GrapeVine - Breaking News

"The Priests" Move Up New Album Release

2009-10-12T14:29:00.004-04:00

(October 12, 2009 - New York) Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, The Priests, the singing priestly trio who broke the Guinness world record for the fastest selling classical debut album of all time, are releasing their second album a day earlier from the scheduled release date to Monday, November 23rd.

The album, entitled HARMONY, will feature tracks such as “The Lord’s Prayer” and “Amazing Grace” and will be released once again by RCA Victor in the US, and worldwide by Sony Music Entertainment. The album was recorded at the legendary Abbey Road Studios and the Priests are accompanied by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra on HARMONY.

Since signing the £ million global contract on the steps of Westminster Cathedral in April 2008, the Priests have enjoyed phenomenal worldwide success. The release of their first album The Priests last year resulted in a nomination for a Classical Brit Award, and selling over 1 million copies of their debut album in just 7 weeks. The Priests, their debut recording, was released simultaneously in more than 40 countries, fulfilling unprecedented global demand, and was embraced worldwide with stellar charting success. In the U.S., the album reached the #1 spot on Billboard’s Heatseakers chart, #1 on the Classical Traditional Chart, #1 on the Top New Artist Album chart, and held the top spot on the Amazon sales chart. Outside the U.S., the album debuted at #1 in Ireland (7x platinum), held the #1 spot in Norway for 4 weeks(platinum), #2 in Holland, #2 in New Zealand (2x platinum), #3 in Sweden (platinum), #4 in Finland (gold), #5 in the UK (platinum), #5 in Denmark, #7 in Spain (gold) and has achieved platinum status in Australia and Canada. The Priests have performed for such dignitaries as the Queen Of England, The President of Ireland, The Prince Of Wales and The Duchess Of Cornwall, and participated in New York City’s famed St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

The full time priests and part-time pop stars have performed live shows in Australia, the UK, America, Canada and Ireland, been featured in some of the world’s largest publications, ranging from Time Magazine, Wall Street Journal, to People Magazine, and have appeared on major television shows across the world such as “CBS Sunday Morning,” “NBC Nightly News,” “Live with Regis and Kelly,” and the “CBS Early Show” and have promoted their album in over 17 countries. Their attraction then is evident, but Harmony proves once again that their talent is their most enduring feature.

The Priests, brothers Fathers Martin and Eugene O’Hagan and Father David Delargy, were young school friends when they first sang together at the age of 12 (Martin and David) and 15 (Eugene). Their love of singing continued while studying for the priesthood in Rome. Once ordained, all three took up parish commitments. Singing was both part of prayer plus, in their spare time, they performed in local operas, musicals and choirs and have been singing as a trio for 30 years. In February 2008, a Sony record company scout knocked on their door and asked them to make a demo. The rest, as they say is history. The Priests never allow their music commitments to stand in the way of their day jobs and parish obligations. So adamant are they that their priestly duties must come first, their recording contract stipulates that they will never be asked to put record promotion ahead of their pastoral work. In addition, the Priests have stated that the majority of the profits from the sale of their album that they receive as recording artists will be given to charity.

Check out ThePriest.com for more information.

HARMONY: Complete Track listing:

How Great Thou Art
Ta Deum
Gaelic Blessing
Amazing Grace
Bist Du Bei Mir
Benedictus
Stabat Mater
Laudamus Te
Ave Verum
King of Kings
Lift Thine Eyes
Silent Night
The Lord’s Prayer
O Comfort My People
You’ll Never Walk Alone

Pope to Young People: Never Yield to Temptation of War

2009-10-09T18:40:00.001-04:00

VATICAN CITY, 9 OCT 2009 (VIS) - Yesterday evening in the Auditorium on Rome's Via della Conciliazione Benedict XVI attended a concert entitled "Young people against war (1939-2009)", played by the "InterRegionales Jugendsinfonie Orchester" conducted by Jochem Hochstenbach. The programme included compositions by Gustav Mahler and Felix Mendelsshon-Bartholdy and texts by Johan Wolfgang Goethe, Heinrich Heine, Paul Celan and Berthold Brecht, as well as two poems by children imprisoned in the Theresienstadt concentration camp, read by Michelle Breedt and Klaus Maria Brandauer.

The concert, called to commemorate the seventieth anniversary of the outbreak of World War II, was organised by the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, the Commission for Religious Relations with Judaism, the German embassy to the Holy See and the European "KulturForum" of Mainau.

At the end of the concert the Holy Father made some brief remarks, expressing his joy at having been able participate in this initiative which, he said, "using the universal language of music, ... seeks to encourage young people to build the future of the world together, drawing inspiration from the values of peace and the brotherhood of man".

"This evening the tragedy of World War II returns to our memory, a terrible page of history steeped in violence and inhumanity which caused the death of millions of people, leaving the winners divided and Europe to be rebuilt. The war, instigated by National Socialism, affected many innocent peoples in Europe and on other continents, while with the drama of the Shoah it particularly affected the Jewish people, who were victims of a planned extermination. Yet calls for reason and peace were not lacking from many sides. Here in Rome, the heartfelt cry of my venerated predecessor Pius XII rang out. In his radio message of 24 August 1939 - on the very eve of the outbreak of war - he decisively proclaimed: 'nothing is lost with peace. Everything may be lost with war'. ... May the recollection of those sad events be a warning, especially to the new generations, never to yield to the temptation of war".

Pope Benedict then went on to mention the twentieth anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, "an eloquent symbol of the end of the totalitarian Communist regimes of Eastern Europe", he said. "Europe and the entire world thirst for freedom and peace. Together we must build true civilisation, not founded on force but on the 'fruit of our victory over ourselves, over the powers of injustice, selfishness and hatred which can even go so far as to disfigure man'".

"The ecumenical movement", he concluded, "can help to build [this civilisation], working together with the Jews and with all believers. May God bless us and grant humankind the gift of peace".

Catholic Festival of Faith, Chicago

2009-09-29T16:23:00.002-04:00

Saturday, October 17, 2009
10:00 a.m. through the Closing Mass at 5:00 p.m.

An Extra Option for Early Risers:
Morning Keynote Presentation @ 8:30 a.m. with ValLimar Jansen

PLUS - Young Adult Dinner & Party:
After Mass @ 6:30 to 11:00 p.m., at an extra cost

Stephens Convention Center – Rosemont, Illinois
5555 North River Road (accessible from the I-294 and I-90 expressways)

Click here for information, directions, and registration forms.

Pope Benedict XVI More Popular Than Ever

2009-09-29T14:40:00.002-04:00

Prague, Sept 28 (CTK) - The interest of believers in two open-air masses during the three-day visit by Pope Benedict XVI to the Czech Republic was beyond the expectations and it was comparable with those served by his predecessor John Paul II in 1997, experts told CTK on Monday.

Click here to read the entire story on the website PragueMonitor.com.

Atlantic Marian Gathering 2009

2009-09-29T12:10:00.000-04:00

If you will be in the Nova Scotia area October 16th and 17th, make plans to attend the Atlantic Marian Gathering 2009, to be held at St. Agnes Parish Auditorium in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

One of the main speakers will be Fr. Don Calloway, M.I.C.

Fr. Calloway, is a member to the Congregation of Marians of the Immaculate Conception. At age twenty he was a high school dropout who had been kicked out of a foreign country, institutionalized twice, and thrown into jail three times.He was unexpectedly led into the Catholic faith and to the priesthood by God's grace and the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. After becoming Catholic he studied for the priesthood. He has since earned a BA in Philosophy & Theology from the Franciscan University in Steubenville, Ohio; M.Div. & S.T.B. Degrees from the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, DC; and and S.T.L. in Mariology from the International Marian Research Institute in Dayton Ohio. He is currently the House Superior of the Marian House of Studies in Stuebenville, OH.

Learn more about this event by clicking HERE.

The Priests at Abbey Road

2009-09-25T14:03:00.000-04:00

The Priests have followed in The Beatles' footsteps by recording their latest album at Abbey Road Studios.

John Lennon was quoted in 1966 as saying The Beatles were more popular than Jesus, but the trio of singing clerics’ first album of religious songs went down a storm, shifting more than two million copies in 40 countries and breaking the Guinness World Record for the fastest-selling debut classical album of all-time.

Their second album, Harmony, will include The Lord's Prayer and Amazing Grace when it is released on November 23 by Sony label Epic.

The Priests, brothers Fathers Martin and Eugene O'Hagan and Father David Delargy, who were young school friends when they first sang together, strode across the zebra crossing made famous by The Beatles album cover for Abbey Road.

The trio also denied any rivalry with the head of the Catholic Church Pope Benedict XVI, who features on an album being released on November 30, a week after The Priests’ new record.

Fr David said: “I know people might see it as a bit of a competition, I don't see it that way at all.

“We're all part of the same team with the same goals. We've got respect for the Holy Father and we admire him and admire what he's doing.”

Asked if he would be miffed if the Pontiff beat him to a Christmas number one, he replied: “Not in the least.”

Father Eugene said he was a fan of The Beatles’ work, particularly Yellow Submarine.

He said photos of the trio crossing the zebra crossing outside Abbey Road Studios “will be in a prominent place in all of our houses”.

Father Martin added: “The Beatles were all the rage when I was a wee fella ...”

The trio have also penned a song together called King Of Kings, but unlike the Sugababes and Chas & Dave there will be no splits in the group.

Fr Martin said: “We've got a meeting of minds — we all chipped in with our own ideas.”

Read more HERE.

Too Blessed to be Stressed returns to TV with a special guest

2009-09-11T07:24:00.000-04:00

"Too Blessed to be Stressed" returned to the airwaves on Sept. 3rd with a special guest, Corazon Puro. If you are struggling with sexual temptations and lust just to name a few and have a desire to be pure for the Lord, then you cannot afford to miss this program. One of the members of Corazon Puro shares her powerful testimony of conversion.

The program can be viewed online at www.netny.net/tooblessed. You can also catch all the re-runs as well as all the episodes from our 1st season.

John Michael Talbot to return to "radical gospel roots"

2009-09-11T07:20:00.000-04:00

John Michael Talbot recently released this statement regarding his music ministry which should allow for many more parishes to invite him for a concert:

"In the fall of 2009 we began an exciting new direction in JMT ministry! We are returning to my radical gospel roots. I am very enthused by the fruit we are seeing from this already. We are experiencing a fresh and powerful new wind of the Spirit in my ministry and community. I want to share that enthusiasm and joy with you!

Specifically this means that we are going to local regions and staying there for several weeks doing many events throughout the area. These events range from a single evening of Music, Teaching, and Contemplation, to three night missions, retreats, and teachings in a parish. The beauty of the three day ministry is that excitement builds from night to night, and more and more people come each night as the word spreads from person to person.

Our biblical model for this is St. Paul, who went to a local area a stayed there evangelizing and building up the local community before moving on to another region. The more primary model is from Jesus himself, who went from village to village in spiritual simplicity to preach the Good News to all God's people. Of course, the example of the saints like St. Francis of Assisi and the early Franciscan preachers is also a great inspiration for this ministry. They went in gospel simplicity from village to village and church to church, preaching the Gospel of Jesus using music, art, and proclaimed words.

This model allows me to bring the full spectrum of my music and teaching ministry gifts to a local area. Often in the past, audiences may have only seen the music and more meditational aspect of my ministry. But I have also written numerous books and fulfilled a daily teaching role as Spiritual Father of the Brothers and Sisters of Charity. As well as leading musical worship, this ranges from teaching to leading seated meditation. National audiences now get an opportunity to experience this aspect of my ministry. I am thrilled at this opportunity.

We are also using free-will offerings to financially support the ministry. This is in radical contrast to the ticketed events of the past. In past years of national prosperity ticketed events worked well for our ministry and sponsoring churches alike. But with the recent recession I want to offer these concerts and teachings to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. This way all can come to an event that presents the gospel of Jesus Christ as a free gift. It also allows those who are able to give a little more. Between these two we are walking by faith that God will take care of our legitimate ministry needs. So far we have not been disappointed, though we are certainly not getting rich!

So we need your help! We need you to support these events by coming when we are in your area. We also need you to get the word out when we are close by. Lastly, we are open to ministering in your church. Ask your pastor to sponsor a John Michael Talbot ministry in your local area. We are excited about what God is doing in our midst! We want to share it with you!"

Visit www.johnmichaeltalbot.com for more information on booking John Michael for your parish.

Tenth Annual Unity Awards postponed until 2010

2009-08-31T16:08:00.000-04:00

The United Catholic Music and Video Association (UCMVA) has announced that the 10th Annual Unity Awards will not be held this year.

In the early spring, Mr. Bernard Klein, who was the newly elected President of the United Catholic Music and Video Association (UCMVA) passed away after a brief illness.

In a formal statement, Susie Gorrell, secretary to the UCMVA said, “As many of you may have known, Mr. Klein had a great vision for the future of UCMVA and had worked very diligently in building upon the foundation in place to help continue moving the organization forward. The UCMVA board has decided that in order to allow time for the restructuring and implementing of these ideas, the 10th Annual Unity Awards will not be held this year, but will be celebrated in the fall of 2010.”

The purpose of the UCMVA is to support, encourage and promote the development of all forms of Catholic oriented Christian music and video. This includes: Liturgical, Praise and Worship, Contemporary and Instrumental Compositions. The Unity Awards celebrates Catholic music by honoring excellence in Catholic music and video. Previous award winners have included John Michael Talbot, Matt Maher, Steve Angrisano, Sharmane Adams, Kara Klein, Katrina Rae and Gretchen Harris.

Visit their website at www.ucmva.com.

A special gift for your favorite priest

2009-08-31T16:05:00.000-04:00

Catholic artist Annie Karto has developed a unique gift for your favorite priest to honor the "Year for Priests." A special card, illustrated by George Chase, and containing a CD with Annie’s signature song, “You are a Priest Forever” is now available for sale at www.anniekarto.com/kartopriest.html. “This is a gift the laity can give their priests this special year to encourage them,” says Karto. The CD also contains 2 new songs; the card and CD retail for $12.00.

CMN Industry News - Week of August 24, 2009

2009-08-31T16:02:00.000-04:00

Benedict XVI to Release Album Featuring Songs and Prayers to Mary

Pope Benedict XVI is scheduled to release an album on which he sings and recites prayers to the Virgin Mary, his label said Friday. The pope is accompanied by the Choir of the Philharmonic Academy of Rome, recorded in St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. The original compositions are performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, recorded at London’s Abbey Road studios. The pontiff's as-yet-untitled album also includes eight original pieces of contemporary classical music, Geffen/Universal said.

The album was not a Vatican initiative but was arranged with Multimedia San Paolo, an Italian Catholic media group. Proceeds will go to fund music education for underprivileged children around the world. Benedict is not the first pope to have his creative efforts captured on record. Last year tenor Placido Domingo recorded an album of poems by the late Pope John Paul II. The album is due for release on Nov. 30.

2009 Angelus Student Film Festival Announces 27 Finalists from 556 Entries

The 2009 Angelus Student Film Festival has announced that 27 finalists have been selected in three categories - live action, animation and documentary - from 556 entries, representing 185 film schools in nearly 30 countries, including Czech Republic, Finland, Croatia, Singapore, El Salvador, Russia and Tahiti. Since its inception in 1996, more than 5,000 films have been submitted to the annual competition.

A jury comprised of film industry professionals from the fields of live action, documentary and animation have judged the finalists' films within their specializations. The results will be the winning films of this festival that honors and showcases future filmmakers as they explore and create works that respect the dignity of the human person. Family Theater Productions created the Angelus Student Film Festival in 1996.

The Angelus Student Film Festival honored its 2009 finalists at a luncheon on Aug. 21 at Family Theater Productions' headquarters on Sunset Boulevard. The winning films will be announced and screened at the 14th Annual Angelus Student Film Festival, to be held at the Directors Guild of America on Saturday, Sept. 19, at 5:30 p.m. Nearly $50,000 in cash and prizes will be presented to the winning filmmakers, including the coveted $10,000 Excellence in Filmmaking award presented in honor of Family Theater Productions' founder, Servant of God Father Patrick Peyton, CSC. It is one of the highest cash awards for student filmmakers in the industry.

Global Catholic Radio Conference Scheduled to Take Place in Birmingham

Birmingham, Alabama will be the site of the annual Global Catholic Radio Conference on October 14-17th. “The event, co hosted with EWTN, is an opportunity for learning, discussing, and connecting with others involved in Catholic radio,” said Catholic Radio Association (CRA) administrative assistant Stephen Collins. “The regulatory climate is always changing and it is important that Catholics interested in becoming involved or those already operating stations stay up to date with all developments.”

Slated this year to speak at the event are Archbishop Michael Sheehan of Santa Fe and Bishop Robert Baker, Bishop of Birmingham. A retreat with Father Mitch Pacwa S.J. at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament is planned along with a tour of Radio Mountain at EWTN. This year’s event will include both a Vendor Expo and Tech Lab with tracks in Radio Operations, Promotion and Production, Fundraising and New Technologies.

“By uniting all involved in Catholic radio, the CRA provides a forum for those already working in Catholic radio to share with and mentor those that Our Lord has just recently called to the mission of Catholic radio. The CRA also provides a means of networking with, and marketing to, those involved in Catholic radio” said Collins.

For more information, contact the Catholic Radio Association at 843-853-2300 or go to http://www.catholicradioconference.com/registration.asp

Provided by the Catholic Marketing Network.

Ave Maria Radio to broadcast Catholic music special

2009-08-11T12:15:00.000-04:00

Ave Maria Radio will be broadcasting a music special on Catholic independent music called "My Catholic Radio" over Labor Day weekend.

You can listen online at: AveMariaRadio.net; the dates and times are as follows:

- Saturday. September 5, 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
- Sunday, September 6, 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
- Monday, September 7, 10:30 a.m. - Noon

Music website dedicated to the Year of the Priest

2009-07-20T16:35:00.000-04:00

Be sure and check out www.ourpriests.com where you can listen to music dedicated to all priests, plus a song dedicated to the memory of Pope John Paul II. The songs are presented in English and in Spanish.

A unique feature of this site is a place where you can post reflections on a priest in your life that you would like to honor.

This site and the music are the work of Joseph Lee Hooker. His official biography states that Hooker" is a prolific songwriter whose music has attained national and international acclaim. His most recent award came via the John Lennon Songwriter's Contest -- apropos, as Hooker remains adamant that Lennon, McCartney and the Beatles will always be his main musical influences. “Simplicity like that is perfection that will never be duplicated,” he states.

Hooker is a dedicated martial artist with blackbelts in Tang Soo Do and Hapkido. He currently collaborates with wife Bridget, a Magna cum laude Stanford University graduate and certified translator, on projects in various languages. These days, Hooker writes the lead verse, chorus and hook, and leaves remaining verses up to his wife. "I can't write a word without his melodies," she states. The pair co-produces in the studio, each one claiming the other "is better."

