A Roger Jones Christmas!

We received this email from Katie, who used to be a member of staff here at the CMM office:

He's better than Santa isn't he ?!!

Just to report that
Coughton School sang four of Roger's Christmas songs in their Carol Service on 11 and 12 Dec - conducted by yours truly. They were really enthusiastic, and I expect their parents will be sick and tired of "Sheep" by the time Christmas Day arrives. Lots of people were moved to tears by "High up on a Hillside", especially the staff, (and not 'cos it was bad!), and one little girl informed my Mum this week that her favourite was "Come see the beauty of the King" because it had really lovely words and wonderful music. Mum was so surprised, as she expected an 8 year old to like "Sheep" or "Hush, hush" best. Those kids are really thoughtful and they do take on board everything you say......

We also went to Kettering Methodist Church's performance of The Inn Crowd on Sunday - with orchestra (not backing track) and they even had bassoon and cor anglais (which did the opening to No 4 instead of a horn). They did the narration, but were in full costume, with dancers and a decent-sized choir from the circuit. They even had 6 Wise Men (impossible I hear you cry - there can't be six wise men in Kettering!!) - three old blokes from the choir to sing No 8, and 3 fully-costumed young lads to kneel at the manger and look cute. It was nice to listen to someone else. Sam, Debbie, Mary and Joe were all very good (and my Joe behaved himself well in the audience), and Debbie had a good go at the descant. I did apologise to her afterwards for writing it!!

Anyway, Mum went to a concert of The Circle Singers in Alcester on Sat evening conducted by Beresford King-Smith, and even that had "Love came down at Christmas" in it.

If Roger isn't careful he'll turn into John Rutter, and be wheeled out every Christmas even by snobby classical choirs!

Lots of love

Katie xxxx

Another evening at St John's

Now we are in the season of advent, so that means it's time for CMM to lead another evening at St. John's - the Anglican convent which has been Helen's home for the last 3 years, and hugely supportive of our ministry.

Unfortunately this year, Roger and Mary couldn't make it to the evening themselves, so that left Annie and Helen to lead it, ably assisted by Pat Woolridge.

The sisters had been studying Paula Gooder's Advent book "The Meaning is in the Waiting", which is based around the four advent candles representing the patriarchs, the prophets, John the Baptist and Mary. So using Roger's musical Snakes and Ladders and some other bits and pieces, we structured the evening around that.

So if you're wondering how on earth it would work:

Setting the scene: I waited patiently for the Lord (from Simeon)
In the beginning (S&L)

Patriarchs: Father Abraham (S&L), In my dreams (S&L)

Prophets: Engraved upon my palms (S&L)

John the Baptist: Because of the tender mercy of our God (S&L)

Mary: The angel Gabriel from heaven came (not one of Roger's!)
Thorns in the straw (by Graham Kendrick)

Then we used the character of John the Baptist to point forwards to Jesus' death using the song Behold the Lamb (Angel Voices)

To finish: In the Beginning was the word (S&L)
Come thou Long Expected Jesus (trad)

CMM Christmas Newsletters

Hi Folks – here are our personal Christmas newsletters from Christian Music Ministries:

POPPY’S PAGES - Jones Family Newsletter – yes, she’s written this year’s as well!
http://www.cmm.org.uk/downloads/newsletters/12-08-pp.pdf

CMM NEWS & EVENTS – inc. Diary, ROCK DVD & Tour, etc
http://www.cmm.org.uk/downloads/newsletters/12-08-cmmnews.pdf

ANNIE’S CHRISTMAS NEWS
http://www.cmm.org.uk/downloads/newsletters/12-08-ar.pdf

HELEN’S CHRISTMAS NEWS
http://www.cmm.org.uk/downloads/newsletters/12-08-hg.pdf

You should be able to open each one with Adobe Acrobat reader. (If there’s a problem try right clicking and “save as”.) Do let us know if you’d like us to send “hard copies” through the post.

Don’t forget that you can help support CMM at no cost to yourself by using EASYFUNDRAISING:
http://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/

and EASYSEARCH:
http://cmm.easysearch.org.uk/


From all of us at CMM – have a really lovely Christmas and a peaceful New Year.

Bless you all!

Roger (Jones)

www.cmm.org.uk
0121 783 3291

Rock Christmas Party

Last night, most of the members of the Rock touring party gathered at CMM for our Christmas party. After a bit of time socialising and eating nibbles we crammed into Roger's lounge in front of the TV to watch the DVD. This was the first opportunity for most people to see the DVD, and much hilarity ensued.

We're really pleased with how the DVD has turned out. If you'd like one, please visit the CMM online shop

Christmas performances

I see from the 'Your Performances' section that quite a lot of people are well into their Christmas musical performances. If you know of any more please let us know.

