Not A Flashback Friday

Today I am not presenting a flashback on a CCM artist, but kind of doing a flashback to a song. This is not a CCM song, but rather a famous gospel song that could be considered a hymn.  In 1973, Bill and Gloria Gather wrote and released "The Church Triumphant." 

Here is a live performance by the Gaither Trio from 1991 at the Reader's Choice Awards...

So what is the significance of presenting this song? Well, as it was written in 2 Corinthians 5:17 "The old has gone, the new is here!"... Let me share the words of Michael W. Smith:

The Covid 19 pandemic has taken its toll on all areas of society and the church is no exception. The vital routines and rituals of worship and fellowship—everything from “passing the plate” to potluck dinners—have been embargoed by the virus. For many who live alone, the church has been a reliable place of connecting with others. The pandemic has only compounded their loneliness.

Through all of the adversity of 2020, and its impact on the church, God still has a people. He has always had a people. Whether they occupy the pew or the pulpit, our sense as Christian and Gospel artists is they could really use a rallying cry to lift their spirits and build resolve to be the people of God. As many churches are starting to re-open their doors to in-person worship, we think the timing could not be better.

The very nature of pastoring is intimate and personal – the opposite of social distancing. Many pastors are very discouraged, lonely, and, according to various reports many have left the pastorate while others are on the verge of doing so.

In the early 1970’s, we saw firsthand how a song titled, "The Church Triumphant," brought millions to their feet as they were reminded of God’s faithfulness to build His church irrespective of the circumstances of the day, or the whims of the age. It is our desire that we revive this powerful song as an anthem for the church as she gathers once again in sanctuaries and screens across the US and beyond.

Christ’s church has always faced difficulty with hope and resolve. And often with a song. To encourage God’s people, especially Pastors and Leaders, some of the most respected recording artists in Christian music have come together to offer this re-imagined anthem for 2021. Many artists have joined with Michael to sing this new anthem. 

Church Triumphant 2021 debuts Friday, January 8 on TBN (8, 9, 10, 11pm Eastern).  This one-hour special debuts the Church Triumphant video, featuring Mandisa, Toby Mac, Mac Powell (formerly of Third Day), Francesca Battistelli, Joel Smallbone (of for King & Country), Natalie Grant, Michael Tate (of DC Talk & Newboys fame), Sandi Patty, Gaither Vocal Band, and many more joining with Michael W. Smith. The song will be available on YouTube to share beginning Sunday, January 10th. Find out more info on the Church Triumphant website.

After a year like this, we need something reminding all of God’s family that His Church is alive and well and I am anxious to hear how this song is being renewed.