Dear All

We're writing during our final few days of a wonderful summer spent in Ireland! We've had a great time with friends and family and also completed our newest album, “Joy--An Irish Christmas.” Look for it on our website in September and in stores this October!

Additionally, during the past year we’ve focused on sharing resources with worship leaders. This month, we’re excited to share with you two inspiring articles that have shaped our thinking this year.

The first article, which initially appeared years ago in The Life (a publication of Creative Trust) is written by our old friend and internationally renowned composer J.A.C. Redford. In his moving piece, Redford states the need for a Christian renaissance to occur in all areas of the arts and asks readers to consider, “Where is the sort of art that will capture the imagination of the movers and shapers of our world?”

Redford worked with us this summer on the orchestral and choral parts of our Christmas album. His music and his writings never cease to stir us toward our very best. We hope his article will do the same for you.

Also, take a moment to read Mike Cosper’s excellent piece on Isaac Watts. Cosper, pastor of worship and arts at Sojourn Community Church in Louisville, Ky., gives us a wonderful glimpse into Watts’ far-reaching influence on the hymns we sing. Cosper’s own church now has recorded two albums of Watts’ hymns, demonstrating its desire for congregations to hear Scripture “with fresh ears, vivid poetry, and deep passion.”

We hope these resources serve as inspiration, encouragement and direction for you as you begin another year as worship leaders and as people who shepherd and encourage those involved in the music of your church.

With grace and peace,

p.s. We've also included photos of the Irish Christmas album recordings and links to more on Facebook!