I hope and pray they all go really well - God bless you.

December 2008

Roger's latest email has gone out:

Dear Friends

We have now completed ROCK Tour One, and it has been wonderfully successful, with tremendous response from local choirs and audiences. You can read more on our ROCK “Blog” at: http://rockthemusical.blogspot.com/ and further reports will be added later. We praise God for how he has guided and blessed us, and really look forward to resuming touring after Christmas!

Of course, I have already started “Tasters” for Tour Two – see our diary: http://www.cmm.org.uk/downloads/cmmdiary.pdf

The ROCK DVD, recorded for the UK Entertainment Channel, is due to be released within the next few days. You can pre-order now, in time for Christmas: http://www.cmm.org.uk/products/catalogue/index.php?newproducts=1 and also get Devon Brown’s great album HOW SWEET THE NAME.

Talking of Christmas, did you know you can seriously help CMM whilst doing your Christmas shopping? By joining EASYFUNDRAISING and making us your cause, you can go to all your favourite sites and yet earn a commission for CMM at the same time. It won’t cost you a penny extra. Please consider this – over 50 of our supporters already help us in this way. Go to: http://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/

Also, by joining EASYSEARCH you can help us with every “click”: http://cmm.easysearch.org.uk/ I hope to be in touch again soon with our Christmas Newsletter – it’s still to be written.

Bless you all!

Roger

The tour is over

All members of CMM have now returned from the first tour of Rock. It was a fantastic time that God blessed in amazing ways. Keep your eyes on the Rock blog as I gradually add reports from the tour.

http://rockthemusical.blogspot.com/

Roger is now on the road again after a short break, visiting Worthing, Crawley and Crowborough in the South East, holding tasters of Rock as those venues prepare for tour 2.

Other events coming up include an advent evening at St. John's House in Birmingham, a Rock DVD preview evening for the touring party, more Rock tasters, Roger speaking at a prayer breakfast, and the office Christmas lunch - mmmmmmm.

Rock approaches...

We're getting really close to the premiere now...

We had a full weekend worth of rehearsals last weekend, culminating in a dress rehearsal/performance on Sunday night in front of the Christ Church, Burney Lane evening congregation (and a few prayer warriors). We're thrilled with it, and we're looking forward to the premiere this weekend.

Saturday night - completely sold out
Sunday afternoon - completely sold out
Sunday night - some tickets remaining

It's going to be a great weekend.

Jairus in a day

On Saturday, Annie travelled to Sutton Coldfield (not very far!) and led a Jairus' Daughter from scratch day. She was accompanied by a team consisting of Sheila Davies, David Morris and Andrew Lockwood. It was David's first time on team, so hopefully he enjoyed it!

There were over 60 in the choir for the day, and also a large orchestra including our very own Tim Jones on drums.

With such a good orchestra, choir and soloists, the day was a huge success, and the performance was held in front of a packed South Parade Methodist Church in Sutton Coldfield. A special mention must go to the Girls Brigade - about 20 girls formed part of the sopranos and sang beautifully.

Many thanks to Peter Le Brocq and Churches Together in Sutton Coldfield for a wonderful day.

More than just a service station...

On Saturday, Helen, accompanied by her team consisting of Martin, Ann, Eddie and Jenny, travelled to Toddington for 'David in a Day'. It was a beautiful day, so the choir learnt it particularly quickly so that they could have lots of breaks outside in the sunshine!

There were about 20 in the choir, all excellent singers and very keen. There were two particularly good lads who sang some solo parts, including one who sang the part of David in the David and Goliath song. We also had some excellent instrumentalists - two clarinets, an oboe, an euphonium, a drummer and 5 year old Luke on the descant recorder, improvising his own special part.

Ann led a dance workshop for her dancers who ranged in age from 5 - 85, which all combined to make a very exciting performance.

Excitingly, Ruth, the organiser, is considering using David in the future to do a full concert with a much bigger orchestra and choir - they seem to have got quite a taste for it!

Gloucester Choir on Tour...

The Gloucester and District Christian Choir are going on tour in December and January with Roger's musical 'The Inn Crowd'. I think they did this last year too, so it must have gone down brilliantly!

Monday December 1st - Dymock Church
Friday December 5th - Minsterworth Village Hall
Monday December 8th - Matson Baptist Church
Monday December 15th - St Andrews Church Churchdown
Friday December 19th - Hesters Way Baptist Church, Cheltenham
Friday January 16th -Longford Village Hall
Saturday January 31st - St Marys Church, Newent

If you want to know more about them or about their performances, visit their website:
http://www.gloucesterchoir.org.uk/welcome.htm

David at Brent Knoll

If any of you travel down the M5, and you get to just beyond Weston Super Mare, a little before junction 22, you can look to your right and see a hill stood there on its own. This is Brent Knoll, and it is to Brent Knoll Roger and Mary travelled last weekend with their friends David and Ruth from Norwich.