A singer/songwriter since 1963, Joseph, or "The Hook”, first performed live on the big stage on New Jersey's famous Steel Pier as part of Tony Grant's "Stars of Tomorrow". There he met the Supremes, Gene Krupa, and was taught how to move on stage by Rudy Pompelli (Bill Haley's Comets). In fact, it was the manager of Haley's Comets who first approached Joseph when he was a mere 13 years old and offered to buy the first song he ever wrote, "A Girl Like You." The young songwriter declined, and after a bit of a delay, plans to release the toon in 2010.

Joseph Hooker devoted his early years to recording and performing dozens of his own original songs, and writing hundreds more. "In school, I would watch the old Simplex clock on the wall during class, and write songs... I would aim for three minutes a song, as I'd heard once on the radio that that was the perfect song length..."

He was the only solo artist to perform at the 1st International Pop Festival in Puerto Rico in 1972, following John McLaughlin and the Mahu Vishnu Orchestra. McLaughlin was very complimentary about Joseph's spectacular performance, and afterward, many labeled Joseph as an "up and coming" artist. Unfortunately, just weeks after returning from Puerto Rico, Joseph was almost killed in a motorcycle accident which landed him in the hospital for months and took years of recovery. He continued to sing and write as a way to heal from his wounds, something which has become a personal theme on his journey through life.

"Music has been there for me when no one else was... God spoke to me, and still teaches me, through my own songs. I've learned to pay attention, because often, I don't even know where the words come from, and it takes me a while to understand the meaning."

Joseph later performed at the Monterrey Pop Festival in 1990, and sang harmony to "You Are So Beautiful" with Billy Preston. He performed at Vet Stadium in the early 1980's, and live on the nationally-televised Dance Party USA. He performed at World Youth Day 1994 in Denver, and traveled around the country for years singing at youth conferences and churches. His winning song "Photo of the Century," awarded by Kodak, was performed for current Governor of Pennsylvania, Ed Rendell. Music videos to two of his songs, "Don't Cry, Mary" and "The Miracle Song," have aired on cable TV and EWTN.

The death of his firstborn son, Luke John, to liver cancer in 1997 was a huge blow, he said, which "kind of knocked the song out of me". When he picked up his guitar years later, his songs had become even richer, deeper, more soulful -- to the point that he realized that he had more to say -- and more to learn -- through his lyrics than ever. He chose to focus on songwriting with either a spiritual or patriotic bent, and recently won recognition for “The Miracle Song”, written in honor of his departed son, in the annual and wildly-popular John Lennon Songwriting contest.

Hooker's songs since turning 50 are much richer and contain many more layers than his early music; in fact, there may be a whole different genre he is defining: NEW ADULT music, inspired by the best of rock's hayday, and sprinkled with the sentiment we all seek as time goes on. His songs are not “oldies”, nor strictly folk or pop -- and they are something far beyond hip-hop or unintelligible, angry rap. Music COMES ALIVE again through this artist, and takes each listener along for the incredible, soul-stirring ride. Isn't that always how it was meant to be?"

Visit www.ourpriests.com to find out more and to leave reflections about a priest who means the world to you.

Divine Mercy Conference set for August 1st

2009-06-29T16:15:00.000-04:00

The much awaited Divine Mercy Congress is set on August 1, 2009, Saturday, at the LA Convention Center, South Hall, 1201 South Figueroa St., Los Angeles, Ca 90015, from 7 am to 8 pm. This spiritual event is sponsored by Hombre Nuevo and Guadalupe Radio, under Fr. Juan Rivas, Legionaries of Christ, jointly with the Divine Mercy Evangelization Movement, a lay organization founded in 1999, under its Spiritual Directors, Msgr. James Lougnane, Pastor of St. Denis, Diamond Bar, and Fr. Joseph Visperas, Pastor,St. Paul of the Cross, La Mirada.

The Congress Theme is “Jesus, Our Healer and Strength”. Fr. Fernando Suarez, Companions of the Cross, is a world renowned healing priest who will talk on “Complete Trust in Jesus, the Healer”. He will also celebrate the healing mass and conduct a healing service.

Fr. Edward Broom, Oblates of the Virgin Mary, is an Associate Pastor of St. Peter Chanel, Hawaiian Gardens who is a dynamic speaker as a retreat master for several years, will speak on “Mary and Forgiveness”.

Fr. Kazimierz Chwalek, Marians of the Immaculate Conception, is the Vicar Provincial and Director of Evangelization and Development as well as a member of the Executive Committee of the World Apostolic Congress on Mercy and North American Congress on Mercy. He will team up with Marie Romagnano, RN and founder of the Divine Mercy for the Health Professional, on the topic, “The Divine Mercy Message and Devotion for the Sick, Injured, and Dying.

Donna Lee, accomplished Artist and Unity award recipient, will give her personal testimony and a mini-concert on “God is Rich in Mercy”.

Donation: Adults $25 each, after 7/19/09 and at the door, $30. Children over 5 years $10. Free admission for priests and are invited to con-celebrate the mass and help hear confession. Pre-registration is recommended. Tickets are required for admission. Make checks payable to Hombre Nuevo. Mail the registration form with check payment and self-address stamped envelop to: Divine Mercy Evangelization Movement, 321 N. Vallejo St. La Habra Ca 90631-4943.

All Divine Mercy groups and other Church organizations interested to participate in the procession may bring their banners and must coordinate with the Divine Mercy Evangelization Movement at tel. nos: (562) 694-2580 or (714) 469-3161 or (562) 972-5675.

For more information about this spirit-filled event, visit the local newspaper website, www.caljournal.com

At least 400 volunteers are being recruited for the event:

1. Ushers (doors, aisles, vigil room, confession room, VIP room, special pray-over room)
2. Greeters and Program Distribution
3. Registration (Will Call, On-Site)
4. Catchers
5. Security
6. Eucharistic Ministers (submit certification or letter from Pastor)
7. Collection (during mass)
8. Pray-over ministers
9. Vigil Room prayer warriors/adorers
10. Sacristans
11. Liturgy Coordinator
12. First Aid – nurses, doctors

Call (562) 694-2580 or (714) 469-3161 or (562) 972-5675 if you wish to volunteer.

Jamie Thietten's "My Chance" wins grand prize on Ourstage.com

2009-06-17T14:39:00.000-04:00

“My Chance” Featured in National Right to Life Monthly Newsletter

NASHVILLE, TN (June 2009 ) – Alturas Productions/Indie Extreme recording artist, Jaime Thietten woke up on Monday, June 1st to the news that “My Chance” had gained another #1 award. The song won the Grand Prize of $5000 and #1 position in the overall Music Finals in the fan-voted OurStage.com music competition for May 2009. “My Chance” took the top spot in the Christian/Spiritual Category which put her into the finals with all the winners in other genres from Rock to Rap, Country to Folk, Pop to Punk and every other category on the site. After 7 days of head to head competition and voting from many thousands of music fans, she went on to win the top spot and Grand Prize award. “I am so thankful for everyone who voted and I am truly humbled by the fact that “My Chance” is touching so many people” comments Thietten.
At the same time, the National Right to Life Newsletter went out to over 300,000 subscribers with a feature story on the “My Chance” music video. The response has been a consistent and powerful stream of orders for the video with comments encouraging Jaime in her mission to bring compassion and awareness for the difficult decisions women come to when considering abortion.

The single “My Chance” has been included on the Rock For Life Winter 2009 Compilation CD campaign, charted on the CRW Global AC and INSPO charts with over 100 stations across the USA and Canada playing the song since September 2008. “My Chance” added another accolade to its already growing list with the recent award for “Song of the Year” at the Momentum Awards held on March 28, 2009 in Nashville, TN.

A "pro-life" advocate, Jaime has dedicated part of her ministry to helping reduce the number of abortions. Her latest single, “My Chance”, tells the heart-wrenching story of a mother who decides to have an abortion, but later regrets her decision. An accompanying video includes interviews and information about life-saving options such as adoption.

"So many children lose their lives every day," Jaime says. "People have asked me why I would want to tackle such a controversial subject at this time in my musical career. My answer is that we can't afford to wait. Lives need to be saved now. I'm not worried about what others think."
During her 10-year singing career as a Christian AC and inspirational artist, Thietten has used her soaring soprano voice to garner radio airplay around the world, win major industry awards, and share stages with acts such as Phillips, Craig & Dean, Avalon, the Gaithers, Tree63, ZOEgirl, Michael English, the Easters, Clay Walker, Seventh-Day Slumber, and many others. Highlights of her career include the nationally televised Michael English Show, the Starkey Hearing Foundation Gala Awards honoring Goldie Hawn in Minneapolis, and the Caring Awards hosted by Val Halamandaris, president of the National Association for Home Care, and former Senator Bob Dole in Washington, D.C.

supplied by Indie Extreme

Ignatius Press to Distribute L’Angelus to Catholic Market; also creating special store diplays for "The Priests"

2009-06-11T09:56:00.000-04:00

Ignatius Press to distribute latest CD from L'Angelus

Ignatius Press has made an agreement with the popular new music group from Louisiana, L’ANGELUS, to distribute their music to the Catholic market. This talented trio of musicians, who have made their mark with Cajun style music, have just completed their first CD of spiritual songs titled L’ANGELUS: SACRED HYMNS.

Drawing from their rich Acadian and Irish Catholic ancestors, the greatly gifted trio of musicians and singers, all siblings from the Rees family – Paige, Katie and Steven – were recently featured on the very popular EWTN show, “Life on the Rock.” Their new album offers unique, deeply moving recordings of twelve of the most beloved hymns in Catholic music, including Ave Maria, Tantum Ergo, Be Thou My Vision, Salve Regina, Jesus My Lord, My God and Panis Angelicus. Be inspired by this outstanding young Catholic trio who were recently featured on the popular EWTN show "Life on the Rock." L’ANGELUS will be one of the featured performers at the CMN Trade Show in Somerset, NJ on the night of August 5, sponsored by Ignatius Press. To order this new album, SACRED HYMNS, call Ignatius Press at 1-800-360-1714.

You can read a review of this CD at http://tiberriver.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/home.viewReview/review/106

Ignatius Press Offers Special Store Displays for THE PRIESTS

Sony Music has made a special distribution agreement with Ignatius Press to offer some unique in-store display units, posters and packages for selling their best-selling new album and concert film of THE PRIESTS. The three musically gifted priests from Ireland, Fr. Eugene O’Hagen, his brother Fr. Martin, and Fr. David Delargy, recorded this stunning new album at the Vatican, and it immediately rose to the top of the best-selling charts around the world. It has sold over 1.3 million units since its release only a few months ago.

Accompanied by a full orchestra and choir at the Vatican, this moving album has many Catholic classics including Pie Jesu, Ave Maria, Be Still My Soul, Panis Angelicus, Abide With Me and many more gems. To order either of the in-store display units, and posters, with the CDs and/or DVDs of THE PRIESTS, call Ignatius Press at 1-800-360-1714.

This story is courtesy of the Catholic Marketing Network. Visit their website at www.catholicmarketing.com.

99 chants for 99 cents! On June 20th only.

2009-06-10T09:39:00.000-04:00

ON JUNE 20, 2009 JADE MUSIC/MILAN RECORDS BRING YOU 99 ESSENTIAL CHANTS IN AN EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP WITH AMAZON.COM MP3

The 99 Chant bundle will be available in full for 99 cents on June 20th, 2009

LOS ANGELES, CA – After the success of 99 Perfectly Relaxing Songs – a collection of high quality classical and sacred compositions that charted #28 on the Billboard Top 200 the first week of its release, Amazon.com and Jade Music/Milan Records are partnering again to release 99 Essential Chants.

On Saturday June 20, 2009, Amazon.com will offer the 99-song mp3 bundle for $0.99 and promote the collection as “Deal of the Day” in their mp3 store. The bundle download of all 99 chants is released on Tuesday June 16 for $5.99. After the promotional period on Saturday June 20, the price will increase again to $5.99.

99 Essential Chants (www.amazon.com/dp/B002C1ZYVA) is a one-of-a-kind collection of first-rate chants from around the world. It is a window into cultures that express their heritage and tradition through the universal and timeless language of chant. “This collection shows the astonishing diversity of chant music that we have released over the past 20 years,” explains Stefan Karrer, Head of Jade Music U.S. “It is a testimony of the vitality and popular resurgence of this genre.”

The release includes gospel, Tibetan, Eastern Orthodox, Mayan, Gypsy, Tahitian, African, Baroque and Gregorian chants. Chant aficionados will discover choir music from the USA, France, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Brazil, Argentina, Poland, Russia, the Balkans, Tibet, and Syria among others.

Featured on the album is the world-renowned choir of the Abbey of Santo Domingo de Silos in Spain, which sold millions of copies of their album Chant in the early 1990s. Additional artists include, the Byzantine Choir of Greece & Lycourgos Angelopoulos, the Lama Karta, the Armenian Choir of Sofia, Gospel Dream, the Coro Exaudi de Cuba, Swati Natekar, and many more.

“The success of 99 Perfectly Relaxing Songs was beyond our expectations,” explains Nick Bobetsky, Senior Vice President of Milan Records. “It clearly showed that there is significant demand for this type of music. We are thrilled to partner again with Amazon.com on 99 Essential Chants and introduce Jade Music to many new people.”

This deep-discount mp3 release is an effort by Jade Music/Milan Records to choose an ideal music retailer to reach a large consumer base that appreciates high quality chant music. This partnership also aims at helping consumers to get high quality music at a very attractive price during these challenging economic times.

Jade Music/Milan Records are distributed labels through ADA in the U.S., Universal in France, JVC/Victor in Japan and Warner Music in the rest of the world.

A #1 for Matthew Baute

2009-06-10T09:34:00.001-04:00

Congratulations to Matthew Baute for hitting the #1 spot this week with his song IT IS MERCY (from the CD-River of Grace, World Library Publications) on the Top 10 at 10 countdown with RockinRon broadcast on KBCU Radio in Bethel, KS, and syndicated on several other stations. RockinRon has often been referred to as the "Christian Wolfman Jack" as he goes against the norm in Christian radio today and plays "whatever he wants, by whomever he wants". His weekly Top 10 at 10 countdown is voted on each week by his supporting listeners. Just this week RockinRon was featured in CRW (Christian Radio Weekly) for being an "interactive DJ" as he now broadcasts his Saturday Night Christian Show via webcast worldwide.

RockinRon heard the song IT IS MERCY when Matthew performed it LIVE at the 2009 KCCM Awards held in Kansas City in April. He introduced it to his listening audience about 4 weeks later and it quickly raced up the chart. RockinRon also mentions Matthew's Prayer Video for IT IS MERCY that can be viewed on his website songsforprayer.com and other sites such as TANGLE, 4Marks, LoveToBeCatholic and more.

Aly Bleistine
General Manager
ALBIE Entertainment

Northeast Catholic Family Conference taking place June 28

2009-06-03T15:16:00.000-04:00

Waltham, Mass - The Northeast Catholic Family Conference will take place on Sunday June 28 from 1 to 8 p.m. at St. Mary's Church in Waltham.

The event will feature music and programs for all adults, teens (entering Grades 9-12) and children (entering grades 1-8). Highlights of the day include Mass with Cardinal Sean O Malley (celebrate his birthday with him), great speakers, teen program, children's program, collecting food for the hungry, great music, and a Candlelight Rosary and procession to conclude the event.

Everyone is welcome. To register or get more information for the Family Conference go to www.SchoolOfNazareth.org or email Fr. Mike Harrington at Mharrington@rcab.org or call 781-956-0548. God Bless you!

Fr. Michael Harrington
Coordinator

St. Gianna’s Maternity Home holding important Telethon June 5-6; looking for volunteers

2009-06-03T15:09:00.000-04:00

Hello friends and family,

I am sending you an email regarding a maternity home, St. Gianna’s Maternity Home in Bakersfield, CA, that is in much need of financial support. The owner, Amanda Baeza, just passed away. She was a close friend of mine with a deep love for Jesus Christ. This was her mission while she lived and we want to keep it going.

This weekend they are having a telethon and need local volunteers to help give tours of the home and take phone calls. Also, talent is needed for a Saturday night talent show, as well as a PA system.

If you are not able to do any of the following, donations can be made by calling (661) 872-2229.

Most of all, pray that people give generously. Everyone working for the home are volunteers and give out of the love they have for this cause.

Thank you so much for your support!

Leticia Pickett

The Latest News in Catholic Music and Media from the Catholic Marketing Network

2009-05-27T19:41:00.001-04:00

Week of May 25, 2009

The Priests Debut Album Breaks Sales Records

The Priests, an ensemble of three Roman Catholic Priests who signed a million dollar plus recording contract with music giant Sony Music Entertainment/BMG, have seen their first album become a record breaker. Their debut album, which was released in 2008, has already sold over 1.3 million copies, officially becoming the fastest selling debut by a classical act. Selling over a million copies worldwide in just 7 weeks, the recording has achieved platinum status in the UK, Norway, Sweden, Australia, New Zealand and is 7 times platinum in their hometown country of Ireland.

The # 1 chart position follows their first ever trip to Sydney in April which saw them perform their biggest concert to date, performing to over 3000 fans at the Sydney Entertainment Centre. The Priests performed beautiful renditions of Catholic classics such as “Ave Maria,” “Pie Jesu” and “Panis Angelicus” as well as popular Irish songs, which they performed with a spectacular 30 piece orchestra and 20 person choir.

The Priests are Father Eugene O’Hagan, Father Martin O’Hagan and Father David Delargy; three practicing Roman Catholic Priests from Northern Ireland who grew up singing together while studying for the priesthood, and all joined by their shared faith and passion for music. The Priests signed a unique recording contract which ensured that their day jobs at their respective parishes would never be interfered with, no matter what the scale of their musical success. Their priestly duties are spelled out in a contract which includes a clause freeing them from any promotional or recording commitments with parish duties always taking precedence. In addition they are donating all of the profits from their music to charity.

Catholic Leaders Attend Pre-Screening of New Jim Caveizel Film

From the filmmaker who produced The Passion of the Christ comes a powerful film, a modern-day parable, based on an incredible true story of sacrifice, oppression and mob rule. A village’s persecution of an innocent woman becomes both a daring act of witness and a compelling introspection. Who will join forces with the plot against her, who will surrender to the mob, and who will dare to stand up for what’s right? As Christians, how do we confront evil? Do we recognize its subtle manipulations?

The Maximus Group is facilitating invitations for Catholic leaders to the pre-release screenings of a new film which comes out on June 30th. Based on a true story, The Stoning of Soraya M stars Jim Caviezel (The Passion of The Christ) and Academy Award nominee Shohreh Aghdashloo (House of Sand and Fog, The Nativity Story and The Exorcism of Emily Rose). The producers include Steve McEveety (The Passion and Braveheart), and John Shepherd (The American Carol and The Ultimate Gift). The musical score was composed by John Debney, the same composer for The Passion of The Christ.

The Stoning of Soraya M is set in 1986 Iran and centers on journalist, Sahebjam (Caviezel), whose car breaks down in a remote village. Here he enters into a conversation with Zahra (Aghdashloo), who relays to him the story of her niece, Soraya Marnò and the tragic ending of her arranged marriage to an abusive tyrant. It is both a classic fable of good and evil and an inspiring tribute to those who are fighting against injustice around the world. The Stoning of Soraya M was a rousing runner-up to the Academy Award winning Slumdog Millionaire as the audience favorite at the Toronto Film Festival.

