NEW "tRAD" SERIES - "AGNUS DEI"

The new tRAD series (tRAD = radical traditional) is designed to fill a gap in the simpler, more traditional domains of church worship.

Statistics compiled from CCLI church reports show a significant demand for such songs. Many of them are from British writers and a significant feature, apart from the difference in style, is the very solid content of the words. The Stuart Townend songs stand out in this respect. This writer has a tremendous grasp of the work of the cross together with a superb ability to express his thoughts in words.

"My lover's breath is sweetest wine
I am his prize and he is mine
How can a sinner know such joy?
Because of Jesus.
The wounds of love are in his hands,
The price is paid for sinful man,
Accepted child, forgiven son
Because of Jesus."

(Verse 2, "The King of Love", Stuart Townend and Kevin Jamieson Ó 1997 Kingsway Thankyou Music, Adm. in Australia by the Nightlight Music Group)

The title song "Agnus Dei" by Michael W. Smith should appeal across the board and for this reason has also been included in our latest contemporary release "Above All".

This song is unusual in that it was written in 1990 but, as far as church worship is concerned, has lain dormant for most of this time gaining popularity only in the last year or so. The reason could be that the song gives the impression of being difficult, but it is in fact, fairly simple and well worth learning.

We attended a worship conference of about 2000 people in the USA last year and this was the "special" song.

The conference leader was LaMar Boschman and on one of the nights he spoke on worship in Revelation, followed immediately by a black female soloist who sang this song. Her voice was absolute glory and as she sang dancers moved into the auditorium, led by a young girl holding aloft a velvet cushion on which was a crown. It was such a simple gesture but it drew every eye in the auditorium. Then the congregation joined in and sang the song - over and over again. Many people were moved to tears. Everyone wished it would never stop. It was probably the most powerful and moving worship time we had ever experienced.

The song is not limited to congregations; smaller groups have enjoyed it too. It just needs good preparation and rehearsal.

To order click here.

Dennis Prince