The choir from the three benefice churches of Brent Knoll, Somerset – only about 18 of them, including soloists – did DAVID – which is the 3rd of Roger's musicals that they have performed in recent years. Roger, Mary, Ruth and David had a lovely time, and we are delighted that the people of the Brent Knoll churches hope to be involved with ROCK at Weston Playhouse next October.

Website Update

The CMM website has been updated with lots of new Rock information, including all of the tour 1 venues, ticket prices and contact details. Also, there is now a special offer for Sunday evening - groups of 15 or more all tickets are at £5.

Apostle - Cannock and Chasetown

On Saturday and Sunday 4th and 5th, Annie and her team of Pat and Jonathan led Apostle in a weekend. They rehearsed on the Saturday, and then performed in the Sunday morning service at Chasetown Methodist and the evening service in St. Stephen's Methodist at Cannock.

There was an enthusiastic choir of about 20, including both ministers, and they all really enjoyed themselves - so much so, they've invited Annie back next year for the Inn Crowd. The performances were well attended, and the evening performance was a circuit-wide service.

Rock Venue Change!

The Sheffield tour venue has now changed. It is no longer the Victoria Hall, but is instead the Hillsborough Leisure Centre. This means they can get loads more people in, so that's exciting! Venue details to follow...

Cheadle Hulme

(From the Rock Blog...)

The Rock Cast's first away event was a great success. After a very early start (the day before for Bill!), the team arrived a Cheadle Hulme for a Rock from Scratch day organised by Paul Barnsley and 'Heart Notes'.

During the day Roger and Annie trained a choir of over 90, while Helen rehearsed the cast separately. Roger and Annie found the time invaluable, discovering what are the 'accident blackspots' in the musical, and which bits will be good to work on with the choirs at previsits. The cast worked incredibly hard - particularly the understudies who had a chance to really work at the drama.

At the end of the day we put everything together, and performed the musical to one another, even including small bits of drama. Bill, as Cornelius, had memorised the narrations from the vocal score, which gave the overall performance great coherence. Looking forward to putting the drama in now!

If you'd like to see photos of Cheadle, and the cast rehearsals, click here

Rock Premiere

The Rock Premiere Weekend in Birmingham on 1st and 2nd November 2008 is coming up very fast indeed. The three performances are at the Adrian Boult Hall:

Saturday 1st November at 7.30pm - nearly sold out
Sunday 2nd November at 4.00pm
Sunday 2nd November at 7.30pm

Please encourage as many people as possible to come. Tickets are £10, or £8 concessions and groups of 10+

Since Bognor Regis...

... so much has happened!

We've spent a week at Lee Abbey in Devon, another at Wydale Hall in Yorkshire, and yet another at Treloyhan Manor in Cornwall. These were wonderful weeks of fun and fellowship, learning a musical from scratch to perform at the end of the week. If you sing, play an instrument, or neither, and fancy coming on holiday with CMM, please contact the CMM office for details of our holiday weeks next year. The dates are all on our calendar down the side of this blog.

We have also all been on holiday - Helen has been to Scotland with her family, Annie has spent some time in Cornwall and visiting her family in Somerset, and Roger and Mary spent 10 days in Weston-Super-Mare.

Rock previsits will soon be upon us, so please pray for Roger and the team, and also for all of the choirs rehearsing around the north of England ready for the first tour. It's getting close now!

Grovelling apologies...

I am so, so sorry for the lack of update on the two CMM blogs and website. I've sent some updates for the Rock part of the main website through to Alex, our webmaster, so there should be some more up to date info on the tour soon.

Rock Rehearsals are going well after a slightly shaky start, and we had our first rehearsal combined with cast and dancers on Tuesday. Most of the songs have been marked out now, so we simply need to practice and refine things. A huge thanks goes to Darren Close, our producer and Sally Jones and Gill Johnson, the choreographers for all their hard work.

The cast have their first away mission tomorrow, at a Rock from scratch day in Cheadle Hulme. After the scratch choir have spent the day learning the musical, we will be performing a concert version of Rock at 3.45pm. Should be great fun.

Other aspects of Rock are going well. Please pray for all the tour 1 organisers and those responsible for selling tickets. It'd be fantastic for the choirs to be able to perform in front of a full house.

Roger recently wrote this in an email:

"I’m thrilled to tell you that we have recently had two tremendous“Tasters”, at
Exeter (Crediton) and Weston. Considering these are both Tour Four venues and
there is a long way to go before they even start rehearsals, it was so
encouraging to see such large numbers and the great excitement and “buzz”amongst
them all!"

