DOXA

While attending a Sovereign Grace Music conference in July there was a group from Philadelphia representing Epiphany Fellowship leading worship. When we pulled up the parking area, upon hearing the beating of the drums and realized that something was different going on inside. My drummer and I yelled simultaneously "that's a black drummer", we scurried from the parking lot into the main corridors vibing to the music and soon relaized that this morning worship leaders were of African American decent. Hearing gospel, jazz, neo-soul, R&B and CCM sparked our attention from the back of the auditorium. I've attended this conference for more than five years and never have we had the opportunity witness other cultures share their theological informed musical styles. Oh was this pleasant to my ears upon hearing songs of the Lamb being expressed in the feel I'm so passionate about. I'm glad that Bob Kauflin encourages others with similar background and experiences to share in their love for the gospel thru song. If only Sovereign Grace Music writers and producers would provide a variety of music styles, there would be a flood gate of musicians pulling from their library. The worship this morning was energetic craftily arranged, beaming horn section and most of all filled with biblical truth. Pointing our affections towards Christ "You Alone" an original song and "Hosanna" a familiar tune to many prepared those of us in attendance for the preach word. This worship team had me wanting to pay them a visit to see how all this is done in their community. So many urban centered churches today are missing the core of the gospel in their music of worship selection. Instead it is filled with many commercial based songs that just uplifts the individual instead of Christ. I knew at this point I must meet this group. Later that evening I had the privileged of meeting Aaron Johnson and his team DOXA off site and fellowship with them. Hearing the struggles of musical interpretation between cultures and listing our frustrations in being misunderstood theoretically, the battles between guitar chords vs piano chords and hearing pitch sounds were all part of our discussion. Aaron also shared the history and vision of DOXA and it's been encouraging to hear his testimony, his passion for serving the church and a love for Christ. There is no doubt in my mind that this would not be our last time meeting. I purchased their album, Centerd, love all of its arrangements and noted that this music will cross over well with those in the gospel music industry. Thanks to Pastor Eric Mason for encouraging his worship team in their efforts to point people to Christ. Check out their music on iTunes or Amazon. If ever in the Philadelphia area check out the Epiphany Fellowship, I know you would be encouraged in your worship and the hearing of the word.