I can remember singing solos in church and at “Christian” * events from when I was about 12 years old, (it’s what happened back then - the church minister/event organiser would ask if you would “minister in song” at their event or in the service, though maybe not usually at that early an age).  Even then, I remember that I wanted to do more than entertain people through my singing - I wanted to impart something that would encourage people in their faith walk

 

I also sang in the school chapel choir, studied violin and played in the County youth orchestra, so had plenty of classical training, which I regard as incredibly valuable in complementing the work I do now

 

[ *In quotes because maybe, (as Rob Bell wisely points out), we shouldn’t really use the word Christian as an adjective :)  ]

 

Back in 1979, having left my job as an Insurance Claims Correspondent, I joined the mission team Good News Crusade, working with Don Double as a solo artist and also with The Reapers band.  It’s great to still meet people now who refer back to those days as a time when our ministry impacted them in some way

 

During this time I also began travelling to Eastern Europe, developing relationships there that continue to this day.  Regular tours of student clubs throughout the University towns of Poland were particularly fruitful, working with ChSA, the Polish branch of IFES.  A recent trip to Serbia saw the Peace in our Time song “coming home” to people whose circumstances had influenced the thoughts behind the song

 

Having moved to West Sussex for a spell on the staff at CFNuk Bible School, my wife and I now very much enjoy being part of Arun Community Church (until recently also home to Delirious?), where I regularly lead worship.  I’m so thankful for this base of friends from where I can work out and still be available for the various aspects of ministry/music work in which I’m privileged to be involved