London meeting of prayer and fasting for Christian music

THE FIRST ever National Day Of Prayer And Fasting for Christian music is to take place in January. Everyone involved in Christian music ministry: musicians, industry personnel, pastors and fans are being called together for a special time of prayer and fasting. The focal point for the day will be a meeting to be held on Saturday, 22nd January 1994 at the New Testament Assembly Church in Tooting, London SW17.

The idea for the day was initiated by Marcia Dixon, Religious Editor of weekly newspaper the Voice and columnist for Cross Rhythms. Because she had a specific concern for gospel music in the African and Caribbean churches initial plans for the day were organised with the help of Juliet Fletcher from the African Caribbean Evangelical Alliance. But following a meeting with Ian Traynar of The CMA Trust, Aad Vermeyden of AS Management, Tim Cobham of The Cobham Agency, Tony Cummings and Chris Cole of Cross Rhythms, Les Moir of Kingsway and David Bruce of Nelson Word it was decided to broaden the scope of the day to relate to all forms of Christian music.

Major prayer points for the day are: that Christians will use their talents more effectively: there will be healing of relationships between people in the Christian music scene; there will be a greater understanding of the ministry of music amongst church leaders and lay persons; God will anoint and inspire afresh Christian artistes; and that Christians will have a greater impact within the whole realm of music and the arts.

Christians and churches who will not be able to attend the London meeting are being urged to fast and pray for Christian music ministry.

The London meeting will comprise of two sessions: 3-5pm for practitioners in the field and 7.30pm for a special service of prayer and praise. The keynote speaker will be Joel Edwards, UK Development Director of the Evangelical Alliance. Music ministry is a subject close to Edward's heart, during the 70s Joel was a member of early gospel pioneers Kainos whose ranks also included Bazil Meade, today the director of top choir LCGC.

Juliet Fletcher for ACEA said, "Whether or not you are able to make the London meeting, we would ask Christians to set aside time to fast - miss that lunch or dinner - and ask God to do something really special in the area of Christian music ministry." The Scripture theme for the day is 'If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their sinful way, then I will hear from heaven and forgive their sin and heal their lands" 2 Chronicles 7v14. Tickets will be allocated to the London meeting although entry is free. Enquiries please call ACEA on 071 582 0228.