Pharisee in Bognor Regis

My apologies for the length of time since the last post on this blog. We are now well into our summer music week season. Two weeks ago we led a Pharisee music week at the Royal Norfolk Hotel in Bognor Regis - home of Christ for the Nations UK.

Unlike most of our music weeks, most of the participants in our Bognor week are not residents at the hotel, but locals who travel in every day for Roger's bible teaching and rehearsals in the morning, and then further rehearsals at night. This adds a very different feeling to the week. We as a team are not able to get to know the guests in the same way, but a greater impact is made on Bognor Regis itself, and there was a large audience for the Thursday evening performance.

See Roger's photobucket (link on the right somewhere) for photos of the Bognor Regis week.

We have three further holiday weeks this summer. Tomorrow Roger, Mary, Annie, Paul and Kathleen travel to Lee Abbey. Then from 16th-22nd August, we travel to Wydale Hall in Yorkshire for a special last minute Pharisee music week following the closure of Scargill House. Finally, from 6th-13th September we travel all the way to St. Ives, this time to learn the musical David in a week. There are still places at both Wydale and St. Ives - if you would like more information email roger@cmm.org.uk

Have a lovely summer!

A weekend in Keighley

On Friday, Roger travelled to Keighley (near Bradford) to lead a taster for Rock there. Keighley is a new venue for us, so there is much excitement about the forthcoming performance in November. Amy, a lay worker in the Methodist Circuit there is a long-standing associate of CMM, often singing on albums in the backing vocal group, and coming on team for a huge variety of events.

On Saturday, Roger was joined by Annie, Martin, Helen, Carole and Barrie, and with Amy, we led a Ways to Praise day. In the morning Roger spoke about being a worshipper, and then we divided into different groups for workshops such as creative worship, planning and leading praise, sing a new song, and open to God. At the end of the day we had the final session - Ways to Praise, in which Psalms, Hymns and Songs are looked at in detail - the importance of a good balance in worship.

The day seemed to be thoroughly enjoyed by all, and in the evening the team and their hosts all met together for a lovely buffet and fellowship time.

Yesterday morning we led the church anniversary at Cullingworth, after which most of the team went home. Roger stayed behind and led the evening service at Keighley Shared Church with their 'Big Sing' music group. Today Roger is travelling from Keighley to Hull for yet another Rock taster. Eventually we will see him in the office again!

Quiet Day

Last Saturday was the second ever quiet day held at the Community of St. John the Divine. 16 of us gathered together, and were guided by Viv Gray through the 23rd Psalm. There were several different stations set up around the chapel and the grounds, and even a room set aside for some creativity.

It was an incredibly peaceful day, and many of those present said how much they appreciated being able to have some time just for themselves and God.

At the same time, Roger was leading a Grain of Mustard Seed event in Bedford. When Roger finally returns from his flat in Weston or from his endless taster evenings for Rock, he may let me know how it went!

Rock Touring Party: Focused but not yet ready...

Last Saturday the Rock touring party met at Christ Church, Burney Lane, Birmingham with members of EBRG - Roger's support group. The aim of the day was to talk through what happens when we go on tour, to discover more about the Bible basis for the musical, and to spend some time in preparation for ministry.

So now we have a focused touring party. Just got to get the rehearsals over with now...

(Photos: The Cornelii having their armour fitted, and some of the touring party)

Rock - officially out!

On Saturday 14th June we welcomed to Birmingham all of the touring party for Rock, loads of prayer warriors, and all of the organisers and choir trainers for the coming Rock tour. When all were gathered into one place... we officially launched Rock!

In the morning Rock was performed by the cast for the first time to backing track, and seemed to be very well received. Special mention goes to Paul Sodzi standing in for Simon Cooper in the role of Jesus. Well done Paul.

After lunch the prayer warriors had their meeting with the cast, and Helen and Roger bored everyone else with administration instructions and conductors notes.

To finish off the day, Roger shared a bit of his vision for CMM post Rock, and then we had a good prayer time for the whole lot.

A very satisfactory day. And Helen allowed herself a week off to recover, hence the lateness of this post!

(Photos to follow)

A Cornish Weekend

How frustrating to be in Corwall on a beautiful sunny weekend - and inside all the time!

But despite this, we have just had a lovely weekend in Cornwall. Roger, Annie, Helen, Bob and Eve (associates from Bideford) and Pauline (an associate from Camelford) formed the team that helped lead the Torn Curtain at Threemilestone Methodist near Truro on Saturday, and the Circuit Day at Launceston Central Methodist on Sunday. It was Pauline's first event with us, and she did an excellent job!

Threemilestone and neigbouring churches gathered together a 20-strong choir who learnt the Torn Curtain. They were excellent singers, and provided a fantastic lead to the congregation who attended the special evening communion service.