Visit www.CatholicScreenings.com to find a screening in your local area.

New Website Reviews Catholic Products

The Catholic Company, located in Charlotte, North Carolina has launched the first-ever Catholic product consumer reviews website. The website found at http://reviews.catholiccompany.com contains over 2,300 consumer reviews covering more than 1,500 products. The reviews span a wide range of products including Catholic books, Bibles, and gifts. "Since product reviews online have become a valuable resource for consumers, we felt it was important to make this resource available to Catholics looking for a safe and friendly place to read Catholic product reviews," says Nicholas Cole, the Marketing Director of The Catholic Company.

Most of the reviews are provided by verified buyers that rate and review each product. Reviews can also be placed on the website without making a purchase. To review any product, visit www.catholiccompany.com and click on the "Write a Review" link found on every product page.

The Catholic Company, a mail-order catalog and online retailer, provides essential Catholic books and gifts to customers worldwide. The Catholic Company is known for its selection of high quality Catholic products, quick delivery, and customer service. Selling online since 2001, The Catholic Company, has a comprehensive collection of Catholic books and gifts and a world-class distribution center.

L'Angelus to Appear on Life on the Rock

L'Angelus, the talented Catholic family band from Louisiana, will appear on the program "Life on the Rock" which airs on the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN). It will be the group’s first performance on national television. The Rees family delivers the spirit of their Cajun and Irish roots with heart, wit, flair and confidence through some of the sweetest harmonies and energetic music found. Their energy is electrifying and their music will take you to a place where hope, innocence, power. passion and faith convene.

The show airs live this Thursday, May 28th at 8 pm Eastern. Those who do not get EWTN can watch the online stream. L’Angelus will also perform live at the upcoming CMN Trade Show in August. Catholic Radio Update

Immaculate Heart Radio Expands to Utah

Immaculate Heart Radio recently announced that it has signed a contract to purchase 50,000 watt KCPW AM 1010 from Community Wireless of Park City, Inc. The station towers are located near Salt Lake City and the signal reaches most of the population of Utah. “We are very excited to serve the Church in this way by bringing the best Catholic programming from around the country and around the world to Utah,” said Immaculate Heart Radio President Doug Sherman. “The transaction will close in August, and our broadcasts will begin at that time. Immaculate Heart Radio was founded in 1997 with its first station, KIHM in Reno, Nevada, and has since grown to include 21 broadcast facilities across California and New Mexico.

Pennsylvania Catholic Group Buys Three Stations in Pittsburgh Area

A Pennsylvania Catholic radio group, St Joseph Mission, is buying three Pittsburgh radio stations: two AM and one full-power Class B FM, for $8.9 million. St Joseph Mission, headed by Matthew Joseph Gorsich, is purchasing WAMO 860 AM in Millvale, WAMO-FM 106.7 FM in Beaver Falls, and WPGR 1510 AM in Monroeville. Mr. Gorsich has stated in an interview that the programming will definitely be Catholic, but he has not decided if all three stations would simulcast each other.

Detroit Catholic Stations Close

Michigan Catholic Radio is selling its two stations, WCAR 1090 AM Detroit and the silent WOAP 1080 AM Owosso-Lansing, and closing down its operations. WCAR was one of the pioneer Catholic stations in the nation, founded in 1998, just when Mother Angelica was promoting the idea of local Catholic radio stations for her new EWTN radio service.

Editors Note: Catholic Radio Update courtesy of Michael Dorner

Matthew Baute, Sharmane Adams and Christopher Ames win 2009 KCCM Awards

2009-04-21T14:00:00.000-04:00

Nashville, TN, April 20, 2009-ALBIE Entertainment is pleased to announce that three of their artists were recognized as award recipients at the recent 2009 KCCM Awards held in the Kansas City area on Saturday, April 18th. World Library Publications artist, Matthew Baute was recognized as a first-time recipient for INSPIRATIONAL Artist of the Year. Sharmane received the award for POP Artist of the Year, and Christopher Ames received the award for ACOUSTIC Artist of the Year and also SONGWRITER of the Year. In addition to the award presentations, attendees were blessed with live musical performances from a variety of artists. Both Matthew Baute (River of Grace) and Christopher Ames (Everyday With You) performed songs from their current CD releases, along with local artists such as Karla Bauer-Tate, Kenny Gamble, and Shawn Derritt. Other special guest performers included Paul Clark, and Alisa Childers (formerly of ZoeGirl).

The KCCM Awards are an ecumenical sponsored annually by KingCat Music based in the Kansas City area. This organization serves to recognize artists who are part of the KingCat Music network in a variety of award categories including Artist of the Year (in each music genre), Group of the Year and Song of the Year. KingCat Music includes local, regional and national independent artists that perform in the Christian music genre. The awards are held each spring at a Kansas City area venue. Sponsors for the event include notable businesses, professionals in the Christian music industry, along with several radio stations, and news periodicals. For more information on the KCCM Awards visit www.kingcatmusic.com.

For more information on ALBIE Entertainment visit: www.myspace.com/albieentertainment

Free downloads offered each Wednesday by Jade Music

2009-04-17T11:01:00.000-04:00

LOS ANGELES, Calif. – April 15, 2009 – Jade Music (www.milanrecords.com) has partnered with MyCatholicVoice (www.MyCatholicVoice.com) to offer a featured free music download each Wednesday through June 10.

From a deep catalog of sacred and classical music, these free downloads will include works by Giulio Caccini, Hildegard von Bingen, as well as chant recordings by the Benedictine Choir of Santo Domingo de Silos, and the Norbertine Fathers of St. Michael’s Abbey, among others.

The direct link to the item is www.mycatholicvoice.com/aogentes. The first free download is ‘Alleluia Omnes Gentes’ by the Benedictine Monks of Santo Domingo de Silos.

“We’ve carefully selected music related to the Catholic calendar, and we’re excited to share these rich recordings as digital downloads through MyCatholicVoice, said Stefan Karrer, head of Jade Music U.S. “Available beginning today as the first free download will be ‘Alleluia Omnes Gentes’ by the Benedictine Monks of Santo Domingo de Silos, in their inimitable style of freedom and expressive power of love and faith.”

Jade Music has created a name for itself recording and distributing high-quality sacred and classical music. For more than 20 years, it has been working with renowned choirs and musicians from around the world.

“We are always looking for new and inventive ways to promote our music,” explains Nick Bobetsky, senior vice president of Jade Music. “MyCatholicVoice is a perfect partner for us in extending the availability of our complete music catalog online, and introducing our music to many new listeners.”

About MyCatholicVoice

MyCatholicVoice (www.MyCatholicVoice.com) is an online, multimedia Catholic resource designed to provide personal inspiration and support community ministry. Created to serve the Catholic community and those interested in the Catholic tradition, MyCatholicVoice uniquely combines social networking capabilities with easy online access to a broad range of current and historical Catholic multimedia material, including both published and user-generated content.

About Jade Music

Jade Music is distributed through Ryko/WEA in the U.S., Universal in France, JVC/Victor in Japan and Warner Music in the rest of the world.

Latest Industry News from CMN (April 10)

2009-04-10T11:45:00.001-04:00

Priest’s Album Tops One Million Copies-Second Album Released

“The Priests” are a vocal trio of Northern Irish Catholic priests, comprised of two brothers, Father Martin and Father Eugene O’Hagan, along with school friend Father David Delargy. “The Priests” signed a global recording deal in 2008 with Sony Music and released their self-titled debut album in November, which became a major global sensation, selling over 1 million copies in just 7 weeks. The album broke the Guinness World Book of Records, officially being the fastest selling debut by a classical act in the UK, and has achieved platinum status in the UK, Norway, Sweden, and New Zealand. Additionally, the album is 5 times platinum in their native Ireland.

On April 7th, RCA Victor announced the release The Priests – In Concert At Armagh Cathedral, available for sale for the first time on DVD. Filmed by acclaimed director Chris Cowey, this special concert was recorded in front of a packed audience of hundreds of attentive fans and a PBS television crew. “The Priests” performed soaring renditions of classics such as “Ave Maria,” “Pie Jesu” and “Panis Angelicus,” as well as traditional Irish songs in an hour long concert at the stunning Armagh Cathedral in Northern Ireland. Their outstanding harmonies won ecstatic applause from the audience, and this concert was one of the most successful PBS pledge drive programs this past holiday season.

Father Martin said, “If we can truly reach out to the world through the music, then we feel we will have brought some pleasure to people and lifted their hearts. What has happened to us since we signed to Sony Music is just beyond the wildest dreams of any of us. We all feel we are on an extraordinary journey.” “The Priests” signed a unique recording contract less than a year ago, which ensured that their day jobs will never be interrupted, no matter the scale of their musical success. Their priestly duties are enshrined in a contract which includes a clause freeing them from any promotional or recording commitments – parish duties always take precedence. “Weddings, funerals, baptisms – all of these things must go on and will always come first for us,” says Father Eugene.

2nd Annual Catholic New Media Celebration Announced

Following the encouragement of Pope Benedict, as well as Pope John Paul II before him, the second annual Catholic New Media Celebration will be held in San Antonio, Texas on Saturday, June 27, 2009 announced Fr. Roderick Vonhögen, CEO of the Star Quest Production Network, the group that is coordinating the event. To be held in the magnificent Sky Room of the University of the Incarnate Word, the Catholic New Media Celebration (CNMC) is an international conference which focuses on evangelization of the Roman Catholic faith using new media.

“It will take place during the final weekend of the year dedicated to the apostle Saint Paul,” says Fr. Vonhögen. “Just like Saint Paul who traveled the world to tell the nations about Jesus, Catholic new media evangelists reach out to a worldwide audience with the message of the Gospel. At this year’s CNMC, we will explore how we can follow in his footsteps.” He went on to say, “It is a day to learn, share, and explore how New Media can help the Catholic Church in the New Evangelization called for by Pope John Paul II.”

Keynote speakers for this year's gathering will include Fr. Dave Dwyer, the Director of Busted Halo, and host of “The Busted Halo Show with Father Dave Dwyer” on Sirius/XM Satellite Radio. Also speaking will be well known Apologist and EWTN host Patrick Madrid, publisher of Envoy Magazine and Director of the Envoy Institute of Belmont Abbey College. The conference will close with a special concert featuring Ms. Sarah Bauer, a Catholic singer-songwriter from Indiana with a special calling through her “Dare to Dream” ministry, to challenge young people to dream big and to recognize the great plans that God has for their lives.

“New media includes podcasts and online video, games and software, websites and blogs, mobile technology and all things interactive,” said Father Vonhogen. “The Catholic New Media Celebration is a gathering of today's new media producers within the Catholic Church, as well as of those who simply enjoy and have a desire to learn more about new media content and a want to grow as a community in an effort to more effectively create and share powerful and unique content for the benefit of the universal Catholic Church.”

Anyone interested in new media is invited to attend. Registration and additional information i available online at http://celebration.sqpn.com or by calling 206-202-4455.

Matthew Baute and Sharmane are finalists for KCCM Awards

2009-04-06T15:51:00.000-04:00

The KCCM Awards will recognize excellence in Christian Music on April 18th during a day-long conference at Mid America Nazarene University in Olathe, KS. Catholic artists Matthew Baute and Sharmane have made it to the finals in their respective categories: Matthew for Best Inspirational Artist, and Sharmane for Best Female Vocalist.

The KCCM Awards is part of a day-long conference entitled "The Concert of Friends Event," meant to encourage Christian artists in their ministries. The day contains workshops on the practical aspects of being a professional Christian artist - songwriting, vocal training, marketing and selling your music, building a band, performance, etc. Alyson Bleistine of ALBIE Entertainment is presenting a workshop on Marketing and Selling Music, (how to find your market and offer your music for sale effectively).

Details of all the workshops can be found on the KCCM website.

Matthew and Sharmane will perform during the Awards program. GrapeVine wishes them luck in their categories.

Industry News from the Catholic Marketing Network

2009-03-31T11:08:00.000-04:00

CMN Industry News

Week of March 23, 2009

Album Honoring Our Lady Wins Grammy

An international anthology of Marian hymns performed by the Phoenix Chorale was recently awarded a Grammy, the music industry’s highest honor, in the “Best Small Ensemble Performance” category. The 51st Annual Grammy Awards were held in Los Angeles on February 8, 2009. The album, entitled Spotless Rose: Hymns to the Virgin Mary, is a unique recording featuring 20th and 21st century musical settings of ancient texts about the Virgin Mary. The album, released last September, was inspired from a special Mother’s Day concert performed by the Phoenix Chorale to honor the greatest mother of all, the Blessed Virgin Mary.

“I was delighted to learn we would be honoring Our Lady with a recording,” said Matthew Scott, Roman Catholic Cantor and baritone with the Phoenix Chorale. “Composers have always written only their very best for the Blessed Virgin, and we singers are always inspired to use our voices in the most beautiful way possible to appropriately praise the Virgin Mary. My excitement about this project escalated when we found the ease with which the compositions complemented each other, as well as the exquisite harmonies on each hymn. I suspect this is due to Mary's very nature: the music she inspires is always filled with tremendous joy, humility, grace, and healing. She has certainly inspired something very sacred in this work.”

Spotless Rose: Hymns to the Virgin Mary features noted living composers including Americans Stephen Paulus, Jean Belmont Ford and English composer Cecilia McDowall. The album also features two Marian pieces by Javier Busto, a Spanish composer highly regarded for his sacred choral compositions. Additional compositions from Healey Willan (Canada), Benjamin Britten and Herbert Howells (England) are featured. The Phoenix Chorale, Arizona’s professional a cappella choir is led by Artistic Director Charles Buffy. For more information, visit www.phoenixchorale.org

Catholic Writers Guild and CMN to Hold Joint Event

The Catholic Writers Guild has announced that it will hold its first annual Catholic Writers Conference Live in-conjunction with the Catholic Marketing Network Trade Show this August 5-7 in Somerset, New Jersey. Guild President Karina Fabian commented, “We’re very excited about both the growth of the writers' guild and the opportunity to work with the Catholic Marketing Network on this event. There are a lot of synergies between the two groups and we think we have the making of a real win-win situation for everyone concerned.” CMN President Alan Napleton added, “We couldn’t be happier in welcoming the Catholic Writers' Guild to our gathering. The group represents dozens of Catholic writers who have a tremendous amount of energy and desire to advance Catholic writing and publishing and who also have a palpable love for the Church.”

Called the Catholic Writers Conference Live, the event will provide a unique opportunity for Catholic writers of non-fiction and fiction to learn ways they can improve their craft and market their work. Panel discussions and presentations covering various topics important to both published and non-published writers will be offered along with opportunities to interface with major Catholic publishers.

Early registration is going on now at www.catholicwritersconference.com and more information is available at the website or by contacting Guild Vice President Ann Lewis at annlewis@joesystems.com Additional information concerning the CMN Trade show is available at www.catholicmarketing.com or by calling 800-506-6333.

Academy Award-Winning Director to Make Movie on Japanese Martyrs

Martin Scorsese, one of the cinema’s most acclaimed directors, is filming his next film Silence, an adaptation of the novel by Japanese writer Shusaku Endo. Currently filming in New Zealand and scheduled for released in 2010, the project includes actors Daniel Day-Lewis, Gael Garcia Bernal and Benicio Del Toro. The writer, Jay Cocks, also wrote Gangs of New York and Age of Innocence.

The movie is set in 16th and early 17th century Japan, where Portuguese missionaries must contend with traders from rival European nations and the persecution of Christians by Japanese feudal lords. The feudal lords want to drive Christianity out of Japan, and try to do so by torturing priests into apostasy, denying their faith. This is done symbolically by stepping on a “fumie”, a Christian image, like a picture of Mary or a crucifix. Two Portuguese priests, Sebastian Rodrigues and Francis Garrpe, make a dangerous journey to Japan, both to locate and comfort Japanese converts, and to discover the truth about a supposed apostate priest, Ferreira.

Last November some 188 Japanese martyrs from the same era as the plot of Silence were canonized. Today, Japan is less than 1% Christian, of which only about 450,000 are Catholics.

Maryknoll Priest to Lead Catholic Media Group

Father Dennis Cleary, a Maryknoll priest who has served as a missionary in Venezuela and China, has been named the new director of The Christophers, the well-known Catholic media group based in NYC. Father Cleary will lead the media ministry and commented that he has always been inspired by the Christophers’ motto, “It’s better to light one candle than to curse the darkness." The Christophers use various media to promote the message that everyone can make a difference in the world and was founded in 1945 by a Maryknoll priest, Father James Keller. The Christophers present annual awards for work in television, film and books.

Cleary, a Buffalo native, was ordained a Maryknoll priest in 1977. He served in Venezuela from 1976 to 1993, living among the poor. He developed an interest in the media, producing a news show "Channel Zero" for three barrios and started a production studio in Caracas that did documentaries.

Mary Ellen Robinson, Vice President of The Christophers, who is responsible for overseeing its day-to-day operations said, “I’m looking forward to working with Father Cleary. I’ve known him for many years, and I’m happy to say he’s been on hand for many of our events and activities. He knows the message of hope and encouragement that we spread all over the world, and I believe that our friends and supporters will welcome his caring presence.”

New Christian Book Show Draws Disappointing Crowds

The inaugural Christian Book Expo took place in Dallas, Texas on March 20-22 and drew few attendees. Event organizers had hoped to attract 10,000 to 20,000 people but ended up with registrations of only 1,500 for the three day event. “We acknowledge the attendance numbers were disappointing,” said Mark Kuyper, President of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA), which sponsored the event. “But several of our board members have said they believe this consumer-driven model for marketing represents the future of Christian publishing. We will be evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of this year’s event with the goal of greatly increasing next year’s attendance.”

The Expo, a first-of-its-kind event designed to connect publishers and authors directly with readers in the evangelical Christian market, angered many traditional Christian bookstore owners who saw the gathering as yet another attempt to circumvent traditional Christian retail outlets. The Expo featured 150 author-led workshops and seminars, as well as mini-events and evening programming.

Conceived before the current economic downturn and more than two years in planning, the event combined three days of panels and programming to provide both a conference experience and a product. Kuyper said the goal of the event was to drive awareness of Christian authors —238 were featured— and their messages. “The show might, or might not, go on. If we end up doing this again, it would be a smaller show,” Kuyper said. “We’ll be smarter next year,” said Michael S. Hyatt, President and CEO of Thomas Nelson and Chair of the ECPA’s Executive Committee.

Final Component of OCP’s Never Too Young Series Now Available

Never Too Young: Leader’s Resource, the final element in the Never Too Young suite of publications is now available. The full collection offers music and prayer resources that have been selected and prepared uniquely for youths in grades four through eight. Compiled with a “teacher’s eye,” the Leader’s Resource is helpful for those leading faith formation programs, classes and prayer experiences. Inspired by their own classroom and liturgical experiences, experts Mark Friedman and Janet Vogt provide practical applications to acquaint teachers, catechists and students with the Never Too Young repertoire.

