“In times like these, it”s so easy to lose perspective, to get our eyes on everything that seems to be falling apart,” said Mike Weaver, lead singer of Big Daddy Weave, the contemporary Christian band that will perform at Rent Auditorium in Columbus April 10.
The group known for songs like “Every Time I Breathe,” “Fields of Grace” and “What Life Would Be Like” will wrap their music around a message of hope and encouragement in the 6:30 p.m. concert, part of their “Love Come to Life” tour. They will be joined on stage by American Idol season six finalist Chris Sligh and the band Luminate.
“This will be the second time the United Methodist Men”s Concert Series has hosted Big Daddy Weave,” said event co-organizer Andy Tentoni of Columbus. “They drew the largest crowd we”ve had so far, more than 1,100, four years ago. … They are as down to earth and sincere in their work as anyone and supportive of what we do as a UMM group.”
A helping hand
United Methodist Men”s mission is to “Stand in the Gap” — helping with seemingly small details that make a significant difference. Whether it”s thousands of man hours spent in response to Hurricane Katrina, donating hundreds of mosquito nets in Africa, or Angel Food boxes to Trinity Place in Columbus, the work is meaningful. The group has also supported Bible distribution to troops abroad and awarded $2,000 college scholarships each of the past four years.
In bringing popular contemporary Christian music to Rent, UMM will create an evening of fellowship, as well as good music. The concert is underwritten by sponsors, so proceeds directly benefit the group”s many projects.
“Even the volunteers working the concert buy their own tickets because we know how important and needed our work is,” Tentoni remarked.
A special guest
Already, one special story related to the concert has unfolded. A young boy from Jackson, autistic and diabetic, called Tentoni to inquire about tickets when he discovered his favorite band, Luminate, would be in Columbus. After learning more of the family”s story, organizers have arranged a special meeting for them with the band.
“The father was sincerely thankful and told us how we are now his church family away from home; isn”t that what it”s all about?” Tentoni asked.
Of Big Daddy Weave”s own partnership with World Vision, a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization, and UMM”s outreach, Weaver said, “We just want to let Jesus live through us, to demonstrate his love for us. He calls us to things that are bigger than ourselves, to step out of ourselves.”
Purchase tickets for $10 in advance at the First United Methodist Church office at 602 Main Street, or purchase them for $15 at the door. For more information, contact Tentoni at 662-352-1844.
Jan Swoope is the Lifestyles Editor for The Commercial Dispatch.
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