Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 1
Mr. Easy Lovin’
Congratulations on your Number 1 Song,
“This Old Church” Christian Servant Magazine’s Country For The Good Life Top 100 August, 2016
Freddie Hart is a legend in the Country music industry. His single "Easy Lovin" has sold over a million copies and is one of the most played singles in the world. Freddie had seven number one songs in a row, in Country music. His CD "Heavenly Wonderful Heavenly Beautiful" is all about Freddie’s love for CHRIST. He and his wife Ginger are true believers of the Gospel. This Country Gospel CD is a must for all those who love Freddie Hart's music and especially those who know and love Christ. You will want to share this CD with family and friends. It will truly bless you.
Purchase your copy today at CD Baby or Canyon Creek Records. OR To find out more about Freddie, his music, or purchase the CD please contact:
Tommy Smith at www.canyoncreekrecords.com or Call 903-566-3347 or cell 903-312-4113
Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 2
CONGRATULATIONS on your #1 song
Gimme Back My Country September, 2016 Christian Servant Magazine Country For The Good Life Top 100 Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 3
Tina Wakefield Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 4
Fall, 2016 - Edition IV Table of Contents Page 1 2 3 4 5 6
Article
13
Cover August #1 Song September #1 Song October #1 Song Table of Contents Grace From God Gus Style Country Gospel Christian Country Radio Guide For you are dust, And to dust you shall return. …The Way I See It A Great America? Autumn, Preparing for the Next Season More Than Conquerors
15 16 19
Good Ideas Way Out West Just A Thought
7
8
9 11 12
Author
Mike Merritt
Page 20 22 23 24 26 28 31
Marty Smith
John Penney Jimmy R. Price Stephanie Reck
33 39
Article Don’t Thank Me Priceless From The Desk Of Atmosphere Is Everything The Meanest Man In Texas Grieg Mayberry KSTV Radio Dysfunctional Family Christmas: The Serenity Prayer For The Holidays Country Gospel Music News and Events 2016 ICGMA Award Winners
Author Alan Allegra Billy R. Douglas Dr. Terry D. Davis Tina Wakefield Brad Wilson Grieg Mayberry Karla Downing
Tommy Smith
Felicia DeRamusPaul Roger Barkley, Jr. Terry & Debra Luna Gayla Earlene If you have enjoyed our publication, won’t you consider a tax deductible sponsorship role by supporting the continuation of the quarterly published Christian Servant Magazine? Your sponsorship will be acknowledged in the publication. Contact Tommy Smith at: tommysmith4@juno.com or call him at: (903) 566-3347 for more details. God Bless You!
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GRACE FROM GOD GUS STYLE by Mike Merritt http://merrittcowboyministries.com/
If you don’t really know how much GOD loves you , then you will never be able to get all that HE has for you. One of the first things we need to be able to accept is that we don’t really deserve no better than what we have and we can’t do anything to ourselves to make things better. We just need to know and believe that GOD loved HIS creation so much that HE gave HIS SON so HIS people could be saved. Even though we live in a corrupt world and more times than not we are a rougey people. I think about one of the all time favorite cowboy movies and see what GOD did for us. If have seen the movie Lonesome Dove, maybe you remember Lori darlin’ and the time Jake Spoon left her alone at the camp. He was off gamblin’ and drankin’ while she was alone. Lori was kidnapped by Blue Duck and taken to the camp full of outlaws and renegades where they just had their way with her, treated like an animal. This is the part that makes it a little more clearer to me as to what GOD has done for me and will do for you. Gus had taken a likin’ to Lori darlin’ and knew she was in trouble. She had no way to get herself out of this mess, even though she was not really responsible for her fate totally. Just like us, we sometimes make decisions based on what we want to do (Lori wanted to go to San Francisco and had no idea of the dangers involved) we are so focused on what we want that we don’t look at all of the things that might go wrong. Anyway like GOD did for us, Gus was the one to rescue Lori from her mess. Gus tracked down Blue Duck and the outlaws and prepared to make it right. You remember Jeremiah Johnson, he had lost his son to these outlaws and he wanted revenge. As Gus and Jeremiah blazed down that hill, the world didn’t know what was about to happen. Gus pulled his pistols, whoopin’ and a ridin’, taking out all them outlaws. When the dust settled, Jeremiah said you killed’em all, I never fired a shot. Gus took Lori darlin’ to a safe place, comforted her, restored her and helped her find her way. GOD don’t need help, we just need to fess up the truth; getting’ out of these messes we have made is more than we can handle. HE will rescue you from the bad guys, strengthen you and help you find your way. GRACE, we don’t deserve it, but we can receive it. Well if you saw the movie, quite a few mornings Gus was sitting by the fire cooking biscuits and reading the good book. You have to think he read about the disciples asking Jesus “who then could be saved” and Jesus said “with men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God, all things are possible. (Mark 10:27) Don’t really matter what kinda of storm we are dealing with, God will get us right through it. This ole world ain’t our home, we are just here for a little while. Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 6
Are you looking for our monthly Top 100 Charts? Check our website at: www.christianservantmagazine.com
Congratulations Doris Merritt 2016 ICGMA Female Vocalist of the Year!
Country Gospel Christian Country Radio Guide Country Music For The Good Life! Music for your listening pleasure! www.941icr.com with Ricky Russ, Abilene, Texas - 24/7
www.spiritcountry.cc with Joe Brashier South Bend, Indiana - 24/7
www.hleradio.com with Hunter Logan Jennings, LA. - 24/7
www.heavenscountry.com with Marty Smith - 24/7
www.kcwm.net Owner: Mike Carr Sundays 10:00 am CST with Tommy Smith San Antonio, Hondo, Texas
www.am1420wrcg.com with Jim Foster Columbus, GA - 24/7
www.wgnzradio.com with Tim Livingston Dayton, Ohio - 24/7 www.theranch.fm Sundays 8:00 am CST with Tommy Smith Tyler, Texas www.sunriseshow.net with Jim Tucker Roswell, NM - 24/7
www.etcgospel.com with Ken Iverson Chandler,Texas - 24/7 www.cgcradio.com with Gene & Micki Farington Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. - 24/7 www.wdcxradio.com with Bob Terry Buffalo, NY - 24/7
www.kingcountry.org Roger and Glorya Whitaker Arlington, Texas - 24/7 www.praypraypray.net Praise Radio w/ Bryon Fester Spruce Grove, Alberta - 24/7 www.truecountryfm.com with Gaylon King San Antonio, TX - 24/7 www.votlmedia.org with Billy R. Douglas Livermore, KY - 24/7
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For you are dust, And to dust you shall return. by Marty Smith
I read a verse that puts everything into perspective. It’s from Genesis 3:19. It says, “By the sweat of your face you will eat bread, Till you return to the ground, Because from it you were taken; For you are dust, And to dust you shall return." When I read this verse I had to read it again. “For you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” In the entertainment industry, it’s easy to let things go to our heads. We look at what we’ve done and we swell up with pride saying, “Look at all the things I’ve done”, not realizing that in the grand scheme of things, we are just a vapor in the wind when it comes to time. We are nothing without Jesus. When I look back on my radio career, I’m amazed at how God has blessed me. Everything that I have, everything that I am is because of Him. I’m nothing without Him. Then, when I look at this verse, I realize I am nothing but dust, and to dust I will return. One hundred years from now, will anyone remember me? I doubt it. But, if I set my mind on things above and store up my treasures in Heaven, that is what’s important. That is what will last for eternity. We can brag on all the awards we’ve won, we can build ourselves up and say, “No one’s ever done what I’ve done”, or “Without me, this industry is nothing.” That’s the wrong attitude to have. We need to be giving praise to God for what He’s given us. The awards, the music career, the studio or radio station, the recognition, the talent that we have….all of that is because of Him. I’d like to challenge you with this thought; from this moment on, let’s commit to putting God first instead of ourselves. Every decision we make should begin with a prayer. We need to ask God for guidance, to guard our hearts, our mouths and our attitudes. We need to ask God to put a song of praise on our lips to exalt HIS name and not ourselves. We are dust, and to dust we shall return. How are you using the gifts that God has given you? Marty Smith is the morning host of Heaven’s Country (www.heavenscountry.com) from 6 – 10 AM MTN Time every weekday. He’s also the host of the internationally syndicated radio show, “Todays’ Cross Country” (www.todayscrosscountry.com). You can email him at: martysmith@todayscrosscountry.com
Congratulations! 2016 ICGMA RADIO STATION OF THE YEAR Heaven’s Country Marty Smith Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 8
‌the way I see it by John Penney The Christian Outlaw www.johnpenneymusic.com Most of you who know me will most likely spend the next few moments laughing at my feeble attempt to write something that will be informative, concise and factual. I will also laugh at myself whenever I get the chance. I would like to share just a few thoughts on what I can do to make myself just a bit more presentable to those that I wish to impress by being more presentable. My wife tells me all the time that I need to pick out better clothes to wear because of course, clothes make the man. Obviously I do not have the correct ensemble anywhere in the house so off she and I will go to try and locate all of the necessary clothing that will help me to become just a bit more user friendly, which is a term that all of my children use to describe me at various points in time. It is such a Blessing to live in an environment where the atmosphere is totally female and when I need good solid information, it is always available at all times, night or day. Anyway I decided that I should start with maybe a new pair of pants and possibly a shirt or two even though all of the shirts that I have hanging in my closet are perfectly fine. So, of course someone has to supervise all of the purchases that might be made, sort of like instant quality control. My dear wife Carlene is just the one to assist me. After all, she pushes the final buttons on most decisions that govern all of most anything where I am concerned anyway. I am sure that I am not the only guy who has used this method of shopping at one time or another. Now we are about ready to depart on this most important of manly missions and yet we are not exactly ready yet. Carlene has lost her cellphone and we cannot advance. I am patiently waiting quietly by the door. She finds it. In her purse, which is this huge thing that holds everything. Trust me when I say it indeed will hold everything. It took almost ten minutes to find the phone and the only place she looked was in her purse. So we head out on this epic journey to the Macon Mall which takes about forty-five minutes so we have time for us to catch up on what is going on in our lives. The main topic is all about our two beautiful granddaughters and how we can possibly kidnap them. Just joking. If you have Grandkids, then you will understand. The newest one is Autumn Rose and she is absolutely perfect. She is going to give Stella a run I can assure you of that. As we are driving along we do talk about our friends and the ones we feel need prayer and we also talk about life in general. You know, the stuff that is going on in our lives as we grow a little bit older and one of us gets a tiny bit smarter. Guess which one‌ Continued on next page‌
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Seriously, how about if everybody who lives together would just have a conversation about the everyday things that we face in life. The best times for me are when I have the chance to just talk with my wife. She is an incredible person. She is way smarter than most of the guys I hang around with and she is surely easier to look at. My point is that maybe things in life would be just a little bit better if we take the time to talk to each other. And prayer. Prayer is the single most powerful tool that we Christians have and it always works. Prayer works, Amen. Ok, I seem to be rambling on and on but this was a real trip to get me in a better place with being more presentable and I enjoy driving and talking to my best friend and learning things from her that make me feel better. We did do some shopping around and I must say I am a bit more presentable now than I was then. That is not the rest of the story though, I am pretty sure that I agree to going shopping at times if it is just me and Carlene just so we can have that hour or so to catch up. Ain’t God good? We make plans and He shakes His head. Take a little bit of time and just talk to each other….and pray for everybody. That`s the way I see it……
MELANIE WALKER Things that matter most.
