Real lives
FACING Death, BUT KNOWING LIFE
Real lives
Norfolk journalist, Sandie Shirley, spotlights the inspiring stories of men and women from the region and beyond that have seen them reach for victory. For more stories visit Facebook: Refreshing Waters Christian Media.
M
att McChlery is a remarkable man with a rich heritage as a songwriter, who has looked death in the face to overcome and understand more about the essence of a living faith. His story of hope for life over death will be sung with personal conviction in his new composition: ‘Hallelujah, Christ is Risen’, due for release this Easter. It recalls the compelling love of a man who lived 2,000 years ago to beat the fear of the dark, showing a pathway of light and belief when nailed on a rustic wooden cross. Matt has walked the waters of trust and faith to combat cancer and turn challenges into opportunities. The award-winning musician and former primary school teacher is also a member of the Association of Christian Writers’ ‘Brecks and Pens’ group near Downham Market. And his great, great, great grandfather wrote the Victorian hymn: ‘Onward Christian Soldiers.’ Matt, an author and pastor from Wisbech, was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma nearly six years ago. He was just 36 with a wife and young family when he heard the bleak hospital report. That dark time spurred him on to write a blog detailing his journey from diagnosis to remission two years later. His chronicles have inspired nations, while he achieved a ‘finalist’ position for a national blog award. Matt was born in Zimbabwe and at 41 is something of a veteran songwriter, after penning his first composition at just 15. He has also taught himself the guitar and plays hand drums. Sustained and encouraged by his faith, his songs have always
Photo Credit: Summmer Love Photography
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reflected a gospel signpost for others. They have been heard and sung in churches, communities and aired on worldwide radio stations, as well as a few seasonal TV programmes. Matt also plays renditions of other worship songs, but his influential talent takes on a different spin when he’s invited to perform at coffee shops or festivals — singing recognisable cover songs from the radio such as Coldplay and Adele. “The lyrics still carry something that will point people towards God,” says Matt, who is also a live performer, worship leader, speaker, and tutor. He also uses social media, YouTube and his website to further extend his message. In the throes of death, he says: “I learnt God was with me. He was carrying me and fighting for me. I am weak, I am not strong, but I knew I was safe in Jesus’ hands whatever happened, and he has been my strength.” mattmcchlery.com