“The new Leader’s Resource helps incorporate the music of Never Too Young into the school year with easily adapted or pull-out-and-use prayer services,” said Tom Tomaszek, Director of OCP’s Artist Relations and Product Development. Tomaszek added, “These are songs young people like to sing, in a book that invites them to join their voices together in God’s praise.” Providing ready-to-use lesson plans, the new Leader’s Resource is organized to reflect the sequence of the school and liturgical year. Professionals and volunteers will find useful strategies to help guide youth through their faith journey. Get more information online by visiting www.spiritandsong.com or call 800-548-8749.

Catholic Music Executive Dies

Susan Stein of Heart Beat Records wishes to announce with great sorrow the passing of Mr. Bernard Klein who passed away on March 15th from a massive heart attack. Father of Catholic singer Kara Klein, Bernie was also Chairman of the Board of Heart Beat Records and President of the United Catholic Music and Video Association (UCMVA). He will be sadly missed by the many Catholic artists throughout the world that he has helped in many ways. CMN joins with Susan Stein in expressing our condolences to his wife Judy, their children and their family and friends. May he enjoy eternal rest and joy in the arms of his Heavenly Father.

"The Priests" set to release DVD in time for Easter

2009-03-26T12:52:00.000-04:00

The Priests in Concert at Armagh Cathedral Available on DVD April 7th on RCA Victor
“They sing like angels” -- Time Magazine

(New York – March 5, 2009) The Priests are a vocal trio of Northern Irish Catholic priests, comprised of two brothers Father Martin and Father Eugene O’Hagan, along with school friend Father David Delargy. The Priests signed a global recording deal in 2008 with Sony Music and released their self-titled debut album in November, which became a major global sensation, selling over 1 million copies in just 7 weeks. On April 7th, RCA Victor will be releasing The Priests – In Concert At Armagh Cathedral, available for sale for the first time on DVD.

In front of a packed audience of hundreds of attentive fans and a PBS television crew, The Priests performed soaring renditions of classics such as “Ave Maria,” “Pie Jesu” and “Panis Angelicus,” as well as traditional Irish songs in an hour long concert at the stunning Armagh Cathedral in Northern Ireland. Their outstanding harmonies won ecstatic applause from the audience, and this concert was one of the most successful PBS pledge drive programs this past holiday season.

The Priests’ self-titled debut album was released in November 2008 in more than 40 countries across the globe, and sold over 1 million copies in just 7 weeks. The album broke the Guinness World Book of Records, officially being the fastest selling debut by a classical act in the UK, and has achieved platinum status in the UK, Norway, Sweden, New Zealand. Additionally, the album is 5 times platinum in their native Ireland.

Their debut album was recorded at home in Ireland and also at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, where they were accompanied by two Vatican choirs. The album was produced by music legend Mike Hedges, who worked on hit albums by U2 and Manic Street Preachers.

Following the Armagh concert, Father Eugene O’Hagan commented, “Tonight was one of the most moving of my life. It was just fantastic to receive such a reception from a wonderfully appreciative audience.”

Father Martin said, “If we can truly reach out to the world through the music, then we feel we will have brought some pleasure to people and lifted their hearts.”

Father David, who counts Tina Turner and Sting among his musical favorites added, “What has happened to us since we signed to Sony Music is just beyond the wildest dreams of any of us. We all feel we are on an extraordinary journey.”

The Priests signed a unique recording contract less than a year ago, which ensured that their day jobs will never be interrupted, no matter what the scale of their musical success. Their priestly duties are enshrined in a contract which includes a clause freeing them from any promotional or recording commitments – parish duties always take precedence.

“Weddings, funerals, baptisms – all of these things must go on and will always come first for us,” says Father Eugene.

Filmed by acclaimed director Chris Cowey, this special concert - The Priests in Concert at Armagh Cathedral is set for release on DVD on April 7th, just in time for Easter.

Track listing:

The Priests: In Concert At Armagh Cathedral

01 Domine Fili Unigenite
02 Panis Angelicus
03 Ave Maria
04 Dúlamán (Moya Brennan with The Priests)
05 Perfect Time (Moya Brennan)
06 Ching-A-Ring Chaw
07 Be Still My Soul
08 Pie Jesu
09 Jesu Joy Of Man’s Desiring
10 Ag Crióst An Siól
11 Water Under The Keel (Liam O’Flynn)
12 Funiculi Funicula
13 O Holy Night
14 She Moved Through The Fair (Sir James and Lady Galway with The Priests)
15 Londonderry Air (Danny Boy) (Sir James Galway)
16 Phil The Fluter’s Ball (Sir James Galway with The Priests)
17 Benedictus
18 Abide With Me
19 Irish Blessing

Directed by Chris Cowey
Executive Producers: David Cumming and Jannine Waddell

The Priests in Concert at Armagh Cathedral (RCA Victor) – DVD release date -- April 7th, 2009

2009 Best of New Catholic Music Contest is now open

2009-03-09T12:13:00.000-04:00

Rocking Romans is pleased to announce their Best of New Catholic Music contest. The online entry form for this year's contest is available at http://www.rockingromans.com/contests/boncm200 9. If you have recorded new music since January 1, 2008, or know one of the many talented Catholic artists/bands who have done so, please check out this link and use/share it accordingly. As was the case last year, there will be room for many finalists on the new compilation CD.

Photos submitted should be a square, ideally 112 x 112 pixels. Music files should be 192 kbs mp3 files.

While at the site, be sure and view the videos in contention for the future TV pilot to be marketed to Catholic TV stations. They are found at http://www.rockingromans.com/contests/video2008/entries.

"Too Blessed to be Stressed" TV series premiered on March 5th, 8pm

2009-03-07T15:41:00.000-05:00

Net TV, the official channel for the Dioceses of Brooklyn and Queens, have picked up a local radio show, "Too Blessed to be Stressed" and turned into a TV Show.

You can watch the program online on Net TV's website or you can also watch on Time Warner Cable channel 97 in all of NY except the Bronx, and Cablevision channel 30 in Brooklyn.

The first episode aired on March 5th - you can watch it here: http://netny.net/tooblessed/
It was entitled "God Turned my Mess into a Message" The guest spoke about her life, trails and tribulations. This young lady was forced to pack drugs for her parents at the age of six.

For more information, visit the website at www.2blessed.com.

Be sure and catch other great programming on Net TV by visiting their website, http://netny.net - see their weekly schedule at http://netny.net/schedule/.

See the video preview on the GrapeVine website or on their My Space page.

Catholic Music returns to the airwaves on Relevant Radio

2009-02-24T21:36:00.000-05:00

"The Nightwatch", a Catholic music staple on Relevant Radio over the years is set to make a triumphant comeback on March 7.

"The Nightwatch" will air live on Saturday nights from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m., U.S. Central Time, on these stations:

Relevant Radio 1330 (AM) WLOL, Minneapolis-St. Paul
Relevant Radio 100.1 (FM) WPJP, Port Washington-Milwaukee, WI
Relevant Radio 1240 (AM) WHFA, Madison, WI
Relevant Radio 92.9 (FM) WMMA, Wisconsin Rapids, WI
Relevant Radio 93.9 (FM) WNYW, Wausau, WI
Relevant Radio 1050 (AM) WDVM, Eau Claire, WI
Relevant Radio 1570 (AM) WKBH, LaCrosse, WI

In addition, "The Nightwatch" will be heard on webstreams accessible from the following websites...

http://www.relevantradio1330.com
http://www.relevantradiomilwaukee.com
http://www.relevantradio1240.com

All stations will also air a repeat of the show on Sunday night (Monday morning) from midnight to 3 a.m.

Host Paul Sadek gives major credit to his general manager, Brian Acker, for his work promoting the show to other stations in the Relevant Radio apostolate; and to Matt Beardsley, operations manager at Relevant Radio 100.1 FM in Port Washington-Milwaukee, for being the first station outside of the Twin Cities to "take the plunge" and commit to carrying the show.

Paul describes the nature of the show this way, "The music will be almost exclusively Catholic artists, and we'll keep the phone lines open to visit with listeners about their ongoing journeys to holiness and to the Lord. And, at the beginning of the second hour of "The Nightwatch," we'll take a little break with an episode of "Family Theater," from the 1940's and 50's."

My head is spinning...because this is looking bigger than it ever got when it was on the air before...and we're still a week-and-a-half away from the launch!

"The Nightwatch" is truly a one-man show with Paul producing, running board, call-screening, answering mail, and other duties while running the radio station the rest of the week. They are still seeking a sponsor; confidence is high that with this kind of potential reach--seven stations and three webstreams--a potential sponsor will come forward.

Thanks to the hard work and dedication of Paul Sadek, Catholic music will again be made available on the airwaves.

Proud2BCatholic.com soon to be under the umbrella of Franciscan University

2009-02-24T21:17:00.000-05:00

For over eight years, Proud2BCatholic.com has brought you the latest information on Catholic music festivals, conferences, and programs for young Catholics.

Starting March 1, 2009, Proud2BCatholic.com will sport a new look and features under the umbrella of Franciscan University.

Proud2BCatholic.com will now offer Catholic podcasts, videos, and news. There will be links to popular Catholic Web sites, and as always, news of upcoming Franciscan University events for young Catholics across the U.S. and Canada.

If attending college is in your future, you can read entertaining and helpful postings from Franciscan University students, and apply for one of 10 Franciscan scholarships that will be offered exclusively to Proud2BCatholic visitors.

As always, the Web site will provide Web media for Catholic youth and families to celebrate the Catholic faith together as one universal family of God.

This exciting news by Franciscan University is accompanied by sadness for fans of the Proud 2B Catholic Events, since the annual festivals and other nationally hosted festivals will be discontinued or renamed by their local organizers. The founders of Proud 2B Catholic will not let the opportunities for Catholic evangelization events that began on the North Shore several years ago come to an end. So they have teamed up with parishes in the Peabody / Boston-North area to form a new event, Extreme NORTH. This series of events will kick-off in October 2009 and will include big name, Catholic speakers. Details will be available soon, only at www.ExtremeNORTH.org

Please keep Proud2BCatholic.com on your favorites list, and take a tour of the redesigned Web site by Franciscan University on March 1! Also, please add ExtremeNORTH.org to your watch list for Boston-area events for teens and families.

If you are seeking information about Extreme East events in Attleboro, MA please visit www.SteubenvilleEast.org.

For further information about the future of Proud2BCatholic.com, please contact: Tom Sofio, 740-284-5893 tsofio@franciscan.edu.

Questions regarding Boston area events with the new Extreme NORTH may be emailed to: extremenorth@comcast.net

Video Update from John Michael Talbot on the Brothers and Sisters of Charity after the ice storm

2009-02-19T12:40:00.001-05:00

"We Cry Justice" digital release Feb. 18

2009-02-19T09:50:00.000-05:00

WE CRY JUSTICE!

From ACTS Evangelism & Worship and HeartBeat Records, the long awaited new album from SAL SOLO is here. You can be the first to preview the album and purchase for your iPod:

http://www.digstation.com/AlbumDetails.aspx?albumid=ALB000027299

As with other digital downloads, price is $0.99 per song or $9.99 for the entire album. There are 14 tracks on the album.

It has been several years since Sal has released a new project, so We Cry Justice! is much anticipated, and is generating excitement.

He comments, "We have a publisher coming back to us with some proposals for a Study Guide book to complete the set, and they are pretty keen too. The videos seem to have really helped people see the potential."

Sal's signature multimedia live performances with We Cry Justice! are going well too. He says, "When I have started performing the songs in my retreats, the kids really seem to pay attention. Once again, I guess the videos really do the trick - it's like they're watching MTV!"

For more information on We Cry Justice!, visit www.myspace.com/salsolo.

Matt Maher's "Your Grace is Enough" is a favorite on CCLI

2009-02-13T12:43:00.000-05:00

reported by Nick Alexander

The latest results from the CCLI poll show that Matt Maher's "Your Grace Is Enough" has finally cracked the Top 15. In fact, it's currently at #13, ahead of praise and worship favorites "God of Wonders", "Breathe", "The Heart of Worship" and "Trading My Sorrows."

In fact, six other Maher tracks broke the Top 2000. They are:


Position	TITLE


569	As It Is In Heaven
1019	For Your Glory
1216	Great Things
1796	Just Like You
1797	Overflow
1862	Lay It Down

"As it is in Heaven" a reworking of The Our Father, and "Great Things" (a reworking of the Magnificat), debuted off of Maher's latest album, "Empty And Beautiful."

Jim Cowan, by contrast, has two songs in the Top 2000:"When It's All Been Said and Done" and "For Your Name Is Holy." John Michael Talbot has only one song, "I Am the Bread of Life."

Catholic favorites "They'll Know We Are Christians By Our Love" (Scholtes), "I Am the Resurrection" (Repp), and "Let the Fire Fall" (Misulia) also made the list. Catholic fave "As I Kneel Before You" is also on the list.

Christian Copyright Licensing International (CCLI) was established in 1988 as an independent firm to provide all Christian churches with simple, affordable solutions to complex copyright issues. CCLI helps churches maintain their integrity and avoid costly lawsuits, while also giving churches the freedom to worship expressively and spontaneously. Some of the most well-known Christian songs including "Lord, I Lift Your Name on High" are included in CCLI's vast library of songs. Most, if not all, denominations are represented.

Visit www.ccli.com for more information.

Greg Walton wins Songdoor International Songwriting Competition in the Alternative Song Division

2009-02-04T16:34:00.001-05:00

ALBIE Entertainment and JesusGlue Ministries is pleased to announce that TUNE OF IGNORANCE by GREG WALTON is the winner in the ALTERNATIVE Category for the 2008 SONGDOOR INTERNATIONAL SONGWRITING COMPETITION. The focus of TUNE OF IGNORANCE rotates around the idea of social justice and community action. The song has received significant radio airplay and has charted for over 20 weeks on the CRW Global AC and CHR charts.

To hear the full version of the song visit www.sonicbids.com/gregwalton

To watch the video of Greg discussing the song and his coordinating impact project visit www.myspace.com/gregwaltondotcom

For additional information on the SONGDOOR INTERNATIONAL SONGWRITING COMPETITION visit www.songdoor.com

Greg Walton continues to remain steadfast in his dedication to ministry and has never given up on his pursuit of excellence in his music. He is the recipient of 3 UNITY AWARDS presented by the UCMVA and performance opportunities throughout his career have taken him all over the United States, Canada and Europe. He has performed at hundreds of youth rallies, LIFETEEN events, dozens of festivals and evangelical events, and some of the world’s largest ecumenical gatherings including World Youth Day, Creation Festival, NCYC, Kingdom Bound and others. Greg has shared the stage with celebrated artists including PolarBoy, Ceili Rain, DC Talk, Newsboys and others. His music has been distributed by Catholic Music Network, Troubadour for the Lord, Spring Arbor Music, HeartBeat Distribution, and most recently, SpiritandSong Records/OCP. Greg Walton has an impressive track record for an independent artist, but first and foremost he is a dedicated husband, father, youth leader, music minister, and keynote speaker.

For additional information in regards to hosting GREG WALTON for your event, please contact gwgigs@aol.com or call (615) 500-8627.

Miracle on the Hudson: Divine Mercy and Flight 1549

2009-02-03T14:25:00.000-05:00

Note: I received this email from Vinny Flynn, author of 7 Secrets of the Eucharist, a book that was reviewed in the Fall 2007 issue of GrapeVine Magazine. This letter details some amazing blessings that took place during the US Air flight which crashed into the Hudson River with, miraculously, no loss of life. After the letter, I have reprinted the review of Flynn's book and information on where it can be purchased. Editor.

From Vinny Flynn:

I'd like to share with you an e-mail letter I received from a survivor of the January 15 crash of US air flight 1549 into the Hudson River. For me, personally, reading it was a very moving experience, because the writer mentions that my book 7 Secrets of the Eucharist brought him comfort as the plane went down, and it is always humbling and rewarding to hear how God has used our efforts to bring people closer to Him and
His healing touch.

But on another level, the letter is also a powerful witness to God's
love and to the often hidden ways He orchestrates events in our lives.
I pray it will be a reminder to you of how personally God wants to be
involved with each of us and how powerfully He can work in our lives
when we remain aware of His presence with expectant trust in His mercy.

Here's the letter. May it bless you!

Vinny Flynn

Sat, 24 Jan 2009 2:08 pm
Subject: Passenger of flight 1549

Vinny,

I sincerely hope this email finds its way to you. I was a passenger
on flight 1549 and my name is Fred Berretta. You might have
caught a glimpse of me or heard me on CNN or Fox the night of
the crash. I interviewed with Lou Dobbs, Wolf Blitzer and Bill O'Reilly
and discussed the crash that night.

I had been on a one day business trip to NY and sat in seat 16A
just behind the left engine. My trip was a last minute decision the
day before. I finished my meetings early on Thursday and realized
I had time to attend the 12 noon mass at St. Patrick Cathedral. It was
unusual for me to have the extra time, but that day I did. After Mass,
I stopped by the gift shop just across from the cathedral and
purchased your book, 7 Secrets of the Eucharist. As I waited to board
flight 1549 bound for Charlotte, where I live, I began reading your
book. I continued reading while we taxied until just after take off.

I think I got through about half of it and then decided to close my
eyes and reflect on the incredible insights your book gave me regarding the
Eucharist. We were climbing out and just a minute or so into the flight
I heard the impact of the bird strikes and then the explosion in the
left engine. I could see it on fire and the cabin began to smell like jet
fuel. As a private pilot, once I realized the second engine was also not
functioning, things became quite tense.

While I had known about and prayed the Divine Mercy chaplet years
before, I had not really focused on it in quite a long time. Ironically, I had prayed the chaplet the day before at 3 pm. I had forgotten that in my briefcase I had long kept a copy of a booklet of the Divine Mercy chaplet which had exerpts from St. Faustina's diary. When I arrived in NY, I had some time at my hotel and decided to clean out my briefcase, something long overdue. I found the Divine Mercy booklet, prayed the
chaplet, and read some of the words of Jesus to Faustina.

Before we hit the water, I thought about the words Jesus said, that
nothing would be refused if asked for during the hour of mercy.* I
really thought there was a good chance myself and others would die
that day, but I asked God to be merciful to us, I prayed the Lord'
prayer and a Hail Mary. I then prayed to St. Michael, and we impacted the
water. The odds were not with us that day, but God clearly was. I believe it
is the only jet airliner to successfully ditch in the water without
fatalities in the history of aviation.

I just want you to know that your book gave me comfort as we were
going down, and for that I am grateful. I know a lot of people prayed
on that plane, and I believe the Miracle on the Hudson was a testament
to the mercy of God, and a sign of hope.

Take care and may God continue to bless your ministry and all you do to
spread the message of Divine Mercy and the wonders of Holy Communion.

Best regards,

Fred Berretta

*Flight 1549 crashed into the Hudson River during the 3 O'clock hour
(at about 3:30 pm), which Christ told St. Faustina is "the hour of
great mercy."
It was during this hour that His heart was pierced by a lance, and
blood and water gushed forth as a fountain of mercy for the world. "In this
hour," He told her, "I will refuse nothing to the soul that makes a request of Me
in virtue of My Passion." (Diary of St. Faustina, #1182, 1320.)

