Thursday, December 18, 2008

The W in Christmas...

Christmas has become a time of gift giving, parties and out of town travel. However, let's never forget the true meaning of this season. It's" joy to the world, the Lord is come" and without His coming we would be lost in a dying world. Of course, there are those who become very charitable. And, there are heart warming stories of people reaching out to those in need, paying bills, offering jobs and providing Christmas dinners and trees. Brotherhood will continue to do our part to share the Good News, not only at Christmas time, but the whole year through!

We are a blessed people and a blessed nation. Let's remember the "W" in Christmas. What's that you say...well here's the story in a nut shell. A school's Christmas presentation showcased a kindergarten class singing "Christmas Love". Each student held a letter spelling the song's title. As they sang each phrase, a child would hold up a letter (i.e. C is for Christmas). The performance was going smoothly, until suddenly, a small, quiet girl held the letter "M" upside down. It appeared as a "W" and the small audience snickered. The laughter continued until the last letter was raised. Suddenly, a hush came over the audience and eyes began to widen.

In that instant, everyone understood the reason they were there, why we celebrated the holiday in the first place and, why in the chaos, there was a purpose for our festivities. For, when the last letter was held high, the message read loud and clear:

"CHRISTWASLOVE"

And, I believe, He still is. We should be amazed in His presence... humbled by His love!!

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

A wow night at Calvary Towers (10/23)

It was our first visit to Calvary Towers. They've wanted Brotherhood to sing for a while but could not set a date. Well, the wait was worth it, Praise God! What a time of praise and worship we had as we ministered in song and Word.

A sprinkling of new music along with a heapful of old favorite hymns and choruses was warmly received. Each member of Brotherhood shared from their heart. The people raised their hands to heaven as we sang "Learning To Lean", "In The Cross" and "Because He Lives". On the lively numbers, they clapped and joined in singing "When We All Get To Heaven", "Goodbye World, Goodbye" and "I'll Fly Away" (they knew the words, of course!).

After a brief message, Brotherhood concluded with gospel classics, "How Great Thou Art" and "There's A Sweet, Sweet Spirit". At the altar call, many asked for salvation and a healing touch in their body. And, those moments made it the grandest finale of all. Our efforts are not in vain, but through prayer and dedication, we give glory and honor to Jesus Christ.

Yes... the wait was truly worth it!! Amen!!

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Gospel Nite with Lillie Knauls (10/20)

A popular phrase, "A good time was had by all" truly sums up the evening! Lots of fun, laughter, sharing, congregational hymn singing, quartet and soulful gospel music. Linda Nuzum shared a solo from her CD and Brotherhood sang a few songs between Lillie's sets including an uptempo "Nothing But The Blood".

Even as a "senior lady", Ms. Lillie Knauls still looks and sounds great - a broad smiling face and full of the joy of the Lord! Throughout the night, she encouraged the congregation to join in singing such favorites as "He's Got The Whole World In His Hands", "His Eye Is On The Sparrow" and her signature song, "O Happy Day". Currently known as part of Gaither's Homecoming group, Lillie was also a member of the Edwin Hawkins Singers who made that last song a mainstream hit in 1969.

Brotherhood was priviledged to join Ms. Knauls singing "Walkin' On Dry Land", a song she penned awhile back but with a country twist. It's included on her current album which won a Dove Award. If you get the chance, don't miss out seeing Lillie Knauls in concert. You will be thrilled and blessed... we sure were! If all goes well, concert photos will follow.

"Live In Lakeland" CD now available

On October 16, 2008, the dream became a reality for Brotherhood. Unknown to us all, our August concert at Victory Assembly in Lakeland, FL was videotaped. Brotherhood was given a copy and, thanks to advanced technology, a masterful CD was created. First, and foremost, we want to thank God Almighty for His faithfulness and providing this opportunity to advance His kingdom through music. God is good... all the time! Also, a special thanks to Vaughn Rhea (an accomplished musician, song writer and sound technician) who helped greatly in the production.

This CD includes a dozen wonderful, well-known gospel songs - old and new. There's also an added bonus - a track where Dan shares his heart with us from the word of God. All proceeds received go back to support Brotherhoods' outreach ministry.

Friday, September 19, 2008

Fall '08 Sets In

It's been awhile since our last entry. Brotherhood has been busy this summer and is gearing for Fall and Winter ministry. If you think about it, it's difficult to mention winter and Florida in the same sentence. However, we will press on and "brave the cold" down here!

Brotherhood was able to provide sponsorships at a recent Men's Encounter and was priviledged to sing, as well. This outreach allows men with financial issues (and many do in these economic times) attend this one-on-one encounter with God. Each one is different and special with blessings, healings, deliverances and miracles experienced. Marriages and family relationships are restored and men become accountable Christians.

Our calendar is busily fitting in practices and ministries scheduled. Even as John & Phil work, Dan returns to teaching and Mel comes back from his vacation home, we bond together and pray for effective ministry. On October 2oth, we will join Lilli Knauls (Gaither Homecoming) in concert. As an added blessing, she requested that we sing a song with her. It's a new gospel tune that Brotherhood will need to learn - real fast!!

Monday, August 11, 2008

Greetings and Blessings

Brotherhood has gone high tech! What a blessing to "spead the word" through advanced communication. A special thanks to Jim Angelakos, a trusted friend and minister, who created the Brotherhood blog site as a personal favor. God bless you, my awesome buddy!

Friday, August 8, 2008

Brotherhood is...

... dedicated to sharing the love of God through Southern Gospel music- old and new. Come and see this anointed group of men who sing throughout Central Florida to Honor the King!

BROTHERHOOD















John, Phil, Mel and Dan


Welcome to the Brotherhood Blog

Please join us at 7 PM on October 20th at Faith Assembly for a Gospel Night. Special guest- Lilly Nauls