On Sunday morning we helped to lead the service at Lauceston Central Methodist, for their special Circuit service. Roger led some teaching based around the Torn Curtain again, and we taught some songs ready for the afternoon communion. After the service, we had a lovely picnic with the congregation in the castle grounds, and then finished up with communion back in the church.

Office life!

I would say this is a normal week in the office, but it definitely isn't! We're incredibly busy with Rock at the moment - the publication day is coming up, and the cast drama rehearsals have started.

Yesterday, a huge pile of boxes filled with CDs arrived on a large white van before Roger was even out of his dressing gown! The books should arrive in the next couple of days. Alongside the books and CDs we have been working hard to complete the backing tracks, words copies, part-learning CDs and choir bible studies CDs.

Also, Alison Fuggle had a meeting with Roger to discuss another new musical, so watch this space!

Roger and Martin Recording the tenor and bass CDs

Annie recording the alto CD with her recording engineer, Martin

Alison Fuggle and Roger hard at work!

The Caravan Crowd!

Last weekend, the Inn Crowd had its Caravan Club debut - Pamela Dewick managed to gather together a choir of 30 in a Cambridgeshire caravan site. They all thoroughly enjoyed it, and have travelled back to their home churches excited about the possibility of performing it far and wide!

Thanks to Pamela for her hard work!

Your Performances

I have begun a new list to feature at the side of this blog entitled 'Your Performances'. This is so that people can know about any forthcoming performances of Roger's musicals in their area. So if you're putting something on, let us know when and where! helen@cmm.org.uk

Pharisee

The rest of the week at Abbot Hall went very well indeed. The orchestra and choir combined beautifully for an excellent (and unique) performance, and they were well supported by a full audience. Special mention goes to Annie for training the orchestra, and Sharon for training the choir. Thanks also go to Marian and John, our hosts for the week.

CMM lead a number of music weeks every year. For details of the other weeks, please contact the CMM office on 0121 7833291:
14th-18th July: Jail Break healing week - Harnhill
21st-25th July: Pharisee music week - Bognor Regis
2nd-9th August: Pharisee music week - Lee Abbey
16th-23rd August: Pharisee music week - Scargill
6th-13th September: David music week - St. Ives

Pictures:

Our hosts John and Marian

Some of the sopranos and altos

The tenors and basses

Some of the orchestra

The audience

Some more of the orchestra

Roger with some soloists

Annie and Sharon at the piano

Grange update

Here's a quick update from Grange.

We're having a wonderful week here at Abbott Hall. There are over 90 guests here at the hotel taking part in the Pharisee-in-a-week course.

Every morning Roger has been leading bible teaching about the story of Nicodemus. This morning he spoke on being born again, and people really seemed to engage and take part. On Thursday morning his title will be 'A new Spirit'. Should be good...

The choir is 50 strong, ably trained by Sharon Collins, and the orchestra are small, but Annie is delighted as every part is pretty much covered.

The day off is tomorrow, and most of the guests are travelling by bus to Grasmere. Let's hope they don't eat too much gingerbread!

Grange

Huge thanks to Denise for updating the blog and letting us know about how the CMM choir have been getting on.

CMM are about to head for Abbot Hall in Grange over Sands, Cumbria, for the half term week. Over the course of the week we will be learning Pharisee from scratch with a live orchestra and singers. Our week at Abbot Hall is always wonderful, so we're praying for some good weather to make it even more so.

Please pray for the team - for safe travel and a good week:
Roger, Mary, Annie, Helen, Sharon and Jaime, as well as the Christian Guild host for the week - Marian.

Saints Alive - CMM Choir

The Choir performed Saint's Alive at St John's, Walmley on Saturday May 3rd to a very decent size and friendly audience.
The performance here had a very special meaning for our sound technicians Paul and Kim as 25 years ago they rushed back from their honeymoon to participate in the musical.
I hear that everyone appreciated the hospitality and fellowship and enjoyed themselves tremendously.

On Sunday May 18th we were at Six Ways Baptist church in Erdington which was our final performance of Saints Alive (for the time being!).
We were warmly welcomed, and well looked after by The Girls Brigade. Again we had a large appreciative audience almost filling the whole church. It was a very enjoyable time.


All churches that we visited looked after the choir excellently, and the fellowship and hospitality was out-standing. Hopefully we will have brought afew more people to God and enriched the lives of others.

Denise

Rock Recording Day

On Saturday 10th May 2008, over 250 piled in to Christ Church, Ward End, in Birmingham. The aim was to record as much of the Rock choral parts as we could manage, so that a much bigger sound can be added to the CD on top of the rather beautiful, but small, backing vocal group.

The day was a huge success, and people seemed to have really enjoyed the music that they heard. Let's hope they are still as enthusiastic as this when they hear the whole lot!