Link to video:
http://www.videosift.com/video/US-Airways-Flight-1549-Survivor-talks-to-Bill-O-Reilly

7 Secrets of the Eucharist
VINNY FLYNN
MercySong Ignatius Press
December 2006
Softcover, 131 pages (BOOK)

Vinny Flynn is a gifted writer, musician and speaker and is best known for the musical Chaplet of Divine Mercy that is broadcast each weekday at 3pm on EWTN, featuring Still Waters, his family. His first work published under his own name, 7 Secrets of the Eucharist, is about a subject he has researched all his life and loves with all of his heart. Flynn is the Executive Director of MercySong Ministries of Healing in Stockbridge, MA (home to the National Shrine of Divine Mercy) and has been speaking, writing and teaching about the Eucharist for many years. In his years of teaching he found again and again that people simply did not know what the Church taught about the Eucharist. He found that even daily communicants who never missed mass and were devoted to the Eucharist through adoration did not know many of the basic truths. He soon felt led to write a book about the Eucharist that would include the deep theological truths usually only available to academics and theologians, but would be simply written so that all could understand. This Flynn has achieved with stunning success in 7 Secrets of the Eucharist.

This book is a deceptively easy read. I am a notoriously slow reader and yet I could read each chapter in 5-10 minutes and understand, at least on the surface, what he was trying to convey. Flynn is very experienced at taking complex theology and making it accessible to the average person, having done this for years in his work editing and ghost writing for the National Shrine of Divine Mercy. Each chapter lays out a ‘secret’ – actually truths that are well documented in the Church but are secrets nonetheless because so few people know of them. The beauty of this book is that once you read the chapter, you walk away with the knowledge, and as you pray on that knowledge, the secrets unfold like beautiful flowers. And that knowledge keeps unfolding and keeps growing. Flynn even mentions at the end of the book that there are many more secrets to discover about the Eucharist as one prays and meditates on the 7 he has laid out.

In my own experience, going to mass and receiving the Eucharist has changed forever – I will never look at mass or the host the same way again. I only knew 3 of the secrets the first time I
attended mass after beginning the book, and I found there wasn’t nearly enough time at mass to meditate on all 3 secrets because they are so vast. This was very exciting to me and it opened a whole new world. When I received the Eucharist, I had to pause and look at it before consuming it because of the new and wonderful things I knew about it.

As I prayed my rosary, some of those ‘other secrets’ that Flynn alluded to began to be revealed to me. I finished 7 Secrets of the Eucharist in a few short days but the flowers will continue to unfold, and will multiply, for days, weeks and even years to come. Flynn draws upon a wealth of sources including the scriptures and writings from three well-known modern-day saints, St. Faustina, Padre Pio and St. Therese of Lisieux, as well as Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI. Flynn was a major part of the process of translating St. Faustina’s diary into English through his work with the National Shrine of Divine Mercy. Many critics have said that this book is a “must read.” I have to agree. You will never think of the Eucharist in the same way again. It is 131 pages of pure power.

You can purchase 7 Secrets of the Eucharist through MercySong’s website at mercysong.com. It is also available through the Catholic Company and Amazon. The Catholic Company’s podcast, The Catholic Spotlight, features an interview with Vinny Flynn where he discusses the book in detail. Visit their website at catholicspotlight.com and listen to episode #13.

Update from John Michael regarding the ice storm

2009-02-03T14:18:00.000-05:00

(Note: The Brothers and Sisters of Charity are still in need of your help. Please go to http://www.troubadourforthelord.com/scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=415. to make your donation. Editor.

February 3, 2009

Peace and Good in Christ!

We are finally seeing light at the end of the tunnel after what will be called The Great Ice Storm of 09. The ice is melting, and spirits are rising. There is a chance that we might have power restored in the next few days. Even though our main generator died in the thick of the crisis, we are able to replace it through the most generous gifts of our benefactors. We are very grateful to God and to them!

These days have been an experience of working together in more primitive conditions. Working together is always a great community builder. We have worked to restore power for water, heat, and lights through generators and propane heaters. Some of our places have only gotten wood heat. Our few lights go out at sundown, and heaters are always kept on low. Water pumps are turned off at night. All is in conservation mode.

Internet and phones have been minimal, and only for a few. Personally, I have been able to create and follow up on our reports and fundraising efforts with our community e-mail network, websites, chat rooms, and e-mailing list through this crisis. This was most important.

We have learned some important lessons through this crisis.

The most important lesson is to be totally dependent on God. In our technological society it is so easy to become dependent on that technology in order to find our sense of security and well being. When those things fail, we sometimes realize that, despite our religious language, we are often far from real relationship with God interiorly.

The experiences of our secular and religious pioneers come to mind. In times past no electric power was available. Everyone heated with wood. Cold mornings and trips to the outhouse were just the way things were. It was not until the 20th century that we enjoyed indoor plumbing, and it was only after WWII that "electric households" became a reality, and then mainly in the city. But we seemed to do alright.

I recall my first visits to Franciscan and Carmelite houses in Ireland 20 years ago. The only heated rooms in the house were the kitchen and dining room (refectory), and the recreation room. The Benedictine monks of old appropriately called this the "warming room." The church was usually unheated, and one wore the ample tunics, cloaks and mantles of the religious habit of one's community to keep warm. To have a heated private room was unheard of. I remember the brothers getting a good chuckle when I (the "American") innocently asked for a heater in my room!

We are a spoiled generation. Our parents experienced the end of the Great Depression, and after coming back from WWII vowed that their kids would never have to experience such deprivation again. They gave us everything we wanted, and we got used to it. This only made us self centered and soft. So we end up upset a lot of the time, unless of course we get what we want! This has made us consumerists. Consumerism consumes the consumer.

Unfortunately some of us have passed this on to our kids. They say that fewer kids are willing to work their way through school now than ever before. They will not work at menial tasks because they only want the top jobs. And their parents support them in this! No wonder more and more people come in from outside to do the manual work that keeps the social and economic wheels of producing food, clothing, and shelter moving.

Ironically, it is our generation that now faces the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. Perhaps our consumerism has run its course? Perhaps this is God's reminder to come back to Him, and Him alone. Then all these other things will take care of themselves through humble and honest work.

A Cardinal of the Church in Rome once told me that he believed that one of the great gifts of our integrated monastic community of celibates, singles, and families was restoring solid values and practices to the Catholic family. He commented that vocations to priesthood and religious life, as well as matrimony, from our generation are often tenuous at best because of the character flaws mentioned above. When we do not "get what we want" from family members we often carry baggage that makes relationships with spiritual fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters very difficult.

This is not to say that Jesus cannot call us and correct this through His grace. He did this with likes of St. Augustine. Sometimes it is precisely that life with spiritual fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters that can heal this illness, and bring us back to full health in Christ. But most religious communities of the past wanted candidates from solid Catholic homes who had been properly formed in good faith and morality through the theory and practice that builds good character. Without being self righteous about it, we have a chance to try to change some of this trend with The Brothers and Sisters of Charity at Little Portion. But even then, without God's grace we will not succeed.

The Great Ice Storm of 2009 has put us back in touch with the basics, and has reminded us to be totally dependent on God, in loving communion with our brothers and sisters, and grateful for even the basics of life. It reminds us of our call to live simply after the example of Jesus and His disciples, and the monks, nuns, brothers and sisters of the entire consecrated community tradition of the Church.

Yes, we will continue to use technology. It is through the computer and internet that I am writing this now. Our fundraising over the last couple of days was only made possible through them. But I hope that we do not forget the truth that we can get by without them if we have to, and should not place our sense of security and well being upon them. That trust, that faith, hope, and love should be reserved for God alone.

So thank you for your thoughts and prayers. Please keep them coming! The power is not restored yet! Thank you as well for your most generous donations. We try to use them frugally and efficiently. Most especially thank God for our times of comfort, and our times of trial. They help to make us strong.

In Jesus,

John Michael Talbot
Founder, and Spiritual Father
The Brothers and Sisters of Charity at Little Portion Hermitage

Plea for help from the Brothers and Sisters of Charity

2009-01-31T11:53:00.000-05:00

Last week, much of the central, southern and northeastern parts of the United States were hit with a severe snow and ice storm. Arkansas has been hit especially hard. The Brothers and Sisters of Charity, a monastic community headed by well-known Catholic performer and recording artist John Michael Talbot, is in the thick of this disaster as their hermitage is located in near Eureka Springs. You may recall that last year, the main buildings of the Hermitage were destroyed in a devastating fire and the membership has just started rebuilding.

John Michael details what happened in this letter:

Brothers and Sisters,

Little Portion Hermitage has suffered the full weight of the recent severe ice storm. We have been cut off and without power since around 10 PM Monday night. The weather is now clearing and warming, but we are still without power, phones, and internet until mid to late next week according to "reports." There is little information available.

Currently we are low on diesel for generators to run limited electric for lights, water, and some heat. We do have small propane heaters for places without adequate heat. We only wood heat in a couple of places.

Our mountain road is still impassible for anything but farm trucks with chainsaws to cut their way out due to fallen trees. At least tire chains are no longer necessary. We will be seriously clearing this in the next couple of days. Then cars and the diesel trucks can come and go. But fuel is in low supply, and at best that will only provide minimal electric.

We are considering evacuation of some of our 35+ people as a last resort, with a skeletal work crew left at the Hermitage. Hopefully it will not come to that.

This has made us painfully aware that old backup systems were not maintained and updated. We will be correcting that as soon as we are out of this immediate crisis.

Please pray for us that power will be restored, or minimal provisions can be supplied and maintained. Pray for those even harder hit. I cannot imagine facing this alone without community. We are blessed.

He followed up with another note when asked how people could help:

The Hermitage has been hit by the largest natural disaster to hit northern Arkansas in recent history. We have been told that it could be up to three weeks before power is restored to our area.

Many have asked how they can help us. People have offered places to stay, propane and heaters, and volunteered labor.

We could really use donations for extra generators and the thousands of gallons of fuel we are, and will be consuming to keep the monastery, our ministries, and the farm going.

Please pray about a generous gift to help us through this overwhelming natural disaster.

Using your credit card, you can send your donation to http://www.troubadourforthelord.com/scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=415.

Please consider helping the Brothers and Sisters of Charity get through this difficult period.

Liam Neeson Records the Way of the Cross

2009-01-27T21:04:00.000-05:00

Prayers & Music by St. Alphonsus Maria Liguori

DENVER, Colorado, January 26, 2009 – Liam Neeson, one of the leading international motion picture actors of our day, is the featured narrator on a very special CD production for Lent, Praying the Way of the Cross (Available for Ash Wednesday, February 25, 2009).

Neeson reads the Introduction, written by St. Alphonsus Maria Liguori, and the 14 Stations of the Cross. The 14 Stations and prayers are taken from the classic text, The Way of the Cross according to the Method of St. Alphonsus Liguori, the great 18th century Italian saint, doctor of the Church and founder of the Redemptorists. This text is used by Catholics around the world to retrace the footsteps of Jesus Christ on Good Friday.

“I had heard about the Redemptorists and their missionary work in the Amazon rain forest of Brazil and in the slums of Lagos and Ibadan, Nigeria,” Liam Neeson said. “I was moved to help because the Redemptorists are living the Gospel message in some of the poorest parts of the world, offering hope to families who have been forgotten or abandoned.”

Whether it is his Academy Award® nominated role of Oskar Schindler in Steven Spielberg’s highly acclaimed “Schindler’s List” (1993), or his award-winning portrayal of legendary Irish Republican hero, “Michael Collins” (1996), Liam Neeson continues to display an acting range matched by few.

Currently, Neeson is shooting “After Life” opposite Christina Ricci. Last year, Neeson completed production on Pierre Morel’s “Taken,” which is due out in the U.S. on January 30, 2009. Neeson recently finished shooting Richard Eyre’s “The Other Man,” and he is currently filming "Five Minutes of Heaven" for BBC Northern Ireland.

In May of 2008 Neeson appeared in Disney's box office success “The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian” where he reprised his role as the voice of the lion, Aslan, in the sequel to the 2005 hit “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.”

Praying the Way of the Cross is the third CD produced for the Redemptorists of the Denver Province by Ray and Theresa Herrmann, co-founders of Little Lamb Music. In 2007 and 2008, respectively, they produced Praying the Rosary with St. Alphonsus Maria Liguori and Praying the Seven Sorrows of Mary with St. Alphonsus Maria Liguori. The saint’s music is produced, arranged and performed on all three CDs by the Herrmanns and other musicians and vocalists from some of the world’s finest orchestras and choral groups. Ray and Theresa started Little Lamb Music in 2006 with their first release, Little Lamb Lullabies. Little Lamb Music is dedicated to providing families with high-quality Catholic music.

Ray Herrmann is a Grammy-award winning musician and one of the world’s finest session players and instrumentalists. He has spent the last 20 years playing with and arranging music for some of the biggest names in American music: Diana Ross, Chicago, Bob Dylan, Santana, LeeAnn Rimes, Stevie Wonder, George Benson and Herbie Hancock. Ray is also in the house band on the hit television show, American Idol. www.rayherrmann.com

On hearing Liam in the studio, Ray Herrmann said, “I was deeply moved by Liam’s reading of the words of St. Alphonsus. It was so beautifully done. And I feel very proud to be a part of this production, one that celebrates Good Friday with the voice of one of the world’s greatest actors with the sacred hymns and prayers of this great saint of the Church.”

These are the first CDs produced in the United States to feature the music of St. Alphonsus. Praying the Way of the Cross retails for $16.95 (shipping & handling not included). Proceeds from the sale of the CDs support the work of the Redemptorist missions in Brazil and Nigeria.

To order CDs go to www.littlelambmusic.com or call 1-800-231-1207.

Announcement between HeartBeat Records and DS Music Productions was Premature

2009-01-27T18:06:00.000-05:00

GrapeVine received this notice from the Catholic Marketing Network:

"CMN would like to apologize for the premature announcement of an agreement being finalized between HeartBeat Records and DS Music Productions. DS Music Productions was not contacted by CMN prior to the release of this information and CMN has been made aware that HeartBeat Records and DS Music Productions did not 'reach an agreement.' Commenting on the matter, Damien Scallon, President of DS Music Productions, stated that "there are still outstanding matters left to be determined by the Judge, and all parties have the right to appeal the Judge's decision to a higher court. We wish to thank everyone for their prayers and support during this time."

Susan Stein of HeartBeat Records stated, "the ruling of 'Joint Ownership' is in place by DECREE of a Federal Judge that 'Heart Beat and D S Music own jointly the recordings recorded by Dana on Heart Beat records label.' "

She continued, "Even if there is an appeal it will take up to 10 months for it to complete and the "Decree" will stay in effect till the completion of the appeal ( should it happen and should it be changed)."

GrapeVine also apologizes for the error. Please keep all the parties involved in your prayers.

Exciting new project on social justice to be released

2009-01-09T15:16:00.000-05:00

Watch out this winter for a new project covering the important topic of social justice in light of Catholic teaching from ACTS Evangelism and Worship, and artist Sal Solo.

Known as We Cry Justice!, the DVD and CD project (in partnership with Catholic Relief Services and distributed by HeartBeat Records) is Solo's most ambitious project since his groundbreaking multimedia Mass, Anno Domini. We Cry Justice! is a comprehensive treatment of social justice, each song covering a different facet:

1. GENESIS
Creation, Cain and Abel, Tower of Babel .... Basically showing how injustice first came into the world.

2. MONEY
About the distribution of wealth and resources on the planet, and the big gap between populations and wealth per head.

3. CRY OF THE POOR
Also known as "Option for the poor" in Catholic social teaching. The rap makes reference to homeless in America.

4. I CHOOSE LIFE
The right to life in every area: stem cell, euthanasia, capital punishment.

5. SILENT SCREAM
Specifically about abortion and teen pregnancy.

6. YEAH LADY
Child brides and female circumcision (FGC or FGM)

7. A.I.D.S. AFRICA
The poorest nations of the world. Why they are poor. That we enslaved them and crippled them with debt.

8. EVIL PROSPERS WHEN GOOD PEOPLE DO NOTHING
Highlighting racism, as in Auschwitz.

9. 50¢ A DAY
Workers rights. Pay discrepancy etc .

10. I SHALL BE RELEASED
9/11 footage in this one - that the number dying each day from hunger is far greater.

11. IF YOU WANNA SEE PEACE, WORK FOR JUSTICE
The world spends more on arms than feeding the poor.

12. ONE HUMAN FAMILY
The relation between our everyday things and the rest of the world.

13. WE CRY JUSTICE
This really sums up the whole thing - wars, child prostitutes, begging...

14. RAINFOREST
This is an instrumental drawing attention to our duty to protect the planet

Preliminary reviews have this to say about We Cry Justice!:

"Truly motivating. It really has the power to touch all people on all different levels"
Rob Kaczmark, Spirit Juice Studios

"Just to watch the trailer was an emotional experience! Leave it to Sal to reach into the heart with music and visuals."Stephen Schnee, Hands and Hearts, CA

"Innovative, exciting and ground-breaking; a truly new approach to social justice teaching through multi-media. The '50 cents a day' idea will inspire many, young and old, to open their hearts to the poor. This is an important new project for the Church." Susan Bailey, GrapeVine

Through ACTS, Sal Solo conducts youth rallies, retreats and concerts all over the world. In bringing We Cry Justice! to the public, Solo explains, "I will begin to incorporate it into my retreats, including discussion materials to follow it. I have a call and answer thing with the kids which says "We are here to EDUCATE, to MOTIVATE, and to ASK OURSELVES; WHAT CAN I DO?" It is essential to focus on putting the message into action. We have plans for a study guide, which should be a valuable addition. "

In this interview conducted at the Catholic Marketing Network trade show last spring, Solo explains the project further and how it came to be:

ACTS released a promo which will give you a taste of the project:

Visit ACTS Evangelism and Worship, and artist Sal Solo for booking information and the official release date of We Cry Justice!.

THE PRIESTS debut CD (RCA Victor) has sold over1 million copies worldwide since its release

2008-12-17T14:07:00.000-05:00

Biggest chart increase for any album on Billboard's Top 200 Chart this week-
up 218%!

Moves to #66 (from 170) on the
Billboard Top 200 Chart

#1 on Current Classical Traditional Chart
#4 on Top Christian/Gospel Chart
#4 on Current Contemporary Christian chart
#5 on Current Classical Overall Chart

Hear how "The Priests" were signed by Epic Records

2008-12-11T11:12:00.000-05:00

Nick Raphael of Epic Records (a division of Sony/BMG) was recently interviewed on the public radio program, "The World," carried on NPR (www.theworld.org) about his amazing decision to sign and promote 3 Irish Catholic priests. You can hear it here:

The Priests' debut album is proving to be a big hit! Here is a press release from Sony/BMG:

Three Irish Priests = 4 U.S. #1s!!!

