A wonderful new resource for worship and peacemaking is being made available by the National Council of Churches in Australia. Entitled ‘Whispers of Peace’, it is a compilation of songs from a wide variety of Christians across the country, reflecting the diversity and vitality of Christian life in Australia and the shared Christian commitment to peace and reconciliation in the churches’ Decade to Overcome Violence. Containing the full sheet music, words and OHP slides for each of the 25 songs, and with contributions ranging from Hillsong to traditional hymn-style, at just $34.95 this enhanced double CD offers great value for churches and individuals. Leading Christian musicians such as Kevin Bates, Monica Brown, John Coleman and Robin Mann have contributed songs from their own repertoire, with nine songs recorded from their composers resources and the remaining sixteen professionally recorded and mixed in South Australia, under the direction of Robin Mann, and with production of the CD by Monique Lisbon, herself a lively contributor, through her company mono unlimited in Victoria .
‘Opening the heart to compassion is a central key to peacemaking and reconciliation’ says Jon Inkpin, national coordinator for this DOV (Decade to Overcome Violence) in Australia project, ‘and music is vital to this task, celebrating the gift and goal of peace in our lives and world. These songs reflect something of the chief concerns of peacemaking in our nation today: from the need to address personal and community violence, to issues of Indigenous Reconciliation, care for refugees, international conflict and environmental responsibility. In each of these the life of prayer and worship is crucial, centring us in the source of all peace and compassion and empowering us to love and action. No mere whispers in the storm, as we listen, sing and employ these voices of hope, so may the Prince of Peace bless us, and heal the divisions of our times.’
Whispers of Peace will be officially launched by DOV patron Prof.Lowijta O’Donoghue at the NCCA National Forum in Adelaide on 11 July, after which it is hoped that the songs will be widely used by congregations, groups and individuals for many years to come. Copies of the CD are available from the NCCA (02 9299 2215) and state ecumenical bodies amongst other outlets.
For further information:
Contact the Revd Dr Jon Inkpin at the NCCA Tel: (02) 9299 2215 or 0410 583013
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and/or Vikki Waller at the South Australian Council of Churches
Tel: (08) 8221 6633 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Decade to Overcome Violence webpages: http://www.ncca.org.au/dov
Mono unlimited website: http://www.monounlimited.com