Here are some photos from the day:

Wildfire in Bridport

Last weekend a CMM team consisting of Roger, Bill, Caroline, Jonathan, Linda and Helen travelled down (or in Bill's case, across) to Bridport in Dorset. A choir of about 40 there had been rehearsing Wildfire for several weeks, and the CMM team just travelled down to provide soloists and to lead the final rehearsals.

The choir had been excellently trained, and it was a wonderful performance on Saturday evening, as part of Bridport's Hope08 campaign. The church was pretty full with audience, and they really got involved, clapping along and joining in with the last couple of songs.

One choir member said this:

…unable to speak to you personally after the concert on Saturday in Bridport and so I thought this the best way to say thank you so much for such a wonderful day and amazing musical. I didn't want the evening to stop! (Presumably this is what heaven will be like!!!)

We have had a great time practising over the past couple of weeks and despite not being able to read music I have loved taking part, and have not been made to feel stupid.

I have been through a few difficult months with family problems, but Saturday just took me "out of myself" and I feel so exhilarated and uplifted by the whole event and am "rejoicing in the Lord" in spite of all that is happening. I do hope you and your lovely team will be persuaded to come back to us next year for Rock!.

And indeed we were persuaded - Rock will be performed in Bridport United Church on Monday 26th October 2009

Saints Alive - CMM Choir
Sunday 27th April
West Bromwich Baptist Church

The weather was atrocious leading up to the performance, and I thought that people would not turn up, but I was wrong. The church was packed with aproximately 160 people spanning every age group and background. The choir, under Miriam Bell though was down to 43, but with the size of the room with a low ceiling it worked out perfectly.

The choir and the congregation all seemed to enjoy themselves and again we were well looked after, with an endless supply of drinks and cake. Afterwards, there was plenty of time for fellowship as we had an early start to the performance with a majority remaining behind for this.

I found this to be the best performance so far, and I went home really feeling that the Spirit was working within me.

A big thankyou to everyone involved, especially Miriam.

by Denise Raby (alto)

Holy Spirit day

Last weekend, Roger, Annie, Helen, Richard, Kathleen and Margaret visited Gorsley in Gloucestershire. We had a wonderful time meeting and sharing with the Christians Together group from the area, who are drawn from a wide variety of churches.

On the Saturday, we led a Precious and Honoured day. Roger spoke in the morning about 'Purpose and Power', and then after a wonderful shared lunch together, we led some Holy Spirit workshops. Richard and Kathleen led a workshop on receiving the Holy Spirit, giving people time and space to wait on God and simply be blessed. Margaret led a workshop on receiving and using the gifts of the Spirit, and Annie and Helen led a session on ministering in the power of the Spirit. There were about 60 people at the day, and God really spoke to people in the workshops, bringing healing and blessing. Hopefully people will go away and use the gifts and skills they have been given.

In the final session of the day, Roger spoke about how we are all precious and honoured in God's sight, particularly focusing on Psalm 139 and using the song 'Within the Darkened Womb' from the Precious and Honoured album.

On the Sunday we led the morning service at Gorsley Chapel. They are a large, friendly congregation, and we were made very welcome.

Saints Alive

Denise from the CMM Choir writes:

The CMM Choir have been performing 'Saints Alive' across Birmingham this month.
So far we have been to:

Christ Church, Selly Park - A brand new church buiding with the choir being the first performance of many organised events. The congregation and local people did us proud filling the church, (not noticing the few slip ups of words). Afterwards we had plenty of time for fellowship over cake and drinks.


This weekend we have had two performances, on Saturday evening we were at St James', Aston, and the Sunday at St Francis, Bournville. both went very well, the choir were well looked after and supported.

Unfortunately at all performances we have been missing quite a few members due to a nasty 'bug' going round. Penny King, choir trainer and conductor has not been able to come, so on two occasions Roger himself, had to step in on the night, and Miriam Bell the other, and she has also, thankfully led us through the rehersals.
God willing every one will be recovered for the rest of the perfomances, which are:

West Bromwich Baptist (20th April 6.00pm)
St John's Walmley (3rd May 7.30pm)
Six Ways Baptist, Erdington (18th May 6.30pm)

Praise and Worship Conference

Despite fears of cancellation, the Praise and Worship Conference went ahead last Saturday. Around 30 people gathered, and we had a wonderful day.

In the morning Roger taught about being a worshipper - taking the story of King David dancing before the Ark of the Covenant as he brought it back to Jerusalem from the house of Obed-Edom.

We then divided into workshops - Susan Barter, Vicar of St. Paul's, Annie and assorted team members led a workshop on accompanying praise, looking at using CDs, piano and guitar. Helen and Louise also led a workshop on new songs, teaching some of the songs from the latest Songs of Fellowship book.

In the afternoon, Annie led a planning and leading praise session, while Roger led a creative and prophetic worship time, and the final session was teaching about Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs.