Straight to #1 on Amazon's Sales Chart

And following their "CBS Sunday Morning Appearance:"

#1 Heatseekers Chart
#1 Current Classical Traditional Chart
#1 Top New Artist Album Chart
#5 Current Classical Overall Chart

THE PRIESTS SELF-TITLED ALBUM IS DIVINE GLOBAL SMASH

Internationally Holds #1 Spot in Ireland (4x Platinum) and Norway (Platinum), #3 Sweden (Platinum), and #5 in the UK (Platinum)

(NEW YORK) - A vocal trio of three Roman Catholic priests from Ireland is creating an international musical sensation as The Priests. After a feature aired on CBS Sunday Morning this week, capturing The Priests while recording their album at the Vatican, their album skyrocketed to #1 on the Amazon sales chart. Also, The Priests' PBS Special began airing Thanksgiving weekend and continues to air across the country for the PBS pledge drive. The self-titled album The Priests (RCA Victor) this week soars to #1 on the Heatseekers Chart, #1 on the Current Classical Traditional Chart, #1 on the Top New Artist Albums Chart, and #5 on the Current Classical Overall chart.

The Priests are Father Eugene O'Hagan, Father Martin O'Hagan and Father David Delargy; three practicing Roman Catholic Priests from Northern Ireland who grew up singing together while studying for the priesthood, and all joined by their shared faith and passion for music.

The Priests was released simultaneously in more than 30 countries, fulfilling an unprecedented global demand, and is being embraced worldwide with stellar charting success. The Priests have been certified as the having the fastest selling UK debut for a classical act by the Guinness World Book of Records. The album debuted at #1 in Ireland (4x platinum), #5 in the UK (platinum), and currently holds the #1 spot in Norway (platinum), #3 in Sweden (platinum), #4 in New Zealand (gold), #7 in Spain, #8 in Finland (gold), and has achieved gold status in Canada.

Additionally, The Priests have stated that the majority of the profits from the sale of their album will be given to charity. The Priests are delighted with the tremendous success of the album, and are currently back in their parishes in Northern Ireland preparing for Christmas festivities.

Featuring a collection of spiritually inspired tracks such as O Holy Night, Pie Jesu, Ave Maria, Panis Angelicus, as well as great classical arias and traditional Irish tracks and blessings, the album showcases the passion and exquisite harmonies of The Priests. The album has been produced by Mike Hedges, whose previous work includes best selling albums by U2 and Manic Street Preachers. The album, featuring the Choir of Philharmonic Academy of Rome, was recorded in Ireland and in the Choir Chapel in St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City. The choral arrangements are by the choir's Spanish born director, Mons Pablo Colino, the Emeritus Director of the Cappella Giulia choir in St Peter's Basilica.

For more information check out www.thepriests.com

Reports from NCCYM

2008-12-08T11:34:00.000-05:00

NCCYM (the National Conference on Catholic Youth Ministry) took place in Cleveland, OH, from Dec. 4-7. Their website describes NCCYM as " the largest adult conference for Catholic Youth Ministers in the country. It is sponsored biennially on even numbered years by the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry in order to help form and transform adults ministering to youth in the Catholic church. Thousands of youth and campus ministers, religious education leaders, performers and artists and volunteers from every level come together for four days of inspiring keynotes, challenging workshops, dynamic prayer and worship, helpful networking, extensive resources, and good-hearted entertainment."

This post will feature reports from various artists who participated in the conference.

From Paul Hilts:

I had the pleasure of sharing the CAM Booth with four other Catholic
artists: Nick Cardilino, Bryan Murdaugh, George Lower, and Alex
Kubik. We got along famously and had a blast together! It was great
meeting other Catholic artists, those both well-known in the industry
and those just getting started. We had several impromptu CAM Jams at
our booth:

Sales were a bit slow... in fact, other vendors who had been to NCCYM
before told us that this was the slowest they had ever seen it,
probably due to the economic recession.

We each had an opportunity to play on stage during the lunch hour,
and while the number of people in the cafeteria varied greatly from
artist to artist, it was still a fun experience:

Contemporary Catholic Music’s Leading Artists Unite to Fight Poverty

2008-12-07T11:28:00.000-05:00

PORTLAND, OR (DECEMBER 5, 2008) - Aiming to connect with the thousands in Cleveland for the National Conference on Catholic Youth Ministry, the best in contemporary Catholic music gathered for “Rock Out Poverty,” a charity concert event on Friday, Dec. 5. Award-winning spiritandsong.com artists like Steve Angrisano, ValLimar Jansen and Matt Maher came together to raise money and battle poverty at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

“Times are tough and getting tougher, and individuals and families are feeling that pinch,” said Sarah Hart, one of the popular artists scheduled to perform at the event. “Jesus said the greatest commandment after loving God was to love our neighbor. This is a wonderful opportunity to let those neighbors who need a hand know that they are not alone and that they are loved.”

Other top artists who took the stage were Josh Blakesley, Tom Booth, Santiago Fernández, Curtis Stephan, Jesse Manibusan and Who Do You Say I Am. Proceeds are going to the Catholic Charities Health and Human Services of Cleveland. The event was sponsored by OCP, RCL Benziger and the Diocese of Cleveland’s Youth and Young Adult Ministry and Catholic Youth Organization office.

“I’m thankful to even be part of such an honorable event among so many great artists,” said Blakesley. “It’s the least I could do for such a deserving cause and I hope I can help make a difference.”

Tickets for the evening included admission to the concert, a tour of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, and refreshments.

See a slide show of the concert and read more about it at
http://www.spiritandsong.com/node/5069

Rocking Romans sponsoring 2008 Music Video Contest

2008-12-01T12:42:00.000-05:00

Rocking Romans believes it is time to showcase the growing number of quality Catholic Music videos that have been produced over the past couple of years. Except for live performances, the best way for Catholic artists to expand their audience is through professionally produced videos. So welcome to the newest Rocking Romans online Catholic Music contest...video style.

Here are the rules for entry. Any Catholic band/artist (or videographer) can submit one or more music videos for consideration. Fill out this entry form, including a band/artist photo file and a link to wherever you have posted your video(s) for display. All submissions must be received before February 1, 2009. Rocking Romans will review your submission and determine if it is a fit with the goals of the contest. If the submission meets the necessary criteria, the link to the video will be posted on this site. Entries will be judged for musical and video production quality, creativity, emotional appeal, spiritual impact, and overall artistic finesse. A basic home video of an artist/or band playing at an event will not meet the contest's criteria and should not be submitted for consideration.

The goal of this competition is to create a steady of stream of Catholic Music videos that will be the foundation of one or more Catholic Music video progams produced for distribution with a focus on internet channels and Catholic television stations. So spread the word...this is a great opportunity to promote Catholic Music and should be Rocking Romans' best contest to date! If you want to see videos that have already been entered in the contest, follow this link to watch videos.

Visit http://www.rockingromans.com/contests/video2008 to enter the contest.

Special Video Shoot Offer from SpiritJuice

2008-11-29T09:12:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone,

I just wanted to pass the word out there to anyone who is preforming at NCCYM and would like to have a Promotional Video shot. Spirit Juice Studios will be there filming, and we are offering a NCCYM special price of $1000 for a 2-3 minute promo video. This is over 50% off our normal pricing. Also, the video will be shot in (HD) High Definition.

If you are interested or know an artist and/or a ministry who would interested, please have them be in contact with me ASAP. Feel free to call me on my cell 708-707-6784 or email me.

You can check out some of our latest work at:
http://vimeo.com/spiritjuice/videos

Thanks,
Rob Kaczmark

Get Ready for “Merry Christmas, New York City!”

2008-11-26T11:00:00.000-05:00

Producer, Lynn Geyer created “Merry Christmas, New York City!” three years ago as an uplifting musical celebration and reminder of what Christmas is meant to be. The concert takes place at Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center, NY on Saturday, December 20 at 2:00pm.

Reprising his role from 2007 as emcee, is award winning journalist, Raymond Arroyo, host of The World Over Live, broadcast on EWTN; he will be accompanied on piano by Rich Berretta. Our talented musicians include Fr. Stan Fortuna, CFR who has travels the world in itinerant music and youth ministry and is a favorite of both the young and young at heart. Also on board, are Fr. Charles and Laurie Mangano. Fr. Charles is the Pastor of Cure of Ars Parish in Merrick, Long Island and along with his sister, Laurie, shares the message of God’s love in popular and contemporary song. Accompanying Fr. Charles and Laurie will be dancers from the Ballet Company of June Claire.

Also on hand is Al Barbarino, part tenor, part crooner who is busy 52 weeks a year singing in churches raising awareness and money for the homeless of NY and those suffering in Croatia. Al also works in prison ministry, donating his time to counseling incarcerated youth. Dr. Jennifer Pascual, the first female Music Director of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in NY brings the NY Archdiocesan Festival Chorale to thrill us with magnificent choral pieces.

Recipients sharing the profit from the concert are the Saint Padre Pio Shelter in the Bronx and Catholic Charities for People with Developmental Disability at the behest of the ministries of Al Barbarino and Fr. Charles and Laurie Mangano, respectively.

We invite you to celebrate this blessed season by attending our spirited concert of Christmas music and inspirational witness to honor the One who started it all. “Merry Christmas, New York City!” may even be that unique gift you’ve been looking for to share the REAL reason for the season with someone you love!

Tickets are available at CenterCharge, 212-721-6500, online at www.lincolncenter.org
or at the box office, 10 Lincoln Plaza, Broadway/65th St. Prices: $50 and $75. Special discounted $25.00 ticket pricing for students and groups of ten or more.

Check out the website at www.MerryChristmasNewYorkCity.com

Top Catholic Songs announces top ten Christmas albums

2008-11-16T15:04:00.000-05:00

by Nick Alexander

Christmas and Advent 2008 is upon us. This is a tremendous opportunity to wait in expectant hope for the coming of our Risen Savior, but also a time to reflect upon His first coming as a precious infant. These albums provide the best in both contemporary and traditional carols, both servicing Advent and Christmas. I invite you to check them out at your leisure, and introduce them to your family.

Christmas Joy by Gretchen Harris
This Christmas album has a mix of classics and contemporaries, and an original, "Promised Messiah." (Try out: Joy to the World)

Bethlehem Morn by Chuck Stevens

This project contains 9 original songs and 4 traditional Christmas songs. These songs range from reflective, meditative, folk, and contemporary; the title track, "Joseph (Bethlehem Morn) was included in the Spiritwing Records "Catholic Christmas" compilation in 2007. All of the original pieces, and the traditionals came about as a result of prayer and reading the Gospels of St. Matthew and St. Luke, the book of the prophet Isaiah, and several are from the possible viewpoint of several of the participants in the Gospel infancy narratives. (Ex: Once in Royal David's City)

In His Presence...the Gift of Christmas by Trish Foti Genco
Beautifully orchestrated Christmas Classics. Including contemporary, arias, and New Orleans Jazz. (Ex: What Child Is This)

Happy Birthday Jesus-A Christmas Album by Donna Lee
This is a collection of traditional as well as original Christmas songs written by me and a couple of my fellow Catholic friends and musicians. (Ex: As I Kneel Before You)

Christmas Peace by Michael Zabrocki
A beautifully crafted collection of some of the most loved Christmas standards and some surprises. The beautiful orchestrations enhance Michael's warm vocals. Sure to become a Christmas standard. (Ex: The Cherry Tree Carol)

Peace On Earth (songs for Advent and Christmas) by Sean Clive
Recorded early in Sean Clive's solo career, Peace on Earth - songs for Advent and Christmas is a beautifully reflective album filled with traditional songs creating a mood that sets the listener apart from the fast-paced world of shopping and sales. This music will certainly soothe the weary soul during these hectic seasons. (Ex: Away In a Manger)

Christmas All Year Through by Lynn Geyer (Ex: Night of Silence/Silent Night)
An eclectic mix of styles and voices with something to please almost everyone. The music of this contemporary and uplifting CD will surely give you hope, joy and the added blessing of Christmas peace.

Come to the Stable by Nancy Krebs
This CD contains both original and traditional Christmas songs as well as one of my all-time favorite songs to sing. (Ex: Mary, Did You Know?)

Wait With Me: Advent of the Promised Son by Susan Bailey (Ex: Lo, How a Rose E'ere Blooming)
Wait with Me is a collection of songs, presented simply and quietly to reflect the true nature of the Advent season. It represents Susan's journey as she sought to quiet her soul and prepare to receive Jesus again this Christmas in my heart. It is hoped that these songs will help you in your preparation as well, and will lead you to a deeper spiritual experience this Christmas.

Take Me Back to Bethlehem by Elizabeth Schmeidler (Ex: Mary's Little Boy Child)
Each year at Christmas we attempt to create the perfect “Norman Rockwell” Christmas. Yet, somehow, amid the shopping, decorating, social functions, high-paced schedules, we can lose the meaning--our best attempts at creating happiness can come up short. While on my knees praying one day, I asked God to help me slow down and I talked with Him about how hard it is to appreciate the fullness of Christmas joy amid all the hustle and bustle. I said to Him, “Just take me back to Bethlehem.” In a moment’s breath, I was there at the stable watching Mary and Joseph care for Jesus. I could almost hear the angels sing….and then I knew. I realized the Father’s love and sacrifice of sending His only Son to earth, fully knowing what He would have to endure.

See Top Catholic Songs' full page advertisement in the holiday issue of Faith & Family Magazine.

GrapeVine Chosen to Manage Catholic.net Music Channel

2008-11-10T09:42:00.000-05:00

GrapeVine has been chosen as the provider and manager of Catholic.net's Music Channe l. This will greatly increase the exposure of Catholic music to the Catholic community at large. Editor Susan Bailey has already been busy posting with videos, podcasts and stories relating to the Unity Awards and other areas of Catholic music.

Catholic.net is owned by the same company that publishes Faith & Family Magazine and the National Catholic Register.

Check out the music channel at www.catholic.net/music.

Catholic Rockers Podcast Wins 2008 People's Choice Podcast Award

2008-11-10T09:37:00.001-05:00

Popular music podcast wins award for second year in a row

The 2008 People's Choice Podcast Awards were just announced and 'Catholic Rockers,' a podcast featuring the best in Catholic rock, hip hop, rap and alternative music, won The Podsafe Music Category for the second year in a row.

Host George Leite responded with surprise and gratitute. "I'm speechless I must say. This was very unexpected, but it goes to show the support that we all have. There were some great shows nominated, shows about rock and indie music, cover tunes and celtic music, and for a show about religious rock to come away with the award is such a blessing. God is good all the time."

Catholic Rockers is a part of the Catholic new media network, SQPN (Starquest Production Network). SQPN garnered a total of four awards in the 2008 People’s Choice Podcast Awards. Along with Leite's 'Catholic Rockers,' Fr. Leo Patalinghug’s video series ‘Grace Before Meals’ won the award in the Food and Drink category, and Fr. Roderick Vonhogen won two awards: ‘Healthy Catholic’ won in the Health and Fitness category, and his morning show ‘Daily Breakfast’ won the award in the category Religion and Inspiration.

You can find all these podcasts and more at www.sqpn.com.

News Briefs October 27, 2008

2008-10-27T13:06:00.000-04:00

THE THIRSTING has released a full album called Companions of the Lamb; they have been traveling over the past 6 months promoting the project. Hailing from the Northwest, The Thirsting was founded by band leader Daniel Oberreuter in the summer of 2006 and has been rocking Catholic music ever since. In January of 2007, the Thirsting released their first EP titled No Greater Love, then followed up in 2008 with Companions of the Lamb, packing a punch with Catholic rock gems unlike any heard before in the Catholic music world. Listen to sound samples and purchase your copy at http://cdbaby.com/cd/thirsting.

*****

THE FRANCISCAN SISTERS OF CHRISTIAN CHARITY feature Chris Hillman’s “Drifting” as their October Song of the Month, with a free download at http://www.fscc-calledtobe.org/living/ on their ‘Franciscanized World’ page.

The Franciscan Sisters gratefully recognize Chris Hillman during this month of celebrating St. Francis, drifter and dreamer. A pioneer of the genre known as “Country Rock,” Hillman’s career has spanned five decades. He’s been instrumental in developing and popularizing contemporary American music as an original member of the Byrds, and the Flying Burrito Brothers with Gram Parsons. More recently, he’s scored a number of hits with the Desert Rose Band.

“Drifting” is a gentle reflection on a world “Where no one had to be first, drifting in a dream of love’s surrender…” According to Hillman, ‘Drifting’ “basically describes a “Heavenly Environment” or aspiring for “Heaven on Earth”. We tried to convey a Christian message as are most of the songs I recorded on The Other Side CD.”

“We want to present our life as a viable option. Personal invitation is always best; however, we’re convinced that real conversations of discernment begin by using the language of images and music.” said Sr. Julie Ann Sheahan, OSF, Directress of Vocations for the Franciscan order.

Established in 1869, the Roman Catholic Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity serve in Catholic health care, education and parish ministries in 13 U.S. dioceses (Green Bay, Superior, Milwaukee, Phoenix, Tucson, Honolulu, Chicago, Marquette, Jackson, Lincoln, Omaha, Columbus and Steubenville). Visit their website at http://www.fscc-calledtobe.org.

*****

LAST DAY will be playing at the new Catholic Underground in Chicago on November 6th. Adoration is at 7pm and Last Day plays at 8pm. It is at University of Illinois at Chicago. See www.myspace.com/catholicundergroundchicago It is run by Spirit Juice - see this article about how and why this newest member of the Catholic Underground family is starting to do outreach in the Chicago area

*****

FR. STAN FORTUNA recently recorded some tracks at the studio of Catholic artist MANUEL3. Here is a video about those sessions:

From manuel3's blog:

"Father brought a jam with him he got while on the plane ride over. It's got a hook based off Psalm 36.

"We feast on the rich food of your house; from your delightful stream you give us drink. For with you is the fountain of life, and in your light we see light."

It's like Am / G / F / E7...with a cool interlude section as well as a funky breakdown. It ends with a double time samba...Dm / Am.

The vocals r hot. Father sings so well in unison and harmony with himself it's scary! If u click on the picture above u can c all the vocal tracks...that's alot of air.

But as many of u know, 4 Father that's nothing!!! Pray 4 us 2day...

*****
From SpiritandSong.com: Newcomer JACKIE FRANCOIS brings a powerful voice and a love of God to her debut album, Your Kingdom Is Glorious. Though her talent may be new to some listeners, she has honed her skills at live events for years with top performers like Matt Maher, Tom Booth and many others.

“She’s a powerful young minister and her music is already having an impact,” says Robert Feduccia, general manager of spiritandsong.com. “I’m excited for new fans to discover what the spiritandsong.com family already knows—Jackie is a rare talent with absolute commitment to her faith.”

Jackie is familiar to many spiritandsong.com devotees as a host on The Commons video interview program. Many more fans were introduced to Your Kingdom Is Glorious through the recent “5 For 5 For Free” promotion on the spiritandsong.com website, where listeners were able to download five songs from the new CD at no cost.

“I’m excited to share Your Kingdom Is Glorious with the world,” says Jackie. “I hope people enjoy this CD and sing this music in many worship settings. That’s the sole purpose of these songs—to praise God with them!”