Melanie Walker is one of America’s most requested Radio and TV Traditional Country Gospel female recording artists of our times. For over seventeen years she has released one top charting song after another. Songs like "Walking In Jerusalem", "Until Then", "Come And Dine", "Great Speckled Bird" and the list goes on and on. It looks like she is doing it again. Her newest single "Pass Me Not" released to radio on Canyon Creek Records compilation Volume 37 is already getting tremendous spins from radio coast to coast. The song has already placed at #30 in Christian Servant Magazine’s "Country For The Good Life" Top 100 and also at #30 in Cashbox Magazine’s Country Christian Top 100. It looks like it is headed straight to the top. To contact Melanie call her at: 618-937-4274 or go to her Facebook page. Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 10 http://www.melaniewalkerblog.com/
A Great America? by Jimmy R. Price www.jimmyrprice.com
We are presently in the middle of a presidential election year and one of the political platforms has been the question of whether or not America is still the great nation that it had always been. One candidate is running on the theme of “Make America Great Again,” while the other candidate claims that America is “already great.” Certainly, I believe that America is the greatest country on Earth and I am so blessed to be a citizen here. However, I do agree with the fact that America is not nearly as great as it once was. I am also in agreement that there are some things that we must do if we want America to get back on the right path to greatness. I. We Must Trust In Our Great God Psalm 48:1 says, “Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in the mountain of His holiness.” Psalm 95:3 says, “For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods.” Our God is the only true God and He’s the one who made America great in the first place. He’s the only one that can make it great again. No politician, or political party can fix what’s wrong in our country. In fact, liberal politicians and Supreme Court judges that are forcing their ungodly schemes to undermine faith and family are a huge reason why we are no longer the great nation that we should be. Psalm 33:12 says, ”Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord…” We cannot continue to expect God to “bless America” if we continue to turn away from Him and His word. We must again trust in our Great God! II. We Must Live By the Great Commandment When Jesus was asked the question about “which is the greatest of all the commandments?” He replied with these words, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all they soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” (Matt.22:37-39) Perhaps the greatest problem in our country today is that the majority of people don’t love God the way we should; heart, soul, and mind. Only then can we truly love our neighbors. As a result our society is filled with violence, hatred, prejudice and self-serving pride. The only hope for overcoming the hate and violence we are seeing today is for us to live by God’s Great Commandment of Love. III. We Must Fulfill the Great Commission In Matt. 28:18-20 Jesus said, “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” Sadly, the truth is that at least some of the responsibility of our nation’s backsliding condition falls squarely on the church. For years now much of the “body of Christ” has been sitting silently soaking in our pews. Instead of sitting in our seats, we should be hitting the streets (going). Instead of being afraid we might offend someone, we should be teaching people what Jesus taught about how we should live. Instead of worrying about the things of this world, we should be winning people to Christ. Come on Church!!! America won’t be great again unless the church is willing to be great again! The church will not be great again unless we as individual believers are willing to allow God to make us what we need to be! “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from Heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” (II Chron. 7:14) Only God can make America great again. We must repent, trust, and obey Him! We must Love God and Others! We must Share the Gospel! Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 11
Autumn, Preparing for the Next Season by Stephanie Reck
As I look out my window typing this article, I can see the leaves are changing colors and I have my window open because the air is crisp and cooler. I love this time of year, and I enjoy the warm foods that come with this season. I enjoy homemade soup, chili, and even cocoa. As the season changes, I change my dÊcor to look like fall. I have pumpkins and mums outside and indoors I decorate with festive fall colors. I also reorder my closet to bring out my coats and sweaters, and put away my shorts and summer tops. I pull out my boots and put away my summer flip flops. You can say I am preparing for the next season. Now parallel how we get ready for a physical change in a season, we need to prepare for a spiritual change in seasons as well. Just as the seasons change and we get summer, fall, winter, and spring, our spiritual lives go through seasons as well. In Holidays and Holy Nights, Christopher Hill points out that for the Christian who observes the liturgical year, autumn is actually the beginning of the cycle. Each season we go through will represent something different for us. The fall represents change, harvest, and preparation. This spiritual season is parallel to the season of fall. The leaves on the trees are falling making way for new growth in the spring, but will undergo a time of preparation until. Just as our lives are undergoing changes, we should "gather and prepare" now for the time of new growth that will come. The climate also changes, depending where you live of course, but where I live, we have changes in temperature. Right now, it has been rather brisk and the nights have been cold. It is time to make a fire in the fireplace and put on our coats and sweaters. While changing to the next spiritual season, you may need to spend extra time "bundling up" in the Word and in God's presence, to prepare you for all that is to come. How do you know when a spiritual season of change is coming? 1. There is an anticipation. You do not know exactly what, but you sense something will happen. 2. You are spending more time in God's Word and long to be in His presence, nothing else will do. 3. You have been in a long, "wilderness" season and have prayed and waited for answered prayers and deliverance. 4. You long and yearn for change, yet in your own strength you know it is impossible and would need the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit. 5. You have been pulled back from your usual activities and friendships, and God has been doing a refining work in you. You are engaged in minimal activities, and are not preoccupied with busyness, because you know God is preparing you for His purposes. Now is the time to prepare for the harvest, anticipate change, remove "dead' things from your life, stay connected to God as you transition, and begin speaking life over all your circumstances; even if those things seem inactive or finished. This is the season to write out your vision again, and be convinced once again of God's calling on your life. Life will come back to those things that have seemed to wither away. See everything in your past as training ground for your next season- your prior ministry endeavors, professional and personal experiences, and even past failures can serve as training. God will use it all! Stephanie Reck, LMSW, LBT,BCCC. Christian counselor, author, speaker, and teacher. Stephanie has a passion to bring hope and encouragement and to see people made whole. Contact Stephanie at HopeandEncouragement4Women@gmail.com Copyright Š 2016, Hope Ministry. All Rights Reserved. Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 12
My daughter is my special guest writer this month. A little testimony and teaching. Sincerely, Pastor Dr. Doug DeRamus You can visit Doug DeRamus at: www.facebook.com/dougderamus
MORE THAN CONQUERORS By Felicia DeRamus-Paul
Rom. 8:35-39 - (35) Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? (36) As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. (37) Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. (38) For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, (39) Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. KJV
Well I want to start by saying 2014 was a year of challenge for me. My Grandma Dorthy passed away in the spring and my husband Charles' Grandpa passed away in the late spring. During this sad Spring, most people didn’t know I was pretty sick with stomach issues that continued during summer break and I was losing weight. The Doctors did so many tests on me throughout the year trying to find what was wrong with me and were not sure other than just a small little sugar problem. I did end up dealing with the biggest fear battle in my life, and once I started worrying more things would come up, for me to be fearful about. Not only was I afraid but I had lost more weight and was more skinny than I already was. People would tell me how skinny I am, but I never would tell them why. I was already embarrassed of the few pounds I lost. The fear of becoming a diabetic, losing more weight, and being sick from losing too much weight, was already hard enough. The fear was tormenting me day and night. I knew that I needed to overcome. 1 John 4:18 - There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. KJV MAKING A STAND: Then by the time Christmas came around, I was determined to make a stand. I was not going to worry about things, I was not going to let fear take over who I really was in Christ! It's easy to allow anxiety, depression, or fear come into your life, but is that really how you want to live? Truly in your heart, if you don't want these things in your life, you have the power to stop them in the Christ Jesus. Phil 4:13 - I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. KJV Romans 8:37 - Nay, in all these things we are MORE than conquerors through him that loved us. Continued on next page‌ Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 13
Ricky Russ & Brother “Howdy” 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM Monday – Friday Brad Wilson 12:00 Noon – 4:00 PM Monday – Friday Cassie G 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM Monday – Friday
Artists, get your music to Ricky Russ - (325) 677-8890 - RickyRuss.ICR@gmail.com
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So if we are more than conquerors, don't you think we can conquer these things in life that the enemy tries to attack us with? With Him in you, and the sword (bible) in your hand, you can defeat that giant in your life, and cut his head off. Like my Dad has preached on, "Change your image." Start seeing what you want and desire in your life. Create your own “mind movie”. So I don't imagine myself being sick. I imagine myself having a happy, healthy life. The kind of life that God has for me. My health came back and every time fear comes up, I remember, “I am more than an overcomer.”