If you'd like anything similar at your church, give the CMM Office a ring, and we'll see if we can fit you in somewhere! 0121 783 3291.

Rhos on Sea

Last week, Roger, Annie, Liz and myself spent a wonderful few days at St. Winifred's Christian Endeavour Hotel, Rhos on Sea. There we were accompanied by about 30 guests, as well as local people as we learnt and performed the musical David.

Every day Roger led a morning bible teaching session followed by a choir rehearsal. The afternoons were free, and the evenings filled up with worship, rehearsals and performing.

One evening we were joined by Heather Butler, who currently lives on Anglesea. She has a fantastic prophetic ministry, and she really blessed us all through her singing in the Spirit.

The performance of David on the Thursday evening went very well indeed. Annie, Liz and myself provided the accompaniment, joined by Keith on drums, Deb on Viola and Helen on guitar. There were about 80 in the audience, which felt very full indeed. A lovely evening.

Photos: St. Winifred's Hotel, Roger and Heather Butler, the men in full voice at the rehearsal

Cello Liz

Over the last two weeks, Liz Albery has been working with us. She is a cellist, and is currently studying music, theology and worship at London School of Theology. It has been a great priviledge having Liz with us, and she has made a fantastic contribution to life here in the office, consuming Jelly Beans, for example.

She came to Rhos-on-Sea with us last week (report to follow), keeping her dinner table well entertained, and leading a powerful epilogue and praise block. She also played cello for the David performance on Thursday evening in Rhos, and at the praise and worship conference on Saturday. She is currently recording the string parts at the studio with Annie, and will then head back to London.

Our prayers and best wishes are with her as she finishes her degree, and looks to the future.

Jerusalem Joy in Andover

I just received this from Sharon in Andover. It's a great example of one of Roger's musicals being put on with a huge range of different people. From the orders we sometimes get from different churches around the country, there almost always seems to be a musical happening somewhere!

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Jerusalem Joy went amazingly well for a group of people willing but not necessarily able to read music or ever having 'trodden the boards' before! The School Hall seats 208 and we had about 170 at the matinee and 210 each evening. We have raised somewhere in the region of £2,500 for Naomi House our local Children's Hospice. But most of all we worked together across every denomination of Church regardless of age, ability etc and the feeling of the love of God was tangible.

Hayling Island

On Saturday, Annie, accompanied by Eddie and Sue (and Jenny?) went to Hayling Island to lead Jerusalem Joy in a day. They had a tough time getting down there with a long queue on the motorway, but the day went well.

There were about 40 in the choir including 15 children, and over 100 people came to the final performance. The musical went really well. Jerusalem Joy is great to do in a day, and it tells the story of Holy Week in a very clear way.

If you are interested in having Annie or Helen come to lead a musical in a day, we still have some dates available in our diaries. It is really simple to organise, and the results are very rewarding. Don't hesitate to send us an email - helen@cmm.org.uk or annie@cmm.org.uk

Congratulations

Congratulations to Katie (formerly of the CMM office) and her husband Gary. They have a baby, Joseph William, born prematurely a few weeks ago. Katie and Joseph have finally been allowed home from hospital, and we have the first photos.

We are praying for Katie and Gary that they find it easy having Joseph at home. Also that Joseph continues to grow and put on weight.

Easter

Happy Easter everyone!

We hope that you have had a Christ-filled Holy Week, and are now enjoying the Easter Season. Most of the CMM office are enjoying a well earned break: Annie, Roger and Mary are on holiday, as are Lindsay and Anne (although they'll be looking after the kids...).

Easter weekend was also a special time for CMM as Gill Treweeks, chair of EBRG and one of the trustees was married to Brian Johnson on Holy Saturday. It was a fabulous day, despite the strong winds and occasional snow, and we pray that God will bless Mr and Mrs Johnson in their new life together!

Saints Alive

The CMM Choir has been meeting over the last couple of months practicing for their six performances of Saints Alive. The rehearsals have been going well, and the choir are looking forward to meeting up after the Easter break ready for their mini-tour around the West Midlands.

Thank God for the West Birmingham choir conductor, Sylvia Whalley, whose hard work is pretty much over as the two choirs meet together under the direction of Penny King for their last rehearsals. Pray for Penny, as she adds the final touches to the production. Also pray for the sound technicians, soloists and speakers for each of the events.

The performance dates are:

13th April: Christ Church, Selly Park, 7pm

19th April: St. James' Aston, 7.15pm

20th April: St. Francis, Bournville, 7.30pm

27th April: West Bromwich Baptist, 6pm

3rd May: St. John's Walmley, 7.30pm

18th May: Six Ways Baptist, Erdington, 6.30pm

Please come along to the performances if you can. Entry is free although there will be a retiring collection.

The recording begins...

