order to reach a broader audience.

Such is the case for some areas of the United States as well, even in the traditional ‘Bible-belt’ areas. Richards says, “In the south-east, I have been to so many churches who don’t care for Southern Gospel or Contemporary Praise and Worship. I know this differs in some churches and parts of the country. But you know what? God gave the old and the new songs. So it’s my calling and my passion to bridge the two together for all Christians to worship, sing and pray with. Southern Praise and Worship (SPW) is new only in name. I have heard so many groups taking a chance to record this type of song and praying that the powers that be will play it. The thing they haven’t realized is that they are a big part in helping start this new genre.”

Whether this is a completely new genre or just another of the many facets of Southern Gospel, it can be said that Southern Gospel songwriters have been praising God from the beginning, whether it is praise directed to Him or to others about Him. As Christians we are called to “proclaim the praises of Him who called [us] out of a darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9, New King James Version, Holy Bible). We were created to worship Him. J.R. Richards explains his definition of Praise and Worship.
“It’s that communication with God, whether it be through a song or in that private closet of prayer, where we find our soul crying out for blessing, strength or direction,” says Richards. “Praise and Worship in numbers, when we sing, seems to explode His spirit to unending heights in our bodies and our lives.” To Richards, then, Praise and Worship is a vertical conversation from man to God. Gold Harbor, however, does not limit itself to this type of music.

“You will find that Gold Harbor is a group of many styles from several genres of music,” says Richards. “Worship has been and will always be first and foremost with anyone who sings in this group.”

“Concerning the praise music we do, most of the songs southern gospel groups or audiences have never heard and not every song we do fits this new genre of music. Holy Rain and Children of God were written by David M Edwards or Regi Stone. Holy Rain for example was the 2006 Choral song of the year. I have gone through several hundred songs to pick out material that fits what we are doing.” Richards’ goal is “to produce something new and something spiritual that has excellence in quality.” Children of God is the current Gold Harbor single, sung by Christy Tullus and Noel Walters.

In March of 2011, Gold Harbor announced a new lead singer, Rob Helton. Richards is thrilled with the new addition and his new song. “If It Wasn’t For The Cross, is a great song being blasted by Solid Gospel,” Richards continues. “The guy who sings it has a rare, God-given voice. His name is Rob Helton. You’re going to hear a bunch from this guy. Better than that, you’ll get the chance to [hear him live] at The Branson Gospel Music Revival. Has he got a testimony for you! I have [also] listened and talked to several super talents about the alto to sing [with Gold Harbor] at Branson and help complete this project titled ‘Southern Praise and Worship’.

Richards has had many vocalists join Gold Harbor since 2008. Jim Peretic, Scotty Aldridge, Noel Walters and Darlene Chapman are alumni of the group. Richards continues listing the roster of singers.

“In 2010, Michelle Knight and David Folenius came to Gold Harbor for a live digital video recording at the Opryland Hotel, ten days before the great flood of Nashville,” says Richards. “Why are so many personnel changes happening? Well, it seems that God wanted me to know that with each change of music style, singers would probably change to keep in or stay out of their comfort zone… Gold Harbor is not your traditional group that you see the same people over and over from year to year.” Gold Harbor also does not travel as many miles and play as many venues as most Southern Gospel artists.

“At this point in my life, I just want us to do specific dates rather that being gone 200 days a year. I already did that!” says Richards, who has been singing since 1966. “I go to Christ Church in Nashville and when I’m at home I sing with the Christ Church Choir. There is a rich talent pool for me to pick from for Gold Harbor.”

A Christian gifted in leading public worship should also be a private worshipper of the Almighty God. Richards says, “My favorite way to worship is to find a private place and read His Word. I exchange my spirit to Him and for Him to recharge mine every day. I like to be in the bus sometimes alone or when everyone is asleep and just thank Him for letting me do what I do.”

“Without His blessing I would surely wilt in spirit and be lost forever. It is not so important what I have or have not done but [what is important is] what Jesus has blessed me to do through the years.”