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Good Ideas by Roger Barkley, Jr. www.rogerbarkleyjr.com
We all have what seems to be good ideas at the time of conception. Some come in the middle of the night. Mine sometimes are written as illegible chicken scratch it seems on a piece of paper beside the bed at 2 or 3 AM with a brilliant thought that in the light of day (and good night sleep) may not be as brilliant as once was thought. Back when I was growing up I had one of those brilliant ideas. I had been watching a movie of a hero using a bola to capture a bad guy. I thought it was the coolest thing ever. Being a preacher’s kid, I knew we could not afford to send off for one through the mail much less that my mom would go for the idea anyway. I did the next best thing. I made my own. I found enough rope and tied it to what I could remember it looked like in the movies. I proceeded to twirl it round and round my head. I let it fly and to my amazement it worked. It wrapped around the fence post just like I aimed on the very first try. I thought to myself this has to be beginners luck so I tried it 3-4 more times and was astonished that the fence post, the tree, and the bicycle had all succumbed to the newly acquired weapon in my arsenal. Not leaving well enough alone, as young boys usually do, I thought I needed a moving target. Since there were not many bad guys around, I knew I needed to draft someone so I looked at my youngest brother and just said “Hey Curtis….Run!” Once again my little invention and good idea had worked. There was one minor flaw in my thought process however. I did not count on my dad seeing this part of the research & development of my invention. Dad was not as impressed with the use of the tool as I would have hoped. He did however come out to speak with me about this idea process and the development there of and the use of it on my baby brother. The conversation of which I would not forget to this day. A lot of times we have these ideas that we dream up in our minds as fantastic without ever consulting our Heavenly Father just as I never consulted my earthly father. If we also would have consulted him he would have maybe given us a better idea, a better way of getting our idea done, a better way of reaching the result than we had done on our own. Just as my earthly father and I discussed my decision, we have a Heavenly Father ready to listen to our repentance as well. Just as my dad was watching, not to see if and when I messed up but to see, I believe, if I would make the better decision. Our Heavenly Father watches over us ready to help us make those hard decisions when we ask. So the next time you have a brilliant idea, talk to God about it before putting it into action. That way maybe you won’t be given so much rope you will get into trouble.
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Way Out West by Terry & Debra Luna
It’s Harvest TimeAn Interview with Bill Carter The Pacific Northwest is known for its many picturesque landscapes with several mountain ranges, plateaus, lush extensive forests, and beautiful coastlines. Harvest time in the State of Washington begins each year in August and continues until early November. Washington’s annual harvest yields more than 100 million boxes of apples; thus Washington State leads the country in apple production. No other state comes close to Washington’s apple yield. As Christian artists we are always considering another type of harvest, Matthew (9: 35-38) “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Therefore beseech the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest.” (NASB). Currently residing in the small town of Custer, Washington lives a legendary Country Gospel artist, Bill Carter. We had the opportunity to speak with Bill and his lovely wife, Lady Vi for an interview. His music career stretches from being a Country Western Swing Musician, adding his own chapter in the story of the Bakersfield Sound, to realizing his need for something more in his life and eventually to his extraordinary career in Country Gospel Music. We will attempt to highlight a few of his many accomplishments in this article. It is our intent to bring honor and insight to such a trailblazer in Country Gospel music. Bill Carter was born in Eagleton, AR in 1929 and recalls feeling a desire to sing from a very young age. His mother would help him tune in WSM Radio, AM 650 on the dial where he could listen to the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday nights. He recalls being discovered at the age of 9, singing in the back seat of an automobile by a school teacher and was given a chance to sing on radio station KGHI in Little Rock. This sparked a fire in him. He later moved with his family to California in the late 1940’s and formed a country music band in his teen age years. This eventually led to a full time career in country music. “It all happened in the 50’s when Bob Wills invited me to the stage to sing some songs with him and the Texas Playboys,” he recalls. Bill has performed with some of the most renowned Country singers in the industry. The Cottonseed Clark’s TV show “The Hoffman Hayride” gave Bill the opportunity to sing one song each along with guest stars such as Eddie Dean, Merle Travis, Eddie Kirk, Tommy Duncan, and Stuart Hamblin, just to name a few. Bill recalls being a guest on Town Hall Party, an American country music radio and TV show broadcast over Southern California stations KXLA-AM, KFI-AM and KTTV-TV, and performing “Lonesome Letter Blues” accompanied by the twin guitars of Merle Travis and Joe Maphis. Bill Carter formed many lifelong relationships in Country Music, Bob Wills, Ray Price, Slim Whitman, Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, Cliff and Billy Mize, Johnny Cash, Marvin Rainwater, Bonnie Owens, Fuzzy Owen, Tommy Hill, Ernest Tubb, Fred Maddox and the list goes on and on. Bill even recalls the night that George Jones, wearing his Marine Corps uniform and Carter in his Air Force uniform performed a few country-western duets at a very popular spot in Redwood City, CA. Sometime later, George Jones paid a $1.50 cover charge at a Northern California venue to hear Carter perform. On the Country recording scene, Carter recorded 4 sides in 1957 for Tally Records in Bakersfield, CA, the most well-known being “I Wanna Feel Good” which landed him a spot on the world-famous Louisiana Hayride. Bill toured to Louisiana in a Cadillac along with fellow Tally Records artists, Fuzzy Owen, Lewis Talley and Buck Owens. Continued on next page… Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 16
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In 1959 Carter had a brief foray into Rockabilly with the Jimmy O’Neal-penned “Cool Tomcat” on the Ozark Label, a Top-10 Charting single for over two years in Europe, which later landed him a spot in the Rockabilly Hall of Fame located in Jackson, TN. MGM Records brought his most successful secular recording with “Shot Four Times and Died,” originally released on D Records, later picked up by MGM. Bill Carter never performed the song before a live audience, as his life was about to change forever. Working as a Disc Jockey on radio station KCVR in Lodi, California, Bill Carter was scheduled to interview a Country Gospel group, The Christian Troubadours as they were in town holding a meeting in nearby Stockton, CA. Bill conducted the interview, played a song from their latest record on the air and was so impressed by the men and their Country Gospel sound, that he followed them to the church that afternoon. Carter reveals, “I heard a song sung under the anointing of the Holy Spirit and God convicted me of my sin. The following Sunday afternoon, on that beautiful day, October 1, 1961, I surrendered everything to Jesus.” A few months later, Bill Carter received a call to join the Christian Troubadours, one of the most successful Country Gospel groups of their time. In 1962, Bill brought his upright bass fiddle and melodic tenor voice to the Christian Troubadours who were gaining in popularity and were invited to sing all over the United States and Canada. I am sure that everyone recalls this tremendous country gospel group and in some way or another impressed us all to spread the gospel through song. This group was voted the “Nation’s Number One Country Gospel Quartet,” and were invited by the government to go overseas and entertain the troops. Each member of the group contributed so much to the music industry and ministry that obviously this group’s story is another entire story in itself. While touring and recording extensively with the Troubadours, Bill met a young choir director originally from Arkansas, who was now living with her family in Sunnyside, WA, Viola Cunningham. One day while the Troubs were rehearsing a song at the Home Missionary Church, the brown-eyed choir directory walked in with her sister. She told her sister “See the man playing the bass fiddle? That’s the man I am going to marry”. “Lady Vi” and he would communicate by phone and letter for some time before becoming man and wife. After four years of long distance communication, as the Troubadours traveled the world, the choir director and Bill became man and wife. Bill will tell you that this marriage was made in heaven as they have been married over 52 years. Bill traveled with the Troubadours for seven years. In 1969, Lady Vi and Bill felt the Lord calling them to form their own family singing group and to begin ministering as The Bill Carter Singers. “With no money in their pockets, the day they were to leave, we were in prayer. In the mail, that day, came two gasoline credit cards,” Bill states. This provided lodging and fuel for the journey to Modesto, CA, where they lived for several years. Brad, their only son, started singing with The Bill Carter Singers at a very young age. The talented family traveled the country singing, preaching, and leading hundreds of souls to Jesus. They have met so many wonderful people in their life’s journey. No doubt, many of us recall hearing them sing and preach the word of God throughout the years. Lady Vi is a prolific songwriter penning well over 100 songs throughout the years. Various recording artists have sung and recorded her songs. We asked Lady Vi to name one song that she feels made the most impact on people. She readily replied, “Anywhere You Send Me”! She noted that this song has been used over and over again in so many situations such as Ordination Services for Ministers. Vi also indicated that things aren’t perfect, but doing what God has planned for our lives, that’s what matters! After many years on the road as a full time evangelistic team traveling in the “ol’ faithful bus with a Cummings engine,” the Lord called the family to pastor a church in Wapato, Washington. The Lord used Bill and Lady Vi in so many different ways as pastors at Wapato Washington Assembly of God. While pastoring, word reached him that he was being inducted into the Western Swing Hall of Fame. He credits this induction to the time he sang with Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys. He remembers that he sang “Deep Water” and Faded Love,” Bob was very gracious and yelled his familiar “Ah Haw!” Bob spoke the words, “Sing it Billy Boy.” He believes that performance was the reason he was nominated for an induction into the Western Swing Hall Of Fame in 2007. Continued on next page… Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 17
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Bill indicates that there have been several different chapters in his life.... “I think of how a person is given a talent to sing. Only God bestows the talent and what we do with it, it is up to us. I was glad for the success he gave me; however, I must admit that I reached the most important step of mine on the ladder of success, when in l961, I dedicated the talent back to the One who gave it to me and began to use it to become a soul winner....” He feels blessed that he spent a lot of time in recording studios. “I recorded ten albums with the Christian Troubadours, three albums with the Countrymen, ten albums as The Bill Carter Singers, and before that I was recording country music back in the old 78 RPM days. What a rich and rewarding life!!” In conclusion: Bill’s life story is incredible and he has participated in so many fascinating adventures specific to a certain time. However, since 1961 Bill’s life has been dedicated to the Harvest: “Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes, and look on the fields, that they are white for harvest. Already he who reaps is receiving wages, and is gathering fruit for life eternal; that he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together. For in this case the saying is true, ‘One sows, and another reaps.’ I sent you to reap that for which you have not labored; others have labored, and you have entered into their labor.” (NASB) John 4:35-38. Words cannot express how grateful and thankful we are to this incredible couple, Bill and Lady Vi, for all the work they have done and have blazed a trail for all of us to follow. Bill tells us now that he is retired, he uses Social Media, specifically, Facebook, to continue his ministry, “to look on the fields, as they are white for harvest”. Be sure to check out his Facebook page! Additionally, you can purchase his CD’s by dropping him a line on Facebook; and just let him and Lady Vi know the influence they had in the Country Gospel genre and how much we appreciate them for doing exactly what they were called to do! Bill asked us to also contact Anna Fernandez as she had previously gathered extensive interview material concerning his early days as a Country artist; as a result, some of her questions and answers have been be added to this article. Excerpts from Bill Carter’s Facebook page have also been used as a reference. Until next time from “Way Out West.” Happy Trails!
Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 18
"Just A Thought" with Gayla Earlene Visit Gayla Earlene at http://www.gaylaearlene.com
Driftwood
As a youngster, my beautiful Momma and her sister loved to scour the banks of our local lakes in search of neat looking pieces of old driftwood. They loved to take their treasures home, wash and bleach them clean, and then seal them with varnish and decorate with flowers, etc., to be used as decor in their homes. People were amazed at what they could do with those old dirty pieces of driftwood. When I think about, see or hear the shape of our world today, I can see how so many people are floating around like pieces of driftwood, not caring much about anything and being led by the ways of sin. You know by drifting you get blown one way and then another, knocked around by other floaters, and the longer you float, the faster you go, then completely out of control!! Finally you hit the shore and you sit there and do nothing but rot, UNLESS, somebody finds you, picks you up, cleanses you and makes a piece of art out of you. Friend, our God made you, you are a work of art and He did not intend for you to go along in life with no direction, no hopes, no dreams, or love. You have LIFE through Jesus Christ our Lord. You have a purpose and it isn't to become a dirty old piece of driftwood. Give your heart to God today, He will surely pick you up, cleanse you, give you awesome direction and make His piece of art simply beautiful!! "Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard lest we drift away" Hebrews 2:1 (NKJV)
Featuring Gene Crain on Steel Guitar
NEW RELEASE! from Gayla Earlene My prayer is that as you listen to this album, you will feel the presence of God and realize that there is nothing this world can offer that can compare to the love of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Romans 12:2 “Do not be conformed to this world but be ye transformed by the renewing of your heart through Christ.” Includes both the break out hit, “A Miracle On His Mind” and the chart climbing release, “King Of My Heart”. You can preview and purchase this CD on Gayla’s website at:
www.gaylaearlene.com
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Don't Thank Me! by Alan Allegra What does November mean to you? Perhaps a beloved's birthday; maybe falling foliage, flying footballs, and a family feast. How about fallen veterans, Friday vacations, and flu vaccinations? For some, it's an awfully annoying amount of alliteration. In America, the most obvious highlight in November is Thanksgiving Day. The seeds of this official holiday sprouted in 1789 with George Washington's Thanksgiving Proclamation. The original manuscript is being auctioned at Christie's in New York on the 14th for about $12 million. Some well-to-do collector will see great value in this historic document. President Washington saw great value in the need to thank God for His blessings. I heard someone on the radio say there are no examples in the Bible of people thanking one another. This is not meant to encourage discourtesy. We all know how it feels to do something for someone -letting a driver in ahead of you, or giving someone a present -- and not be acknowledged. If we're really sensitive, we get insulted by the disconnected thanks from the clerk who mechanically mumbles, "Thankshaveagoodone" or the child on the phone whose Mommy can be heard in the background saying, "Tell Auntie Em 'Thank you' for the nice sweater!" We all like to receive sincere expressions of appreciation. A giver deserves gratitude. Bart Simpson once prayed, "Dear God. We paid for all this stuff ourselves, so thanks for nothing." What this profane painted personality fails to see with his penciled-in pupils is that God deserves thanks, not just for our food but absolutely everything! Let's add it all up: "You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth" (Deuteronomy 8:18). "You cause the grass to grow for the livestock and plants for man to cultivate, that he may bring forth food from the earth" (Psalm 104:14). The apostle Paul used an agricultural analogy to illustrate the work of the gospel: "I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth" (1 Corinthians 3:6 - 7). Man can work as hard as he can, but if God doesn't bring results, the work is in vain. "Every generous act of giving, with every perfect gift, is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change" (James 1:17, NRSV). Even the act of giving is energized by God. "What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?" (1 Corinthians 4:7). "In him we live and move and have our being" (Acts 17:28). In light of the goodness of the Father of lights, this is how we should live: Continued on next page‌ Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 20
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"Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Ephesians 5:20). "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him" (Colossians 3:17). Although we may not understand what is going on in and around us, we can be thankful that God is a loving Father. Notice that the thankful posture is linked to a standing in Jesus Christ. Speaking of those who, having savingly responded to the gospel of Christ, were motivated to give generously to the poor, Paul cries, "Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!" (2 Corinthians 9:15). Better by far than the Corinthians' generosity was the grace of God wrapped in the gift of salvation through the Son of God. The fruit and higher purpose of giving thanks -- to anyone and for anything -- is for thanks-giving to abound to the glory of God (Luke 17; 2 Corinthians 9:10 - 15). Let us not just be grateful for our plateful, but let us live in an attitude of gratitude! Alan Allegra is a freelance Christian writer in Pennsylvania. Contact me at alan.allegra@gmail.com. More articles at Lifestyles Over 50: http://www.lifestylesover50.com/ and the Morning Call: www.mcall.com. Available for writing. LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alanallegra/ Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com
The Work of A Carpenter Ministries If you love Jesus, you’re not ashamed to glorify His name. If you serve Jesus, it is about Him and not about you. If you make it about Him, His light will shine through you and many will follow the light. If you make it all about you, none will see the light in you. Only darkness will prevail. This will cause many to stumble and fall. Greg McDougal has chosen to be a light for Christ and you will hear the proof in his brand new single release to radio "Father I Praise You". The lyrics honor and glorify Christ. It is truly a Christian Country praise song. This one will reach your soul. “Father I Praise You” has already charted at #66 in October’s "Country For The Good Life" Top 100 and I believe it will make it all the way to the top. For bookings or product contact Greg at www.theworkofacarpenterministries.org or go to his Facebook page.
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Priceless by Billy R. Douglas For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. 1 Corinthians 6:20 A well-known speaker started off his seminar by holding up a $100 bill. In the room of 200, he asked, "Who would like this $100 bill?" Hands started going up. He said, "I am going to give this $100 to one of you but first, let me do this." He proceeded to crumple the dollar bill up. He then asked, "Who still wants it?" Still the hands were up in the air. "Well," he replied, "What if I do this?" And he dropped it on the ground and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now all crumpled and dirty. "Now who still wants it?" Still the hands went into the air. "My friends, you have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it because it did not decrease in value. It was still worth $100. Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. We feel as though we are worthless. But no matter what has happened, how unclean, crumpled or creased, you are still priceless to God. How so very true it is today that no matter how “useless” or “worthless” we are in the eyes of the world...we are God’s priceless treasure. So many times when we mess up, make mistakes, stumble and fall the enemy whispers things to us like “your no good for nothing, your worthless, you cannot do anything right”. Even to the point where he has caused countless people to come to believe that they are not “worthy” of God’s love and care. Truth be told NONE of us are worthy of God’s mercy, grace, compassion or love. But in spite of that He loves us, in spite of that he cares for us, in spite of that He gave the very best that He had to redeem us from the fall. He gave His only begotten Son so that we could be saved. With that in mind let me assure you today that He has given far too great a price to redeem you to just give up on you, walk away from you or cast you aside. If anyone walks away it will be you not God, if anyone gives up it will be you NOT GOD! He knew what He was getting when he purchased you through the cross of Calvary. Many times when you buy something used there will be a sign posted on it or it will say in the contract “AS IS”...meaning there is no guarantee!! He knew you would fall, He knew you would struggle and mess up along the way BUT still in knowing all of this He gave the very best for you. Salvation is free today but only for mankind...it was not free for the Father for He gave His Son. It was not free for the Son for He gave His life. And all of this was done knowing that what He was getting was us...“AS IS”. The Bible says in Romans 5:8 “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” How much more now that we are His children is His love, mercy, and grace extended to us? Not because we are perfect BUT in spite of the fact that we are not!! So when you stumble, when you fall, when you mess up...and you will! No matter what the enemy says, no matter what the world says...no matter what your flesh says ALWAYS remember that you are His child! Always remember the great price that has been paid for our salvation and always remember that if you won’t give up on Him, He will never give up on you! In closing I want to leave you with some of the words to a beautiful song that was written a long long time ago but still rings a great truth for us today… ”I hear the Savior say, “Thy strength indeed is small; Child of weakness, watch and pray, Find in Me thine all in all. Jesus paid it all, All to Him I owe; Sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow.” Until next time may the LORD bless and keep you is my prayer, Pastor Billy R. Douglas VOTL Ministries PO Box 541 Livermore, KY 4235 www.votlradio.com - www.voiceofthelordministries.com Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 22
From the Desk of Dr. Terry D. Davis by Terry Davis www.terrydavismusic.com
The most glorious thing about God is how much he loves us! Augustine said, "God loves each of us as if there were only one of us." Jeremiah 31:3 says, "I have loved you with an everlasting love." Wow! God loves you, and he loves you with a love that is beyond understanding because there is no human love comparable to divine love. He wants to forgive you. He wants to have a relationship with you. "God is love," 1st John 4:16. It doesn't make a difference how far you try to run from God. He loves you. His eye is on you. He sees you. God loves you and the bible says that God sent his son, Jesus Christ, from heaven to this earth for you. Christ came to this earth to pay for your sins on a cross. God has a plan for your life! "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future." God created you in his image, and you are important to God! "Indeed the very hairs of your head are numbered," Luke 12:7. God knows who you are. He knows your name and everything about you. Get over it! You are someone special to God! His love is everlasting love! There is no love like God's love for his children. What security! What peace! What love! We are special in God!