Produced by Tom Booth and Jeff Thomas, the collection features 11 original songs and one cover. Animated praise-and-worship songs stand alongside serious rock tracks and delicate, hushed ballads.

With the release of this exuberant debut, Jackie has begun to tell the world of her love for God. It’s a story contemporary music fans can look forward to hearing for years to come.

For interview or photo requests, please contact Ben Peterson at benp@ocp.org or 503-460-5363. For video clips and song samples, go to www.spiritandsong.com/ykig.

© Copyright 2008 GrapeVine. Permission to copy or reprint this story must be obtained by writing to susan@gvonline.net. Used by permission.

Unity Award Winners

2008-10-25T22:55:00.001-04:00

A star-studded and beautifully performed awards program honored deserving Catholic artists with Unity Awards from the United Catholic Music and Video Association (UCMVA) - the "Catholic Grammy." Performers included Matt Maher, Trish Foti Genco, Tony Melendez, Kitty Cleveland, John Michael Talbot and many others.

Kudos go out to Philip Stein, the president of the UCMCA, Susie Gorell, Susan and Ron Stein, Trish Foti Genco, Bernie Klein and Dave Wang for making this show possible. Trish and Bernie were key to bringing the Unity Awards show to its new permanent home at Loyola University in New Orleans; Trish's relentless support of New Orleans musicians resulted in the live band and gospel choir that accompanied performances.

Watch the entire show here:

Here are the winners:

Song of the Year

Live Like Saints - John Grassadonia

Songwriter of the Year

John Grassadonia - Live Like Saints

Male Vocalist of the Year

John Michael Talbot

Female Vocalist of the Year

Kara Klein

Group of the Year

Daughters of St. Paul

Artist of the Year

Matt Maher

New Artist of the Year

Crystal Velazquez

Producer of the Year

Joe Hand – “Live Like Saints” from the Album “Live Like Saints” – Artist: John Grassadonia

Modern Rock Alternative/Rock
Song of the Year

Be My Everything - Chris Padgett

Gospel Song of the Year

Wade In The Water-ValLimar Jansen

Pop/Contemporary Song of the Year

Away from Myself - Noelle Garcia

Praise & Worship Song of the Year

Were You There? -Marilla Ness

Devotional Song of the Year

I Surrender -Sharmane

Country Song of the Year

Traces of Jesus - Dan Duet

Liturgical/Sacramental Song of the Year

Adoro Te Devote-Voice Trek

Modern Rock/Alternative Rock Album of the Year

Impact-Chris Padget

Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year

The Meaning of Life - Sammy Blaze

Gospel Album of the Year

Anointing - ValLimar & Frank Jansen

Pop/Contemporary
Album of the Year

Meet Me Where I Am-Noelle Garcia

Devotional Album of the Year

Living Water – 50th John Michael Talbott

Liturgical/Sacramental Album of the Year

Angels – Celestial Voices of Harmony-Voice Trek

Instrumental Album of the Year

Rejoice-Steve Hall

Praise & Worship Album of the Year

Live: Songs from the Road-Steve Angrisano

Children's Album of the Year

Hi God 6 -Carey Landry & Carol Jean Kinghorn

International Album of the Year

I Believe In You-Marilla Ness

International Artist/Group of the Year

Marilla Ness

Choral Collection of the Year

A. Hymns & Anthems - Colin Mawby & Andrew Wright

Spoken Word Recording of the Year

Enduring Love - A Rosary for Chastity - Kara Klein

Best Religious Television Presentation,DVD/Video Release and/or Movie Presentation for Catholic Evangelization of the Year

Bella - Directed by Alejandro Monteverde

Video/DVD Producer of the Year

Denise Pinckey, Eduardo Verastegun, Leo Severino, Alejandro Monteverde & Sean Wolfinton - Bella

Album Packaging of the Year

Surrender (2007 Remix) – Artist: Kitty Cleveland – Art Director: Dawn Cadard

Video/DVD Packaging of the Year

Kara Klein DVD Trilogy – Artist: Kara Klein – Art Director: Bernard J. Klein

Seasonal Song of the Year

What Child Is This-Trish Foti Genco

Seasonal Album of the Year

Light of the World-Angelina

You can watch a recorded version of the entire program at www.ustream.tv/channel/ucmva. More coverage will be coming in the week to come. Thanks to Dave Wang for producing the live show.

Unity Awards 2008 nominations

2008-10-23T10:31:00.000-04:00

NOTE: The Unity Awards (barring complications) will be broadcast on ustream.tv on Saturday, October 25 beginning at 7:00 pm CDT. Click here to view the show.

by Nick Alexander, TopCatholicSongs.com

Nick Alexander here...

The Unity Awards for 2008 are nearly upon us. These are the equivalents of a Grammy or a Dove Award. They are administered by the United Catholic Music and Video Association, and they will be having their awards ceremony this coming weekend.

The following represents all the nominees that have songs listed in iTunes. To have the full lists, you may need to go to http://www.ucmva.com and read all the nominees.

UCMVA Song of the Year

Ave Maria by Trish Foti Genco
I Surrender by Sharmane
Discover the Way by Nick Cardilino
Traces of Jesus by Dan Dúet
Away from Myself by Noelle Garcia
Holy Spirit, Come Now by Jesse Manibusan
Fare Thee Well (A Song of the Ascension) by Simonetta

UCMVA Devotional Song of the Year

Ave Maria by Trish Foti Genco
I Surrender by Sharmane
My Lord, My King by Brian Blum
I Thirst by Danielle Rose
All for Your Glory by Dan Schutte
Endless Is Your Love by Tom Kendzia
Be With Us Mary by Jenny Pixler

UCMVA Gospel Song of the Year

Jammin' for the Lord by John Grassadonia
I Lay Down My Burdens by Julius Collins & Gwen Matthews
On That Final Judgment Day by Robert Robinson
Honey from the Rock by Tom Kendzia
Shout Praise by Grayson Warren Brown
Wade In the Water by Frank Jansen & ValLimar Jansen
Christmas In New Orleans by Trish Foti Genco

UCMVA Liturgical/Sacramental Song of the Year

May the Road Rise to Meet You by Mel Kennedy
Adoro Te Devote by Voice Trek
Table of the World by Tony Alonso
Hail Mary by Simonetta

UCMVA Pop/Contemporary Song of the Year

Discover the Way by Nick Cardilino
You Gotta Walk the Walk by Julius Collins & Gwen Matthews
Faith, Hope, and Love by Paul Melley
Away from Myself by Noelle Garcia
Ain't Gotta Be Like That by Crystal Velazquez
Miles Away by Simonetta

UCMVA Praise & Worship Song of the Year

Spending Time Adoring You by Margo B. Smith
Lord of Lords by Robert Robinson
Washed In the Blood of the Lamb by Gwen Matthews
Rise, O People, Called to Worship by Brian Blum
If We Choose to Love by Margo B. Smith

UCMVA Rock/Modern Song of the Year

Body and Blood by Critical Mass
Be My Everything by Chris Padgett
Satisfied by Joel Stein

UCMVA Country Song of the Year

Traces of Jesus by Dan Dúet
My Portion, My Treasure by Brian Blum
Oh Papa by Simonetta
Isn't It Amazing? by Kurt and Julie Carrick

Results will be listed as soon as they are available.

Special program on Padre Pio to air on CatholicTV in honor of his memorial

2008-09-22T15:13:00.001-04:00

The memorial of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina is September 23rd.

In honor of the memorial CatholicTV will air Padre Pio: Man of God on Tuesday at 11:30am and at 10p.m, Saturday at 11:30am, and on Sunday at 6:30am. You can watch it right on the internet, live at www.catholictv.org.

In this incredible documentary film, Padre Pio tells his own story. The voice of the simple friar from Pietrelcina lives on through his own writings, recalling various moments from his remarkable life. Padre Pio is now known as Blessed Pio of Pietrelcina, as a result of his beatification on May 2nd,1999, by Pope John Paul II. A humble Capuchin priest from San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy, Padre Pio was blessed by God in many wonderful and mysterious ways. He was born to Giuseppa and Grazio Forgione, peasant farmers, in the small Italian village of Pietrelcina on May 25, 1887. From his childhood, it was evident that he was a true child of God.

The most dramatic sign of Padre Pio's special grace was the stigmata. Padre Pio bore the wounds of Jesus on his hands, feet, and side for fifty years. Several days before he died in 1968, all evidence of the wounds disappeared. In this film, Padre Pio describes how he first received the stigmata, and how he lived with it throughout his life. He speaks of himself as a confessor and spiritual guide, a man of prayer and a man of God. Other wonders have been granted to Padre Pio, including the gift of prophecy and the ability to effect miraculous cures.

Padre Pio: Man of God includes interviews with those who knew him best, including Oscar Luigi Scalfaro, Enzo Biagi, Renzo Arbore, and his fellow monks, Father Gerardo Di Flumeri, Father Paolo Cuvino, and Brother Modestino of Pietrelcina. The voice of Padre Pio is Christopher Jones.

Join us on CatholicTV to learn more about this beloved Saint.

Comcast 268 (183 in some areas)
Full Channel 117
RCN 85
Sky Angel 142
Verizon 296

© Copyright 2008 GrapeVine. Permission to copy or reprint this story must be obtained by writing to susan@gvonline.net. Used by permission.

Franciscan & Friends Caribbean Music Mission 2008

2008-09-17T13:03:00.000-04:00

Celebrating the Gospel in Song

by Denis Grady

“The Franciscan and Friends Mission effectively utilizes the universal language of music to build community, evangelize and minister not just to the poor but the broader human family, a smart Catholic initiative with good ecumenical participation.” Bishop FB Henry
Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary

“Feed the hungry and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as day.” Isaiah 58:10

The Franciscan and Friends Music Mission began in 2002 at World Youth Day in Toronto. The Franciscan Community of Toronto invited a group of musicians from North America, the Caribbean, Central America and Europe to participate in the celebrations during the visit of Pope John Paul II.

In 2005 the Roman Catholic Dioceses of Trinidad and Barbados invited the group to the Caribbean for a series of fundraising concerts and ministry visits to prisons, drug and alcohol rehabs, seniors’ homes, schools and impoverished neighborhoods.

The Caribbean Mission is now an annual event every October (The Feast Day of St. Francis is October 4) and has expanded to other islands including St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Lucia and Grenada.

The work has also expanded from music to manual labor in some of the Dioceses.

Franciscan & Friends Caribbean Music Mission 2008
Celebrating the Gospel in Song

Featuring
Jilasio Lokuawii/Sudan
Gospel Elvis/Canada
Brent Saklofske/Canada
Denis Grady/Canada
Cathy Goddard/Canada
Toons the Clown/Canada
Gretchen & Amy Harris/USA
Derek Fields/Barbados

Barbados
Sat. Oct. 4 St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Barbados
St. Vincent & the Grenadines
Tues. Oct. 7 Almond Tree Beach Concert, Bequia
Fri. Oct. 10 Heritage Square, Kingstown
Sat. Oct. 11/Sun. Oct. 12 St. Joseph’s Parish, Union Island

Grenada
Mon. Oct. 13 St. Peter & Paul Parish, Windward, Carriacou
Tues. Oct. 14, St. Patrick’s Parish Hillsborough,Carriacou
Fri. Oct. 18 Blessed Sacrament Parish, Grand Anse
Sat. Oct.19 St. Martin de Porres Parish, Crochu
Sun. Oct. 20 St. Andrew’s Parish, Grenville

www.franciscanandfriends.com

Feedback

“Your ministry has touched many lives. I hope that you can continue this ministry in the Caribbean as it is a blessing to our people.”
Archbishop Robert Rivas OP, Coadjutor Castries, St. Lucia

“Our sincere thanks for your selfless ministry. You have impacted our lives with a tremendous example of serving.”
Rosemary Scott, Living Water Community, Trinidad

“We are most grateful for your ministry. Our churches, schools and prison were spiritually refreshed by your ministry. We look forward to an annual celebration of fellowship in Christ.”
Yvonne Patterson, Cursillo Leader, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

“Your willingness to bring the Good News of the Gospel in song and your generous contribution of labour in the restoration of our churches has had a deep impact on our community. Grenada continues its recovery from the destruction of Hurricanes Ivan & Emily. We are hopeful of a long term relationship with you in Christ through your ministry.”
Bishop Vincent Darius OP, Diocese of Grenada

“We were very blessed by your ministry. I want to thank you for your generosity in coming and blessing us at your own expense. My prayers are with you and your work. May God bless you always.”
Fr. Clair Watrin, Blessed Sacrament Parish, St. Lucia

“As a delegate of the Mission and a recovering drug addict I had the most amazing experience of God using the rebellion of my past and my recent surrender to do His will in the most beautiful way, to encourage those still struggling with addictions in the prisons and rehabs we visited. I can’t say enough about the love I received from the Mission Team, my new brothers and sisters in Christ and the way God introduced himself to us in the eyes of the poor we encountered on each island.”
Adina E. Mustard Seed Street Ministry, Calgary

“As an Evangelical Christian I was deeply touched by the genuine unity I felt as a mission delegate on the Team. Our focus was completely on serving Christ in the poor. That is the theology of this ministry.”
Rob Laird, Intake Coordinator, Calgary Dream Centre

© Copyright 2008 GrapeVine. Permission to copy or reprint this story must be obtained by writing to susan@gvonline.net. Used by permission.

SpiritandSong Offers Free Downloads of Five Songs on Oct. 7

2008-09-11T11:38:00.000-04:00

PORTLAND, Ore.—Spiritandsong.com, the contemporary music division of OCP, announced a unique promotion called “5 For 5 For Free.” For a five-hour window, fans are being invited to download five songs from an exciting new musician for free. From 5 to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time) on October 7, a special web address—www.spiritandsong.com/5for5—will allow free downloads of five selected tracks from Jackie Francois’ upcoming album, Your Kingdom is Glorious. Listeners will be able to get the spiritandsong.com newcomer’s music nearly a full month before her CD is released for sale on Nov. 5.

“Offering five songs for five hours for free is a great way to introduce people to Jackie Francois,” says Robert Feduccia, general manager of spiritandsong.com. “She’s a powerful young minister and her music is already having an impact. I’m excited for new fans to discover what the spiritandsong.com family already knows—Jackie is a rare talent with absolute commitment to her faith.”

The five songs selected for the promotion are the following:
• Be Forgiven
• Blessed Are You Lord
• For So Long
• The Power of Your Love
• Your Kindgom Is Glorious

“I think it’s a great idea for people to get to hear some of my music without having to buy the whole CD,” says Francois. “I’m happy about the variety demonstrated in the songs selected for this promotion. I had a very diverse musical background growing up and I think these songs reflect that. My hope is that people will be touched by this music and that it speaks to them wherever they are in their spiritual journey.”

For interview or photo requests, contact Ben Peterson at benp@ocp.org or 503-460-5363. For more information on the “5 For 5 For Free” promotion, Jackie Francois and the other contemporary music from spiritandsong.com, visit www.spiritandsong.com.

© Copyright 2008 GrapeVine. Permission to copy or reprint this story must be obtained by writing to susan@gvonline.net. Used by permission.

Nick Cardilino and David Smithpublish song with OCP

2008-09-09T07:59:00.001-04:00

Cardilino to appear in video

Nick Cardilino is ready to be the latest singer-songwriter to be published at spiritandsong.com/OCP and to appear on an episode of The Commons. Cardilino joined Tom Booth, Jesse Manibusan, Sarah Hart, Curtis Stephan, Ken Canedo, Chris Padgett, and Jackie Francois in Mesa, AZ for filming of six months worth of The Commons episodes that will go live at www.spiritandsong.com between December '08 and May '09. "Discover the Way," the theme song for the 2007 National Catholic Youth Conference, which Cardilino wrote with David C. Smith, is the song featured in this episode scheduled to go up on the site some time during the Easter season. This is Cardilino and Smith's first song to be published by OCP.

Fr. Pablo Straub Records Historic CD on His Jubilee

2008-09-09T07:55:00.001-04:00

First CD to join EWTN personality with the music of St. Alphonsus Liguori

DENVER...September 2, 2008...Fr. Pablo Straub, Redemptorist missionary and EWTN personality, celebrates his 50^th year in the priesthood with a very special recording.

Praying the Seven Sorrows of Mary with St. Alphonsus Maria Liguori is the first CD to join Fr. Pablo with the music of his founding father, St. Alphonsus Liguori, the great 18^th century Italian saint, founder of the Redemptorists and a doctor of the church. It is also the first CD to feature Fr. Pablo together with his Redemptorist brothers and sisters, the Redemptoristines, on the same recording.

The Seven Sorrows project is the second CD produced and arranged by Ray and Theresa Herrmann and Little Lamb Music (www.littlelambmusic.com) partnering with the Denver Province Redemptorists. In December of last year, the province released Praying the Rosary with St. Alphonsus Maria Liguori. These are the first two CDs produced in the U.S. to feature the music of St. Alphonsus Liguori. The saint's music is performed and sung on both productions by the Herrmanns and members of the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the Los Angeles Master Chorale.

Ray Herrmann (www.rayherrmann.com), a world-class saxophonist, is a Grammy-award winner with 20 years of experience playing with and arranging music for some of the biggest names in American music: LeAnn Rimes, Chicago, Whitney Houston, Christine Aguilera, Bob Dylan, Santana, Herbie Hancock, and George Benson.

Susan Bailey, editor and publisher of Grapevine Magazine, said of the Rosary CD, "This is a truly beautiful and reverent rosary recording; it's absolutely exquisite....it's one of the finest recorded rosaries available." The National Catholic Register wrote recently that "Ray Herrmann and the Redemptorists have combined to produce a Rosary CD of rare spiritual depth and musical sophistication."

With the music of St. Alphonsus playing in the background, Fr. Pablo reads the prayers and meditations written by St. Alphonsus for this Marian devotion, which are meant "to help us show gratitude and demonstrate sympathy for what our Blessed Mother endured in each of these Seven Sorrows":

1. The Prophecy of St. Simeon

2. The Flight of Jesus into Egypt

3. The Loss of Jesus in the Temple

4. The Meeting of Mary with Jesus on the Way of the Cross

5. The Death of Jesus

6. The Piercing of the Side of Jesus, and His Descent from the Cross

7. The Burial of the Body of Jesus

The tracks include:

1. Mary, Queen of Martyrs: An Introduction

2. Song: Aspirations to Maria

3. Miraculous Examples of the Seven Sorrows of Mary (1 thru 4)

4. Miraculous Examples of the Seven Sorrows of Mary (5 thru 7)

5. Song: The Passion of Jesus Christ

6. The Little Rosary of the Seven Sorrows of Mary

7. Homily by Father Pablo Straub, C.Ss.R.

Excerpts from both CDs can be heard on the Little Lamb Music and Redemptorist websites (www.littlelambmusic.com www.redemptorists-denver.org).

Proceeds support the work of our Redemptorist missionaries in the Amazon rain forest of Brazil and the slums of Lagos and Ibadan, Nigeria.