Whether JR Richards and Gold Harbor are truly introducing a completely new genre of music may be up for debate, but what is certain is that Gold Harbor is continuing the tradition of Southern Gospel by proclaiming the Lord’s praises. In an era where churches become divided over music styles, Richards is using his talents and giftings to bridge the gap and invite all listeners to the Throne of the Almighty. In the presence of God, all any of us can do is Praise Him!

All pictures courtesy of JR Richards, Gold Harbor.

For more information: http://www.goldharbormusic.com

Elaine Peacock was a lady who seemed to have it all. A wife, mother, grandmother; Elaine had a loving family and a good job with the city. She had a love of music of all genres, from stage musicals to church ministry. Her resume included square dance caller, radio announcer and concert promoter. However, all of this was not enough, because Elaine had a dream. In 2003, she began to pursue that dream.

“In 2003, on a step of faith, I quit a full-time job to pursue a lifelong dream of singing and starting a music career,” Peacock shares in her official biography. “After much prayer and with the encouragement and support of my husband, Paul, family, and good friends, I stepped out and trusted God, not knowing what might be in store. I had faith that things would work out, and of course I could always go back to work if necessary!   It was important to me that at the end of my life not to regret having never tried.  It was an exciting decision, however, it was not an easy one, but one made with much prayer and trust in God for His will in life.”

Elaine Peacock discovered that it’s not easy to decide to chase a dream when you have an established career and many responsibilities. She tells SGM Radio, “Most e veryone in my life was very supportive of my decision. They knew I wanted to do this some day and they believed in me, so it was a great comfort to have them understand.  My husband, Paul, is truly the wind beneath my wings and I am very blessed to have him in my life!”

“I am sure there were some who thought I was a little crazy. Someone said, ‘what are you thinking? No one quits a good job!’ I answered with confidence and a smile, ‘Well, I did quit and I know it’s what I need to do right now in my life: Trust in God and pursue my dream!”

Peacock continues, “I did not doubt myself and felt at peace with my decision. In the past, I worried about what other people thought. I feared what they said and pleasing them was more important than what I wanted. This kept me from being myself and almost losing who I was and who God meant for me to be.  This time it did not matter for I knew in my heart that God was in this decision and I had the faith that it would be okay.”

Whether it is to lose weight, be more loving and kind, or just improve one’s life in general, making a shift of some type in our behaviours or habits needs to be undertaken in order to effect where it is we want to go with our goals.

Funny thing about change-we can both desire it and resist it; it all depends on what the area is we are targeting and what it is we want to accomplish.

I recently took a course entitled, “Effecting Change In the Workplace” and one of the key points of the speaker was that most people in the workplace are not necessarily afraid of change, but simply want to be a part of the process that helps bring it about.

Yet often times in life in general, change can be foisted upon us with little or no notice and all of a sudden we can feel quite disempowered by what is going on around us.

Sometimes in our walk with God this can be very true as well!

Things may seem to be going relatively smooth when all of sudden some unexpected event can creep up on us without us ever seeing it coming.

A relationship breakdown, an “out of the blue” financial hit or, a loss in life of some type that can leave us feeling very vulnerable to the winds of change and we are sometimes left wondering why God would ever allow this to happen to us.

One thing I’ve come to realize in this earthly journey is that God is not so much interested in making us comfortable in our circumstances as much as he is in seeing us mature.

That whole process of spiritual maturity can be a tough one to embrace at times, but the reality is that God often introduces change of some type to make it happen.

God and change are the two constants in life we can expect along with death and taxes I guess as the old saying goes!

Death we don’t need to worry about as Jesus already has conquered that by his resurrection from the dead and paying taxes of course mean we have some kind of income to spend which many people around the world don’t have the privilege of enjoying such a blessing in life.

As you begin the New Year and look at what changes need to be made in your life,  rest assured that the unchanging God will be with you as you go, whether it’s changes you make, or changes He decides is best for the maturity of our lives!