2016 ICGMA GROUP OF THE YEAR WWW.THEREEDBROTHERS.COM
The Reed Brothers, from Louisville, Mississippi, are four brothers who over the years have brought gospel music to the local churches around Mississippi and beyond. They bring a home grown and incredible talent to the stage with energy and excitement. From the time they were young they have been in and around music. The brothers have dedicated themselves to spreading the gospel through their songs. This has been passed down for generations along with a strong belief in Jesus Christ. Their parents always made sure they were raised in a Christian home and truly blessed them with a legacy of faith. Over the years, they have penned many testimonial and love filled songs where God receives all the glory. Their music has one main goal...showing the love of Jesus as the true path to heaven. "It's all about Him" has become the battle cry, prayer and mainstay of everything they do. Their new release “I'll Make The Most Of It” is now #35 in October’s Christian Servant Magazine Country For the Good Life Top 100 Chart. They were awarded Group of the Year at the ICGMA Convention in August , 2016. Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 23
Atmosphere Is Everything by Tina Wakefield www.tinawakefield.com We hear people talk of the climate or atmosphere of our country over this election, but we need to understand the importance of the atmosphere around us. We need to understand that we live in two different atmospheres at the same time. We live in a physical atmosphere that we see, hear, smell, touch, and taste. And a Spiritual Atmosphere that cannot be accessed with our physical senses - but it is very real and important. Have you ever entered a room where two or more people were not getting along? Could you sense the tenseness and know that something is just not right? All it would take is for someone to act on the atmosphere of the room and the whole room would change. Satan knows about atmosphere and that is why he lures people into a particular atmosphere before they ever sin or fall. For instance, what’s the difference in a friend getting you to go to the mall than going to the club with them? Atmosphere! You are more likely to participate in the club activities if you are there instead of the mall. You can grow oranges in Florida but not Wisconsin- why? Atmosphere or climate. There is something about the club with the lights, music, dancing, the alcohol- it creates a whole atmosphere and atmosphere creates a climate- climate creates a culture. If Satan can get you into his culture he can get you to sin. The same is true of the Holy Spirit; Atmosphere is everything. The atmosphere of holiness, praise, honor, reverence, worship, prayer, love attracts the Holy Spirit. Just as the atmosphere of drinking, anger, hatred attracts evil influences. God responds to atmosphere- He is everywhere but He does not manifest (make Himself Known) everywhere. He manifests Himself where the atmosphere is welcoming to Him. Psalms 22: 3 But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel. To inhabit means to dwell there- live there- it means you are comfortable in this atmosphere or environment. If you are arguing, fault- finding, complaining God is not comfortable in this atmosphere and He will not dwell there. If you are saved and are filled with the Holy Spirit and live according to the fruit of the Spirit in your life- then you are filled with Love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, kindness, and these will become a part of you- creating an atmosphere where the Spirit of God will live. Ephesians 2: 22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. We are the temple of the Holy Ghost. We know that the miracles of God did not stop, but we don’t hear of great miracles in many churches anymore why? There is no atmosphere of miracles present. There is a limited atmosphere of faith. This was recorded in the Bible when Jesus went to His home town of Nazareth and Mark 6:5-6 records that He could do there no mighty work because of their unbelief. Continued on next page… Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 24
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If you have ever visited many churches then you know that you can sense when you go in if this is right or something is just not right- it is the atmosphere of the place you are sensing. Miracles happen when the atmosphere is right. Tornadoes have a specific atmosphere, hurricanes, snow, ice all depend on the atmosphere. What kind of atmosphere does your life have? Are you attracting the Holy Spirit in your life or an evil influence? What kind of atmosphere does your home have? Is it filled with love, peace or is it filled with fear, anger?
Thank you! Thank you to all the radio stations and fans for playing and requesting my new release…
ALL THE WAY The song is charted at #20 for October, 2016. And thank you to the International Country Gospel Music Association (ICGMA) for the Album of the Year Award for my album “Crossover”. I am humbled, thankful, and so so blessed! I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: and I will sing praises unto thee among the nations. For thy mercy is great above the heavens: and thy truth reacheth unto the clouds. Psalms 108 Verse 3-4
Jimmy R. Price A big ole Louisianan thank you to the DJ's and Fans for making it possible for "Road To Success" to chart at #4 in the Christian Servant Magazine "Country For The Good Life" Top 100 for Oct 2016. Most of all a heart full of gratitude, and love goes out to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, not only for giving me the talent to write and sing songs of praise, but for the sacrifice Christ made on the cross to see that all of us could receive the promise of mercy and forgiveness of our sins. When people that I meet for the first time ask what kind of songs do I write? I simply say, “Love songs for Jesus”. ~Jimmy R. Price
www.jimmyrprice.com
www.chuckhancock.com
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THE MEANEST MAN IN TEXAS by Brad Wilson Well in our last article we were saying that film production of our latest film “THE MEANEST MAN IN TEXAS” was about to begin. I’m thrilled to report that not only did it happen but in all of my years of filmmaking it was probably the best experience I’ve ever had making a film! God is good! What an AMAZING true story of God’s love and grace! What a redemption story! Don Umphrey wrote the book of the same name based on the true story of Clyde Thompson. I don’t want to give too much away if you have not read the book….but its good! We were thrilled to have Don and his great wife Kim join us on the set for a few days. There was not a dry eye in the house when Don was introduced on the set and all of the actors and crew applauded and gave him a standing ovation. He was very moved. Justin Ward did a truly amazing job not only co-writing the script with Don, but is one of the best directors I’ve had the privilege of working with. Tireless energy! Mateus Ward, who is one of the hottest up and coming actors in Hollywood played the lead role of Clyde Thompson. He is mesmerizing in his performance, and the transition he makes as Christ changes his life. The entire cast of 40 actors and all crew members stepped up and knocked this one out of the ball park! It’s not a pretty film at times. But it’s real and it’s true. It’s real life. It is our prayer that the unchurched will see this film and have the same miraculous change in their life that happened to Clyde. To that end we are thrilled to be partnering with World Bible School to help us spread the message, that the same way the Bible changed the life of “THE MEANEST MAN IN TEXAS” it can do the same for others. To all of you that prayed so very hard for us to get this film made, thank you! It is such an honor beyond description to have a ministry like ours at Higher Purpose Entertainment. As we always say, people we will never meet in this lifetime will see our films all over the world. What a blessing to do our best to spread the good news of Jesus Christ and help change lives! Can’t wait for the world to see it! Please visit our Facebook page to see more: www.facebook.com/themeanestmaninTexas. On the next page are a few memories from the filming.
Visit Brad Wilson and Higher Purpose Entertainment at: www.higherpurposeentertainment.com
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Location scouting prior to filming.
Rehearsing a scene just before the camera rolls.
Casey Bond, Brad Wilson, Don Umphrey on the set.
Mateus Ward, Brad Wilson, James Edwards mug for the camera between scenes.
Intensely watching a scene on the monitor being filmed.
The director and the great actor Jamie McShane (Capt. Colt) discussing a scene.
The gang working in the “yard”.