To order the CDs, call Little Lamb Music at 1-800-231-1207 or order online at www.littlelambmusic.com

Contacts:

Bruce Crane
Redemptorists/Denver Province
303-565-5438
bcrane@redemptorists-denver.org

Mary O'Brien
Fr. Pablo Straub, C.Ss.R.
Mission Helpers of the Holy Saviour
P.O. Box 6035
Las Cruces, New Mexico 88006
575-522-1406
marye.obrien@yahoo.com

Ray & Theresa Herrmann
Little Lamb Music
800-231-1207
www.littlelambmusic.com

Lots of new CD and book reviews just posted!

2008-08-13T16:02:00.001-04:00

Matt Maher, Amanda Vernon, book review by Lisa Hendey, so much more - check out www.gvonline.net. More to come later this week - stay tuned . . .

Meet "The Priests"

2008-07-21T13:21:00.000-04:00

Debut Album, Produced by Mike Hedges, is coming November 18th on RCA Victor Gifted Trio of Ordained Clergymen Won't Give Up Their Day Jobs in Catholic Parishes of Ireland

NEW YORK - A vocal trio of three Roman Catholic priests from Ireland is on the brink of creating an international musical sensation as The Priests.

In an April ceremony on the steps of London's historic Westminster Cathedral, the group - comprised of two brothers, Father Eugene O' Hagan and Father Martin O' Hagan, and Father David Delargy - was signed by Sony BMG (UK). Their Priests' debut album is set for US release on RCA Victor Records on November 18, 2008.

The Priests commenced recording May 23 in Dublin and will continue in Belfast and The Vatican in Rome. Their album will include performances in Latin, Spanish, German, Italian, and English of such enduring classics of faith as "Ave Maria," "Panis Angelicus," "Abide With Me," and "O Holy Night." The Priests are working with legendary producer Mike Hedges, well known for his work with U2, The Cure, and - in a foreshadowing of his current assignment - the Manic Street Preachers. The Priests will be accompanied by the Vatican Choir on the recording, arranged and conducted by Pablo Colino the Emeritus Director of Music at St.Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, Rome. A major television special is in the works, as well as an international launch event scheduled for September at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Northern Ireland.

The extraordinary combined talents of Father Eugene O' Hagan (48), his brother, Father Martin O' Hagan (45), and Father David Delargy (44) first were recognized while they attended Queen's University in Belfast and while training for the priesthood at the Irish College in Rome. During the latter period, the three singers were invited personally by the Papal Master of Ceremonies, Monsignor Magee, to sing for the Pope in the sacred liturgy.

Upon their return to Ireland, each of the Priests will continue to tend to the spiritual needs of his parishioners and to the official duties of his church. The Priests' global recording contract exempts each member from undertaking any promotional or recording duties in the event, for instance, of officiating at a wedding or christening of a parishioner. Additionally, the trio has stipulated that a percentage of the proceeds from their record sales will be donated to a charity of their choice.

"We have been inundated with good wishes from our brother priests, from parishioners, and from many friends in the music world," reports Father Eugene O' Hagan in a blog entry at www.thepriests.com.

"It was our intention to make a record for posterity. But imagine what we felt like when Sony BMG popped up out of nowhere and expressed an interest. Fantastic-unbelievable!"

For further information, contact:
Sarah Weinstein Dennison
RCA Music Group Publicity
(646) 840-5672
Sarah.Weinstein@sonybmg.com

Visit our artist video blog to see a sample video of The Priests, courtesy of YouTube.

Watch the promotional video at http://de.click2music.co.uk/digitalservices/the-priests/the-priests-uk-sml.mov

Watch for an article on The Priests in Time Magazine.

Pope sending text messages to WYD Pilgrims

2008-07-16T09:40:00.000-04:00

Ed Murray, Executive VP - Special Projects for Faith & Values Media comments on the Pope’s use of texting technology to communicate with WYD pilgrims.

1. What are the implications of such a change in Papal approach?

We may be tempted to assume that Pope Benedict XVI is wandering into territory which is foreign to him – where he might “stumble.” I doubt that. While it is almost unheard of that the Pope would communicate in a forum where full expression of thought might be impossible, it is also true that popes in this age must speak through all possible means of communication.

2. What are the implications of text messaging? Has the medium itself created its own “message.” Is the Pope implying that now he wishes to become their friend? Does the technology imply that. Or is he a kind of a parent in this environment?

It is true that text messaging is its own “environment”. It is not immune to the now age-old dictum: the medium is the message. The use of IMs, especially by people between 14 and 25, has shaped a language and a whole set of expectations and accepted practices. For example, text messaging must be, by its nature, brief. In the hands of kids, it’s commonly abrupt, even curt. It is likely true that, for many young people, a text message “on my phone” constitutes a message coming onto “my space.” It can be assumed that the use of IM’s by parents to monitor their kids is not looked on with great delight by young people. How will young people feel when they get an IM from the Holy Father? What will it say. Will he tell them what he’s doing today? Will he seek a response from them? Will someone respond. I think he (or his people) will have though-out all of these things and will do their best to “respect” the medium and use it well.

3. In his desire to “get closer to young people” will he actually be invading their space?

This is actually a new form of “missionary work.” He’s going “abroad” into the ether to meet with people who are, at the very best, new to his teachings – though likely filled with enthusiasm. As long as he respects the medium, its strengths and limitations, he’s likely to be very enthusiastically received. A real coup would be if Pope Benedict can actually find a way to have fun doing it. Wouldn’t that be great!

Special Summer Feature Provides Music and Social Justice Offerings for Catholic Teens

2008-07-10T11:02:00.000-04:00

NEW YORK - Disciples Now (http://disciplesnow.faithstreams.com), an online resource for Catholic teens, has launched a special summer feature called Songs in the Key of Justice, a music and social action microsite. It focuses on issues of advocacy, social justice and the many volunteer service opportunities that are available for young people.

In addition to both original editorial content and partner contributed content on key issues in social advocacy, Songs in the Key of Justice offers free weekly song downloads of well known Catholic pop and rock bands whose music embodies the spirit of social justice and features artists such as Ceili Rain, Last Day, John Angotti and the Christian band Poor Rich Folk. These songs can be accessed simply by registering for the site. Users can also upload videos of their summer service projects, share photos and talk with others in an online forum.

Songs in the Key of Justice also offers visitors free wallpaper, AIM and MSN instant message icons as well a badge for their blogs, MySpace page or personal Web site. Songs in the Key of Justice merchandise (such as T-shits, mugs, etc.) can also be purchased.

"Disciples Now.com has been a place that thousands of Catholic teens, youth ministers, teachers, and parents have come to rely on as a dependable resource for Catholic teachings and how those apply to the daily life of young people," said Sherry Raspa, co-founder and producer of Disciples Now. "In this tradition of Disciples Now, the site presents Songs in the Key of Justice as a destination where teens can find both important information about social justice and download music from their favorite Catholic music artists who practice what they preach. Songs in the Key of Justice shows that social activism this summer can be both rewarding and fun."

About Disciples Now Ministries
Disciples Now Ministries, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization which provides a web-based ministry for Catholic youth focused on the traditions, life and mission of the Catholic faith community. Leadership for Disciples Now Ministries is provided by an independent Board of Directors. The organization is closely affiliated with the Archdiocese of Baltimore Division of Youth and Young Adult Ministry which provides oversight of the catechetical content.

Disciples Now Ministries was formed by a group of youth ministry and faith formation professionals in Baltimore, Maryland in July 1999. DisciplesNow.com debuted at the National Catholic Youth Conference in November of that year. For eight years, a dedicated group of volunteers and staff provided editorial, catechetical, and operational resources for the website. These individuals had significant experience in Catholic youth ministry, many of them serving as professional staff in parishes, schools, and diocesan chanceries. In 2008, DisciplesNow.com joined the FaithStreams Network which provides ministerial, editorial, technological, and promotional support through a team of professional staff, consultants, and volunteers. http://disciplesnow.faithstreams.com

Contact:
Scott Rosenblum / Jared Kreiner
Trylon SMR
212/725-2295
Scott@trylonsmr.com / Jared@trylonsmr.com

Free song offered by Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity for WYD pilgrims

2008-07-06T18:09:00.000-04:00

The Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity are offering a free download
of a song for young Catholics traveling to World Youth Day at their website

“Come Holy Ghost/Enkindle”, performed by Kataluma, re-imagines the traditional hymn, correlating with the Pentecost theme of World Youth Day 2008. It’s both a benediction for youth traveling to Sydney, as well as a way for those who can’t attend to take a ‘multicultural musical journey’.

“Come Holy Ghost/Enkindle” begins with a ’summons’ to Sydney, played on an Aborigine Didgeridoo. Just as Catholic youth from around the world will bring their own culture and gifts to Sydney, it incorporates different rhythms, from Catalonian to Congolese, and instruments from around the world. Some include an accordion from Germany, electric guitar and dulcimer from the United States, kalimba from Angola, a saz, or lute from Greece, shaker from Peru, rain stick from Guatemala, harp from Ireland, trumpet from Mexico.

In deference to Pope Benedict XVI’s favorite composer, it even includes a brief passage from Mozart’s ‘Rondo Alla Turca’. Also, there’s a bit of Gregorian Chant.

In Mark’s Gospel, the Greek word Kataluma designates a “Dining Room” where the Last Supper takes place (and, some suggest, the same room where Pentecost occurred). More commonly, it describes the ‘breaking up or reprieve of a journey’. In this instance Kataluma designates the occasional coalescence of Milwaukee area musicians and creatives: John Tanner, Sue Bruk, Bob Monagle and Mark Kolter, who fashioned the transglobal approach to the hymn “Come Holy Ghost/Enkindle”

Mr. Tanner is an experienced studio musician and highly regarded composer, with over twenty years of experience in scoring, arranging and music composition for television, radio, and theatre. He engineered the Violent Femmes’ album, “Violent Femmes”, which garnered both Gold and Platinum sales certification. His commercial music has won numerous awards, including Golden Reel Awards from the International Television Association for industrial video projects Find out more at http://www.tannermonagle.com.

Ms. Bruk’s exceptional singing can be heard in many different commercials and productions, and she also writes music for and sings with the Christian group, “Sacrifice of Praise”. http://www.sacrificeofpraiseonline.com. “Sacrifice of Praise” is known for tight harmonies, spirits that encourage and personal testimonies ofGod’s faithfulness. Their latest CD, You Carry Me celebrates and reflects on God’s unfailing faithfulness in the times of life’s greatest
uncertainties.

Mr. Monagle plays guitar because he can.

Mr. Kolter is a songwriter and creative counsel. “I thought those traveling to Catholic World Youth Day, and those who wanted to go but couldn’t, might appreciate, enjoy a song that was uplifting, and also incorporated instrumentations and rhythms from around the world. ‘Come Holy Ghost’ seemed appropriate since the theme correlated with the ‘Holy Spirit’ theme of World Youth Day 2008.

‘Enkindle’ evolved from another instrumental ‘Tangiers Lantern Twilight’ that evoked a geographic journey into the spiritual journey on traveling to WYD. Now it’s sort of fused together with ‘Come Holy Ghost’, less a medley, more a musical marriage.”

Sister Mary Carol, OSF, of the Franciscan Sisters Music Conservatory commented “How many people today hear or sing the hymn, “Come, Holy Ghost?” Although this is the title, the actual words are first heard about 2 and 1/2 minutes into the recording. The melody to the 19th century hymn is heard in bits throughout the piece.”

“Multiple listening to the song reveal a more complex composition than first expected. Our daily lives are also complicated...However, as theminutes and hours unfold, changes occur that lead to a profound belief in the Spirit who leads us through the ups and downs of each moment. “

Established in 1869, the Roman Catholic Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity serve in Catholic health care, education and parish ministries in 13 U.S. dioceses (Green Bay, Superior, Milwaukee, Phoenix, Tucson, Honolulu, Chicago, Marquette, Jackson, Lincoln, Omaha, Columbus and Steubenville).

www.fscc-calledtobe.org
© Copyright 2008 GrapeVine. Permission to copy or reprint this story must be obtained by writing to susan@gvonline.net. Used by permission.

Music festival to benefit Boys Hope Girls Hope

2008-06-25T16:14:00.000-04:00

By Ann Espinola

It started with a music teacher who wanted to give his students a stage to showcase their talents.

It blossomed into the Celebration for Hope, a benefit music festival set 4 p.m.-9 p.m. June 28 at the Crescent Pavilion in Greenwood Village. Headliners include local faith-filled artists Aubrey Quintero, Joia Farmer, Phil Jensen, Grace Ellen and JSMiley.

All of the proceeds—organizers suggest a $10 donation—will benefit Boys Hope Girls Hope of Colorado, which helps academically motivated children from troubled families. Boys live in a family-style home near Regis Jesuit High School, where many of them are students. Plans are underway to build a home for girls.
Some of the concert performers are prodigies of David Judge, a piano and guitar teacher from Englewood and musician of Church of the Risen Christ. They are featured in the first half of the festival titled “New Talent Showcase.”

“I wanted my students to show what they’ve learned,” said Judge, who developed the idea for the music festival a few months ago. “I also wanted to raise funds for a local charity with a face so that people could feel like they were making a difference.”

One of those faces belongs to Justin Merow.

Merow, who performs on stage as JSMiley, lived for six years at Boys Hope. Today, he is a 24-year-old Metropolitan State College of Denver student and a self-described “positive rap artist” who performs at coffee houses, churches and various community events around the metro area. On June 28, he’ll take the stage at the music festival.

Merow’s own story began with chaos and despair. He spent most of his early years without a father. He, his mother, two brothers and sister moved from one rental home to the next and often lived in hotels on East Colfax Avenue. They survived on food stamps, the kindness of strangers and their bond to each other.
Merow’s life took a dramatic turn at age 11 when he, along with one of his brothers, was accepted into the Boys Hope program, which paid his tuition to attend Most Precious Blood Catholic School and later Regis. He studied hard, made friends and dreamed about a successful life for himself and his family.

He stayed at Boys Hope for six years. But when he was a junior at Regis, he chose to leave the program.

“I wanted to be home with my family,” Merow said. “I thought I could leave and still do my homework two hours a night. I was 17 and I thought, ‘I can do this by myself. I can get a college scholarship by myself. I can create a good lifestyle by myself.’…I was naïve.”

He managed to graduate from Northglenn High School, but he didn’t manage to stay out of trouble.

“Everybody was lackadaisical with morals. I felt I couldn’t follow what was right when nobody else was,” Merow said. Drugs, drinking, sex, “there wasn’t much I didn’t do.”

One night, about a year after leaving Boys Hope, Merow was driving drunk near Havana Street and Alameda Avenue in Aurora when he careened into an auto dealership, hitting six other cars and causing a light post to crush the roof of the vehicle he was driving.

Three weeks later, he woke up in Spalding Rehabilitation Hospital in Aurora. He had suffered a serious brain injury and had to learn again how walk, talk, write and go to the bathroom.

Along with his physical recovery came spiritual renewal.

“I was very thankful to be alive,” Merow said. “I felt God had saved me and from that point on, I wasn’t living for myself anymore.”

He swore off his old ways and adhered to the court penalties from his drunken driving conviction. He took Mothers against Drunken Driving courses, paid fines to the auto dealership and did 48 hours community service at a dog pound, feeding and bathing the animals and cleaning their cages.

He studied the Bible and took a college entrance exam, which he passed. He also worked. Three years ago, he became a part-time residency counselor at Boys Hope. He cooked meals for the boys, made their doctor appointments, packed their lunches and helped them study.

“I provided the stability the kids needed,” Merow said, “the same stability I got when I was at Boys Hope.” Though he strayed after leaving Boys Hope in high school, the program provided him a solid moral foundation he could draw on later.

This past March, Justin quit working at Boys Hope to concentrate on his studies at Metro. He’s also focused on a company he created called Mile High Divine, which promotes artists and musicians who have a positive message.

On June 28 at the music festival, Justin will share his rap lyrics and a poem he wrote called “Love Is.” When he looks out from the stage, he hopes to see many children from Boys Hope Girls Hope.

“It’s about these kids now,” Merow said. “It’s about them seeing me and saying, ‘He went here and now look at him.’”

Headliners include, Aubrey Quintero, a local artist who just released her debut CD “Redeemed”. She is described by her fans as “filled with joy that is contagious,” and “delightful” and “amazing.” Joia Farmer is a nationally known artist who resides in Highlands Ranch. She has released two CDs and performs at retreats, benefits, and concerts around the country. Grace Ellen, a graduate of Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio, lives in Denver. She writes music and plays her guitar as often as she can between spending time with her family and working full-time. These above mentioned Catholic artists are parishioners/musicians of Church of the Risen Christ. In addition to the headliners and Merow, the concert will feature a dance performance by students from the Academy of Theater Arts and music by Phil Jensen. Jensen’s tender, romantic lyrics coupled with a blend of rock, jazz and country is attracting the attention of a broad audience.

Jensen, who lives in Denver, has been teaching guitar, writing songs, recording and producing for the past eight years. He recorded his first CD in 2001 titled “Point the Way” and is currently working on another CD.

Also, emceeing the festival will be Chris Stefanick, director of Youth, Young Adults and Camputs Ministry for the Denver Archdiocese, with DJ of The Light 560AM, Rachel Mains.

The festival, sponsored by Citywide Banks, WayFM 89.7, The Light 560AM, Mercury LDO Reprographics, and Rocky Mountain Popcorn, will be held from 4 to 9 p.m. at the Crescent Pavilion, 8390 E. Crescent Parkway. Audience members are free to bring picnic dinners. Other food items will be available for purchase. There will also be entertainment for small children. All proceeds to benefit the Boys Hope Girls Hope of Colorado.

Update: Thanks to everyone's support the organizers were able to raise close to $6,000 for Boy's Hope/Girl's Hope of Colorado, while highlighting several Catholic artists. Through this event, Joia Farmer, Aubrey Quintero and Grace Ellen (all performing at the event) were able to be introduced to Rachel Mains, a DJ for a local Christian station in Denver. (560 the Light) All 3 will be separately interviewed and featured on her program. Mike Ofca and Dan Bozek both of whom traveled all the way from Steubanville, Ohio also participated in this event. Plans are already in the works for an event next year.
© Copyright 2008 GrapeVine. Permission to copy or reprint this story must be obtained by writing to susan@gvonline.net. Used by permission.

Matt Maher in top ten on Christian charts

2008-06-15T11:47:00.000-04:00

As reported by Aly Bleistine of ALBIE Entertaintment:
Matt Maher has a hit song in "Your Grace is Enough,' which is currently #7 on the Billboard Christian Chart. This is the highest any Catholic artist has even gotten on a national chart (except for John Michael Talbot back in the early days). In order for this song to crack the top 5, Maher will have to compete against Third Day (which has a new tune at #1) and Casting Crown, up there with a new tune as well.
"Your Grace is Enough" was also recently added to the KLOVE playlist (currently #16 on their Top 20 Countdown). Airplay on 200+ stations nationwide can really blow things open for him.
Matt Maher is certainly blazing the trail open for other Catholic artists. Keep him in your prayers.
© Copyright 2008 GrapeVine. Permission to copy or reprint this story must be obtained by writing to susan@gvonline.net. Used by permission.