Production, Recording, Distribution, Compilations, Radio Promotion We are accepting tracks for our next compilation NOW! CALL US TODAY! (903) 566-3347 www.canyoncreekrecords.com We at Canyon Creek Records, Inc. and The Christian Servant Publishing Company, BMI, strive to help artists that believe with all their hearts that GOD has called them to use their talents for HIS glory. If being a Christian artist is your heart’s desire, then contact us at (903) 566-3347, or e-mail us at tommysmith4@juno.com. Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 27
Movers and Shakers of the Country Gospel Industry
Each month I try to introduce a DJ in our Country Gospel industry that is playing your music. Also most of them I write about are reporting to the Charts and Trade Magazines. This DJ has been doing this for as long as I can remember faithfully. Normally I like to write about them in my own words but when Grieg Mayberry sent me his bio I felt he told this story of failure mixed with great hope that I should let you read about him in his own words. So let me introduce to you Grieg Mayberry of KSTV Radio Stephenville, Texas. ~Tommy Smith
Grieg Mayberry KSTV Radio Stephenville, Texas In December of 1955, my dad was in the Army and stationed in Munich, Germany. At the time, my mother and nine year old sister, Nikki were with him. Well, the Lord decided I would make my appearance on the 27th, two days after Christmas. We lived there for the next two years before we all moved back to the United States. Shortly after arriving back in America, my little sister, Karan was born and five years later, my little brother, Bari was born. Notice how my younger siblings names are spelled non-traditional. Now let's look at my first name, Grieg....weird huh? It's pronounced, GREG. I do not answer to Greeg! There was a German composer named Edvard Grieg...thus my name, Grieg Edwin Mayberry. There's the first clue to this guy having a connection to music even at birth! In 1964, my dad retired as a Major in the US Army from Ft Sam Houston in San Antonio, TX. We then sold our house in San Antonio and moved to our 242 acre farm near Morgan Mill, TX. Those truly were some of the best years of my life. Maybe it's why I love to watch The Andy Griffith Show! So my oldest sister, Nikki got married right out of high school while my two younger siblings and me began our lives on this 242 acre farm...much different than living in the big city of San Antonio. Dad always had plenty of hard work to do like work the cattle, build a new barn and chicken coup, plant crops, gather vegetables from the garden, build fences, mend fences, etc. Now the one thing we hardly ever did was work on Sunday. Mom would not hear of it. We went to Morgan Mill Baptist Church each Sunday morning, Sunday night and Wednesday night. The only way we could skip church is if we had hay in the field that needed bailing and hauled to the barn before the rain came! She knew God was ok with that! I used to get a little resentful about having to work almost all the time but as I look back I realize what a blessing it was to work alongside my dad, a WWII and Korean War Veteran. He taught us kids so much about the value of a hard days work. Both my sisters played the piano. So especially during holidays, we would stand around the piano and sing for hours. My mother was the happiest and most fulfilled when her children were singing songs that glorified the Lord Jesus. So I grew up on the Baptist Hymnal. Mom would send kids off to the Baptist Camp each summer and during one of those adventures, I had a very close encounter with the Lord. I felt the Lord's calling on my life. Did I know what that calling was? No, not exactly. Continued on next page‌ Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 28
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All I knew was I wanted to follow Jesus and live my life in such a way that others would want to follow me to Him! I can remember coming back from Baptist Camp one summer and I asked mom if I could gather up the old Bibles in the house that no one was using and take them to our neighbors. She said well of course. So I rustled up about a half dozen Bibles, placed them in the basket on my bike and took off peddling! Our closest neighbor lived about a mile away. Well, the first house I came to was Jesse & Dysie Quarrels. Did you ever watch Green Acres? Anyway, when I saw a flock of chickens leaving their house I thought, this is gonna be interesting. The next thing I know I have this huge male turkey just flogging the fire out of me and knocked me off my bike! I left a Bible on their porch and then peddled like a crazy man leaving there. After that experience, I felt like maybe I did not hear the Lord correctly! But regardless, I had a real love for the Lord and a tender heart toward the things of God and His people. But when I reached high school, my spiritual life began to slip. I began to drink alcohol at the end of my sophomore year. By the time I was a junior in high school, I was smoking marijuana just about everyday. So I was known as a party animal. When I went to church with my parents, I was extremely good at wearing a mask. I would still sing specials when asked. I knew I was a hypocrite but as hypocrites do, they learn to justify their sin and rebellion. It wasn't until after football season my senior year that I signed up for choir. I loved choir and if I had it all to do over again I would have dropped football and signed up for choir. I received a #1 at state choir in Solo & Ensemble that year. I was so excited about the future! At the end of that year, my high school voted me, Most Representative. Now that was a real honor. I was sittin’ on cloud 9! That next year, the fall of 1974, I attended our local university, Tarleton State University. I was not ready to be exposed to so much party time. I remember pledging to one of the local fraternities and the one I chose had these keg parties every weekend and much of the time during the week. It was in May of 1975, police raided the house I was living in with several other students and we were busted for marijuana. To make a lengthy story a little shorter, I ended up in prison on a five year sentence. Needless to say, my mountain top feeling that I felt a year earlier, fell to about as low as a man can go. I hurt my parents deeply. I brought shame to our family name. I looked like the farthest thing from a Christian. It was one of the saddest times of my life. One Saturday there on the Ferguson Unit, it was Block A's turn to go to the gym. So I thought I could use a little time out of my cell and shoot a few baskets. There I was in this cold gym with nothin but more concrete and bricks when I heard the worst singing I’d heard in a long time. At one end of the gym was a little room with a line of guys waiting for their turn. So I asked them what this was all about. Well they told me the prison rodeo is in October and our unit had a band but no one could carry a tune in a bucket. So boldly I walked to the front of the line, asked for the mike and told them to play, Mama Tried by Merle Haggard. I sang half of the first verse and the Director stopped the musicians and announced, “auditions are over guys...we found us a singer!” Everyone was smiling at that point. So the Director, my new boss got me a job as a Trustee electrician. My life improved greatly from that point on. I look back now and see the hand of God on me and for that I am so very grateful. In the fall of 1982, I quit my job with a telephone contractor in Tyler Texas, sold my house on Lake Palestine, moved to Dallas and enrolled as a student at Christ For the Nations, a two year Bible College. While there, I tried out for their traveling group, Living Praise. We sang in a different church every weekend. We were invited to churches in many different denominations. It was a tremendous time to grow in the Lord and learn from the Body of Christ. We traveled all over America during spring break. In the spring of 1983, we went on an Asian tour to Hong Kong, the Philippines, Korea, Japan & China. I even got to smuggle Bibles into China. What a crazy, wonderful time we had. Continued on next page… Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 29
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I married a girl I met at CFNI in 1984. Lynn was a single mother with a 2 year old son, Jason. We had a son together, Christopher in 1986 and a daughter, Bethany in 1988. In 1987 I enrolled at Southwestern Assemblies of God College and later graduated in 1989 with a Bachelors in PME (pastor, missions, evangelism). In 1990 we moved to Bridgeport, WA where I pastored for 2 years. By 1993 we had moved back to Texas and I am very sad to say, divorced in 1994. Needless to say, by now I had experienced much joy but also much sadness. I've said it before and I am sticking to it...going through the divorce was much more painful than going to prison! In 1995 I moved back with my parents to help mom with dad. He was experiencing congestive heart failure. Dad died in June 1995. He was buried with full military honors. Dad never talked much about his experience in the military, especially the war. Those boys saw things that no human should ever have to see. It was his generation that set the Jews free from the horror of Adolph Hitler. 1999 was another glad-sad time. I met Mari Lea Rakevich and we were married April 3. We have a “blessed blended� family. She has a son and daughter, Nic & Shawna and I have a son and daughter, Chris & Bethany. In the 17 years we've been married, we've unofficially adopted some kids along the way. When Chris was in high school we took in a foreign exchange student from China...Chen Chen. The last night he was with us that year, he asked Jesus in to his heart and got gloriously saved. We haven't been able to get rid of him since! He calls us mom & dad and just love that boy so much. He has since graduated from college and lives and works near New York. We also took in a friend of Christopher's, Michael Rawls. Michael joined the army right out of high school. He made Soldier of the Year in 2007 at Ft Bragg! We're so proud of out kids! We now have two grandsons and two granddaughters with one granddaughter on the way in November. We are Nanny & Pappa and the family comes to our house for the holidays and we love every minute we get to spend with our extended family. Shortly after we got married, my oldest sister, Nikki, had a massive stroke and died at the age of 52. God is with us no matter what the circumstances are. Prior to getting remarried, in May of 1997, I went to work at KSTV 93.1 FM in Stephenville, TX. I was in sales. I sold airtime on our station. It was in 2001 around that awful time in American history when Islamic terrorists destroyed some 3000 American lives that I asked the owners of the station to let me have the Sunday Morning Gospel Show. I wanted to be the DJ. Well, they surprised me and said of course. No real training. Just go in that studio and give er a try. I never looked back. It's been so much fun. Hosting that show for the past 15 years has been a learning time for sure. Then in 2012, I received my first nomination by the ICMA and MLG PROMOTIONS. Since 2012, I have been nominated a total of 4 times by the ICMA. Each time it's such a blessing. Getting the privilege to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ week after week through gospel music that is primarily country is something the Lord has prepared me for since I was that young country boy growing up on that little farm in North Central Texas. Due to a spinal disease called Anklosing Spondilitis, I went on disability in April 2010. I kept doing my show each Sunday but no longer sold advertising. So I am still working part time at KSTV. I am so thankful for my opportunity to share the gospel message in song with my hometown. God is so good, all the time. You can listen to my show each Sunday from 8am-9:30am CST at www.kstvfm.com
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Dysfunctional Family Christmas: The Serenity Prayer For The Holidays by Karla Downing
Dysfunctional family Christmas' can be difficult, making the Serenity Prayer a perfect tool. Holidays bring up memories of hurts, loss, pain, and bad times. Holidays also come with expectations for the perfect loving moments with family. If you have a difficult relationship, the holidays will force you to deal with that relationship in some way. You may have to spend time with a difficult loved one or extended family. You may have to spend your holidays without seeing a loved one. You may be dealing with stressful financial, health, or relationship issues. Or, you may be spending your holiday alone due to a divorce. The Serenity Prayer (believed to have been written and delivered in a sermon in 1943 by Reinhold Niebuhr, an ordained pastor in the Evangelical Church) offers a simple solution for whatever difficult relationship situations you are dealing with during this holiday season. It reads:
GOD GRANT ME THE SERENITY TO ACCEPT THE THINGS I CANNOT CHANGE, COURAGE TO CHANGE THE THINGS I CAN, AND THE WISDOM TO KNOW THE DIFFERENCE. Let's break down the Serenity Prayer to see what it is saying: 1. You are asking God to grant you serenity. Getting a grant requires action on your part. 2. You need to do something to become "serene." One of the definitions of "serene" is "to be marked by utter calm and tranquility." Another is "to be clear and free of storms or unpleasant change." 3. So the key is learning how to be serene. How does one become serene? Simply by accepting the things you cannot change. Acceptance brings instant calmness into your life. You prevent the storms and turmoil that are the result of trying to force change or from trying to fight reality. When we are not accepting the things we cannot change and instead wanting them to be different, we have the opposite of peace and tranquility; we have volatility, dysfunction, impulsivity, unrest, anger, and all kinds of troublesome emotions. 4. You also need the courage to change the things you can. This gives you power over your life, rather than keeping you feeling victimized by others. When you take the initiative to make the changes you can make, it will give you peace. 5. Why does it take wisdom to know the difference? Because people, relationships, and situations are complicated and get more complicated with addictions, dysfunction, divorce, stepfamilies, financial problems, mental illness, and other problems. "Wisdom" is the ability to discern what is right. God grants us wisdom when we ask for it. Continued on next page‌ Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 31
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So how can you apply the Serenity Prayer to make your holidays happier and calmer? You ask God to help you accept people, places, and things as they are. You stop wishing they were different for today. You stop figuring out how to make them different. You accept all the people in your life for who they are. You then look at yourself and see what you can do for yourself to make the holidays better, and then-you do it. This may mean not spending time with your family, leaving the family party when things get uncomfortable, saying no to things you don't want to do, letting go of guilt for not pleasing people, doing what you like to do instead of what you have to do, and stepping back from family drama by not getting involved. You don't have to have a dysfunctional family Christmas. God is waiting to grant you serenityall you have to do is ask, accept, and act. Karla Downing www.ChangeMyRelationship.com karla@changemyrelationship.com .............................. Next, if you need more practical tips and Biblical truths to help you change your relationships, get my FREE "15-Day Relationship Challenge" designed to give you back the power over your life. Just click here: http://www.Free15dayChallenge.com .............................. Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com
Volume 35 Volume 35
A Preacher With A Song, Ministry With Experience
www.mikeleichner.com From the heart of a Marine, thank you DJs and fans for spinning, listening and charting at number 16, my latest release on Canyon Creek Records Volume 35 and Gospel Jukebox Volume 35. May God continue to bless America!
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COUNTRY GOSPEL MUSIC The Baker Family Whenever Anna and I attend Country Gospel Award shows or Conventions it is always a blessing for us to see and hear our old friends as they perform nightly. It also gives us a chance to hear and meet all the new young talented artists that are using their gifts to honor and glorify Christ. I would like to share with all of you my take on just how talented and anointed some of these artists are. Let’s start with the young “Baker Family”. This family group has it all. They play their instruments, have outstanding lead vocals and harmony, but most of all their stage presence is as professional as it gets. I watched the audience watching them as their eyes were glued to that stage until the group’s performance was over. The group consists of oldest son Trustin, 17 yrs. old, younger brother Elijah, 12 yrs. old, sister Carina, 15 yrs old and mother Carrie Baker who looks like she’s 18 yrs. old. I would not and did not ask her age, I know better. Dad, Shawn is the group’s manager and head priest of his household. Oldest son Trustin plays Fiddle, Banjo, and also sings lead Vocals. He is extremely talented in all those areas including harmony. Daughter Carina plays Mandolin, sings lead Vocals, and harmony. This young lady has tremendous stage charisma. Rhythm just pours out of her body while she is singing. Then a little Bluegrass Jig starts in her feet and the next thing you know she is doing some fancy foot work that will make you get out of your seat and shout for more. Brother Elijah at 12 yrs. old will capture your heart. This young man is a real trooper and you can tell even at that age that he takes it all seriously. He plays Upright Bass, sings lead Vocals and also joins in on the harmony. The backbone of the group is Carrie. She is the groups Guitar picker, as well as lead Vocals and harmony. She is also Mom and takes care of her precious family. The Baker Family took home the ICGMA award for “Bluegrass Artists of the year 2016” and were up against awesome competition like The Roys, Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, The Isaacs, and Marty Raybon. I wish that every young family in America could see and hear this group. They are a fine example that when a family prays together they stay together and can do all things for the glory of God.
Tommy Brandt II Tommy Brandt II has turned out to be a very dedicated young man using his talent to follow in the footsteps of his father Tommy Brandt Livingston and his mother Michelle, who have worked tirelessly to lead the lost to Christ using every gift and resource that God has given them so they can do so. Continued on next page… Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 33
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I have watched Tommy II ever since he was a very young child trying to be a part of his parents’ ministry. Like all kids he could be a ham sometimes but most of the time he was very shy. He traveled with Tommy and Michelle on their bus, which has been his home since I can remember. This year I saw a young man at the ICGMA’s 60th Annual Award Show step out and be his own man. He not only played his guitar licks like a pro but his personality has blossomed into a very outgoing easy to talk to gifted artist. He has it all. The entire package, the looks, the ability to make a guitar sing and I must say he is quite a good singer himself. Most of all he has a true heart to serve God. I believe in some ways he has already paid the price and is still willing to continue to pay the price to carry the Cross. My spirit of discernment tells me that if Tommy Brandt II continues to grow in Christ and learns more and more from the Guitar mentors that we have in this Country Gospel music field, like Doyle Dykes for example, who can play any style of music on his guitar and play it perfect, he’ll become the best guitar player he can be, not only for his own satisfaction but to the satisfaction of Christ. It is a blessing to see a young man or young lady these days, not only serve Christ, but also honor their Mother and Father and Tommy Brandt II does just that.
Shirley Carter What a real pleasure it was for me to meet Shirley and her husband Jim at the ICGMA Award show in August. This lady has a powerfully strong, soulful voice. You only have to listen to her singing and watch her on the stage for a few minutes and you’ll know she is a Pro that has been at this for a long time. Shirley has been singing since she was a small child. The name Carter ought to ring a bell if you are and have been a Country music fan very long. She is a direct descendent of Maybelle Carter. Shirley’s father is Roy Carter of the Chuck Wagon Gang. Now those are just two of the most well-known Country acts in the business since the 40’s. Shirley sang on the road a lot with her dad and family while growing up. She’s not only worked with, but has maintained a great friendship with some of the biggest Country stars ever to hit the Grand Ole Opry or the Country music industry. They say that behind every good man is a good woman. Many times behind a good woman is a good man that is willing to share their mates ministry of music as well as being dedicated servants and partners for Christ. You don’t have to be around Shirley’s husband Jim Harlan very long to know that he stands behind her in all that she does. He is quick to minister to anyone at anytime and tell them about the grace of Jesus. Jim is a criminal attorney in north Texas and he will tell you Jesus is the only cure for the huge crime rate our Country is facing. He will tell you that the “Ten Commandments” should be on the courtroom walls and every public building in America. They are the answer to cutting back on crime. To learn more about Shirley and Jim visit Shirley’s website and photo gallery at www.shirleycartergospel.com. Also take time to listen to Shirley’s latest Gospel release to radio “I’m Bound For That City”.
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Walt Mills Mr. Country Gospel Music himself, Walt Mills, was at the ICGMA’s 60th Anniversary Award Show. Walt has been an active member of the ICGMA since it’s early beginnings. He was such a blessing to see and hear. You could tell he and his wife Betty were having a wonderful time visiting with old friends. One of the things that really caught my attention was that when Walt started singing, all of the artists back stage stopped talking and most started singing the words to his songs right along with him. This normally doesn’t happen. The reason it happened in Walt’s case is the choice of songs he writes and records. He picks songs that reach you and make you feel good about Christ. His lyrics are always about Christ. Most of the time when other artists gets up to sing at these Award shows the talking backstage continues and no one seems to know the song that is being performed unless your are a DJ. The same thing has been happening for the last 20 yrs. in the secular Country music industry. Most people couldn’t tell you the name of the artist or the title of the song or what it is about unless it is one of the top five songs for the year. It would do us good to pay more attention to artists like Walt Mills and learn from them. He has lasted through more decades of singing Country Gospel Music and ministering the word of God than most of us will ever be able to accomplish. I’ll also leave this thought with you, that the greats in our industry are not ashamed of the name of Jesus and still believe it is He who has the power to win the lost, not a hidden message or the mentality of “look at me I’m just a good ole boy like you”. The lost want to see a changed man or woman who realizes his or her life wasn’t right and confesses that out of their mouth. Jesus, Only Jesus saves and renews the spirit. Thank you Walt and Betty for being there. I for one was blessed by your kind and joyful spirit.
Felicia DeRamus - Paul This young lady stole the show at the ICGMA 60th Award Show. I have known her and her parents for about 18 years now and the whole family is very talented. Felicia is like her mother Judy, gifted. Their voices are as clear as bells, on pitch at all times, and full of heart. That’s right, heart. I know that sounds old fashioned but when you sing about Jesus or even a beautiful love song, it should come straight from the heart. Felicia is “music”. When you hear and watch her perform a song you know she was born to sing. You know she was called to be a performer. It is in the genes. It is a very special gift given to her by God. She posts videos from time to time of her singing and I’m always amazed at how good she sounds, no matter the style. We need young artists like this in our industry to help bring this world back to a kinder and more beautiful place. Young people that don’t just talk about Christ but that you can see Christ in them. This is true in the case of Felicia. I don’t really know her husband yet, but I pray that he will be behind her all the way, urging her to use her talents as her mother and father have done for years. They have spent their lives being soul winners. Felicia has the power of Christ in her to do the same. Check her videos out on YouTube and I think you will agree. It was good to see you and be able to hear you perform again, Felicia.
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Tina Wakefield It was the first time for Tina Wakefield and her husband Houston to attended the ICGMA Award Show. Their booth was right across from mine and we visited a lot. They both have a great sense of humor and are fun to fellowship with. Tina is a true Country Gospel singer. Her style of music is the kind that all real Country music lovers love. It comes natural to her because she has lived in the country all of her life. To sing about Christ also comes naturally. Her dad is a preacher in her hometown of Alabaster, Alabama. Tina has released three CD’s and all of them are great. Her latest single release of “Jesus Take A Hold” has gone to number one in the Christian Servant Magazine’s “Country For The Good Life” Top 100 chart as well as Cashbox Magazine’s “Country Christian Top 100” and The Christian Voice “Top 100 Country Gospel” chart for October 2016. The song has not only done well in the Country Gospel field but has also crossed over to many of the Southern Gospel Stations. Her songwriting is excellent and her singing style is superb. If you are a Country Gospel music fan I would advise you to check out her website and sample her music. Have your checkbook ready because once you listen you will want to purchase all three CD’s. Once again God has two awesome soul winners in Tina and Houston Wakefield. http://www.tinawakefield.com.
Doris Merritt Being a board member of the ICGMA I usually know about a lot of the things that are going to take place each year at the Convention. The one thing that is kept secret is the final vote count by you the member in each of the award categories. Dan Duncan, his wife Marilyn and his church team help tally the votes and they keep it a surprise until the award show. I must say I was totally surprised when Doris Merritt took home the Female Vocalist of the Year 2016 Award. Doris and her husband Mike work as a Country Gospel Duo act. Neither of them had a clue that she would take that award home. She was shocked when the nominees were read and her name was called out as the winner of that category. This tells me that the fans and members have paid close attention this year and voted for those who are extremely talented, dedicated to serving Christ, and being the best witness that they can be for Him as they share their Gospel music with the world. That description is Doris Merritt and I for one was very proud for her, knowing that she truly deserved that kind of recognition from the people in this industry. Her and Mike are a great team and I know that Mike was so very proud for Doris when she walked out on that stage and accepted that Award. As a DJ I can tell you my audience loves their music. As a friend I love their heart for Christ. All of us here at Christian Servant Magazine congratulate you Doris and we want you to know we are proud for you. Continued on next page… Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 36
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Kristi Miller All of us like to be recognized by others going through life making new friends and trying to fit in this group or that group. For some it is easy. For others it can be difficult. Kristi Miller’s video “They Know Me Here” is all about those that have a hard time getting noticed and having to latch on to someone who is very popular so they can fit in. The story in the song is great and like real life. The ending couldn’t be better. You see what should be important to us all is that Christ knows us because it is with Him and our loved ones in Heaven that we will be spending eternity. The cliques and clans on this earth are not important. Having Christ as your best friend is important. Kristi sings and acts out the part in this video like the pro that she is. She is extremely talented not only as a singer, songwriter but also a screenwriter and actress. This is why she was honored with the prestigious ICGMA 2016 Video of the Year Award. If you have not seen the video just Google it up and watch it on YouTube. Congratulations Kristi.
Terry Davis The old saying “nice guys finish last” has been proven wrong by Terry Davis. He is the recipient of the 2016 ICGMA Male Vocalist of the Year Award. You would be hard pressed to find anyone nicer or more giving than Terry. He is a motivator and mentor to his friends. He is always there to help out anyone in anyway that he can. Terry writes all of his own material and has not had a song that he has released to radio that has not made it to the top five if not number one in many of the industry charts. He well deserves this award. This is just one way that the industry has of saying that we are so proud to have him out there working to bring people to Christ. We are also very proud to be able to give him the recognition that he has earned of being one of the most talented people in the Country Gospel Music industry today. Thanks Terry Davis for being the Christian inspiration that you are.
ICGMA Convention One of the highlights of the ICGMA this time, as it celebrated it’s 60th year, lead to the gathering of many friends that a lot of us have come to know and love. We had a chance to meet some of the legends of our craft. Bruce Haynes, Gene Reasoner & Benny Wood making up the group White River was there. Greg Day, Walt Mills, Billy Hale and so many more that have made the ICGMA the oldest and longest lasting Christian Convention and Music Award ceremony in America showed up. Founder Billy Holcomb came and celebrated with us. He sang a number or two and was tremendous. You could feel the anointing in the place. I hope everyone took notice that he is in his eighties and still has a great voice. You’re never too old to praise Christ with the gift He gave you. If you make it about Him, He in return will make sure your talent shines. Continued on next page… Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 37
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Glorya and Roger Whitaker also attended and all of us were proud to see them both. As most of you know Glorya was married to D. J. Bob Wilson who was a big part of the ICGMA until his death. Bob and Glorya started the AgapeFest in Texas and also Kingcountry.org one of the most listened to Country Gospel Radio Stations in Texas. Bob was also one of the pioneers that helped make the Country Gospel Music field what it is today. God brought Roger and Glorya together and they are working hard to keep God’s word alive through their music ministry. It was good to see Doug and Judy DeRamus again and as always to hear Judy sing. Judy is and always will be one of the greats in our industry. One of the originals of the ICGMA could not attend this year and he was truly missed, W. C. Taylor helped make the ICGMA what it is. He later started his own organization “Country Gospel Music Guild” in Mississippi but never failed to attend the ICGMA ceremony’s for many more years. I was also impressed of the coming together of the other organizations that attended and helped us celebrate our 60th. Ralph and Dianne Parten along with Stephen Rew of “Power Source Magazine and the ICM Awards”. Randall Wilds owner of “Christian Voice Magazine and the annual Gospel Music Fan Fair Awards” held in Kentucky each year was also in attendance. Not to forget Billy Hale who is always at our conventions and it’s a real honor to us to have him. He is the owner of one of the largest attended Christian Music Award shows in America and Canada, the “Country Gospel Music Association”. Please do not get offended if I have left your name out of this article as you know there were at least a hundred and fifty artists and industry leaders there. The ICGMA would like to thank Mary James and Terry and Debra Luna for coming all the way to West Plains, MO. from California to attend. This was a first for Mary James and we were proud to have her there, as always Terry and Debra. Before I close I would like to make note that Gene Watson has a brand new release to Country Gospel Radio titled “Help Me”. Tim Atwood and Mandy Barnett also have a brand new single to Country Gospel Radio “Let’s Go Down To The River”. Former Columbia recording artist Judy Bailey has a new release “Ten Shiny Pennies”. Judy, if you recall, had a Top 10 hit as a duo with Moe Bandy in the 80’s on the song “Following The Feeling”. You will also find more great new releases on Canyon Creek Records Volume 37 by Arkin Terrell, Sandy Dickie, Ron Hughes, Matt Carroll and Family, Rene’ Jones, Allen Frizzell, Julie Reese, Danny Ray Harris, and Tommy Horton. D J’s if you have not received this compilation, please contact Canyon Creek Records and ask for Volume 37. You can email tommysmith4christ@juno.com or call us at:
(903) 566-3347 We also have a site that is just for radio media to download our comps. Give us a call and we will be glad to give you the website address and code to be able to do that. That’s it until our next issue. Know that God loves you and I love you. Tommy Smith PS. Check the following pages for winners in all categories at the 60th Annual ICGMA Convention held in West Plains, Missouri August 4th, 5th, and 6th. Continued on next page… Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 38
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ICGMA 2016 WINNERS
FEMALE HORIZON ARTIST Gena Roberts Hamilton
MALE HORIZON ARTIST Rodney Morss
FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR Doris Merritt
MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR Terry Davis
GOLDCROSS FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR Mary Faye Jackson
GOLDCROSS MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR Tommy Brandt
CROSSOVER ARTIST OF THE YEAR Chris Golden
DUO OF THE YEAR McKay Project
GROUP OF THE YEAR Reed Brothers
BAND OF THE YEAR Kevin Rowe & The Prodigal Sons
INSTRUMENTALIST OF THE YEAR Brad Allen
SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR James Payne Continued on next page…
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Dan Duncan Singer
James Payne Songwriter
SONG OF THE YEAR Take This Bible - Dan Duncan
PROMOTER OF THE YEAR Terry Beene
ICGMA AWARD OF EXCELLENCE Joy Roberts
ALBUM OF THE YEAR Crossover Chuck Hancock
VIDEO OF THE YEAR They Know Me Here Kristi Miller
PRODUCER OF THE YEAR Tommy Smith
TV SHOW OF THE YEAR Music City Show Jim Sheldon
BOB WILSON RADIO PERSONALITY Micah McCarley
RADIO STATION OF THE YEAR Heaven’s Country Marty Smith
BLUEGRASS ARTIST OF THE YEAR Baker Family
COMEDIAN OF THE YEAR Bob Courtney “Pastor Pudge”
Music Evangelist Award Walt Mills Continued on next page…
Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 40
Continued from previous page.
Broadcast Media Award - TCT Network
LIVING LEGEND AWARD Mike Manuel and Del Way
Print Media Award Christian Voice Magazine - Randall Wilds
President's Award Billy Holcomb
Joe Paul Nichols Lifetime Achievement Award Psalm 100 Buddy & Ina Gore
Hall of Fame Inductees
Jimmie Snow, Greg Day, Bruce Haynes
Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 41
This is our last issue of 2016. Keeping in mind that in the following few months the holiday season is upon us, we here at Christian Servant Magazine wish all of you a wonderful Thanksgiving and miraculous Christmas holiday. But most of all… REMEMBER:
JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON! Have a blessed New Year! See you in 2017!
Christian Servant Magazine a division of Christian Servant Outreach Ministry, Inc. A 501(c)(3) Non Profit Organization Publisher: Christian Servant Outreach Ministry, Inc. Editor in Chief: Tommy Smith Creative Director: Anna Smith Design Director & Digital Director: Rhonda Hamilton Address all Editorial, Business and Production Inquiries to: Christian Servant Magazine, 15661 Hwy 64 E.,Tyler, TX. 75707 • (903) 566-3347 For Sponsorship Information contact: Tommy Smith • (903) 566-3347 • or Email: tommysmith4@juno.com www.christianservantoutreachministry.com • www.christianservantradio.com • www.christianservantmagazine.com Copyright © 2015 Christian Servant Outreach Ministry, Inc. dba Christian Servant Magazine • ALL RIGHTS RESERVED All articles are copyrighted and may not be reprinted or published without the express written permission of: Christian Servant Magazine, 15661 Hwy 64 E.,Tyler, TX. 75707 Christian Servant Magazine - Edition IV, 2016 - Page 42