Last week we laid down the backing vocals for the recording of Rock. The studio group were:

Miriam, Catherine, Helen on soprano
Annie, Sarah on Alto
Dave, Dave on Tenor
Simon, Paul on Bass




It was a great session in Chris' brand new studio at home. Soon we will put down some live instruments before the cast put down the solos. The church recording is on May 10th in Birmingham and all are welcome. Please let me (helen@cmm.org.uk) know if you plan to attend and want more details.

Message from Canada part 2

Here's the second message Roger sent:

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Hi Folks

We are nearly at the end of our trip now. It will be good to be back, although it is going really well here. We have just had two great performances of JAIL BREAK – good attendances, great response, and people being prayed with afterwards. We are really aware of God at work and it is right that we are here at this time.

The Anglican Church in Canada is struggling with the issue of “same-sex blessings”. Most evangelicals/charismatics are vehemently opposed to this, and so are leaving or are being dismissed. Congregations are confused, worried, divided, etc. Please pray.

The situation at St John’s Church in Duncan is sad, with Glyn the Rector off sick for months. Pray for them, especially Dale Huston the “stand-in” Priest and Sue Doughty who leads the music. They will need to be open to all God is doing and receive his guidance and strength.

We are so sure that this has been God’s timing for us to be here, both in Victoria and Duncan. The folk are open to the work of the Spirit, but really need the leaders to be Bible-based and willing to lead them in moving on in the gifts of the Spirit.

JAIL BREAK has been a message “in season”, and God has touched many lives through it. Pray that this will continue and that the “seeds sown” will go on building up the church.

Do have a look at our photos – they show views of this beautiful place and also pictures of the many lovely people who have made us so welcome:
Roger's Photobucket Site

So we are soon off to our final Production, and then to Vancouver “enroute” home in the morning (Monday). We should arrive back in Birmingham on Tuesday afternoon at 1600.

Bless you all, and thank you for your prayers.

Roger + Devon & Kathleen

Message from Canada part 1

This is an edited version of the first message Roger sent from Canada last week:

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Hi Folks

We’re in a beautiful place here, but not much signal (internet or mobile). We have been very busy, but today (Tuesday) we are having a complete day off. Maybe going for a walk this afternoon - it’s lakes, sea and mountains here!

Just a few things to report:

FRI – Victoria Choir rehearsal – about 15 of them, well trained and ready to go. No problem with syncopation in Canada, but, they left the improvised bits for me to go through with them. They responded well.

SAT – “Freedom in Christ” Conference –a good number attended, a lot of great worship times, and they seemed to be responding to the teaching and “Come Holy Spirit” times.

SUN – Morning Services at St John’s Duncan. I led the worship at the 1015 more informal service. The folks really got going and were very enthusiastic.
- Evening Seminar – more lovely worship – I abandoned my programme and went with the flow of the Spirit. Kathleen and Devon did magnificently well in leading and prophesying. By the end of the evening we had encouraged quite a number of the Canadian folk to have a go at prophesying! A young girl gave a very moving testimony of how God had set her free and really blessed her when she came over to Lee Abbey for our Jail Break Music Week in 2006. “A bruised reed he will not break.”

MON – evening rehearsal in Duncan with their choir and the soloists - Great talent and a super team. They are praying that many will come to the productions at the weekend.

Bless you all,

Roger

Canada

Roger, Kathleen and Devon are in Vancouver for two weeks at the moment, performing Jail Break and leading rehearsals and conferences. Please pray for the team. A full itinerary can be found on

Roger's personal website

We know they arrived safely, but now they are in Duncan they seem to be out of mobile signal. Hopefully we will receive an update on the success of the Freedom in Christ conference on Saturday and the evening seminar yesterday soon.

There is an 8 hour time difference, so they should still be in bed as I type

Stowmarket

Last weekend, Roger and Mary went to Stowmarket to lead a Jail Break weekend. The choir there had been learning the music for a few weeks, and Roger travelled over to help with the polishing off, to lead some bible teaching, and conduct the performance.

The cast and choir (all local) combined brilliantly to make an exciting and moving performance in front of a packed church.

One of the highlights of the weekend was a powerful healing testimony, which added significantly to the message of freedom in Christ, which Jail Break portrays.

Rock Tickets

Rock tickets are available to buy right now!

Click here to go to the CMM Online Shop.

The premiere weekend:
Saturday 1st November 7.30pm
Sunday 2nd November 4pm
Sunday 2nd November 7.30pm

Tickets cost £10 adults or £8 concession

CRE time

Anyone coming to the Heart of England CRE in Telford this week? Roger, Annie, Barrie, myself and assorted others will be manning (and womanning) the CMM stand. We also have a little presentation for 10 minutes every day at 12pm on the exhibitor's highlights stand.

See you there!

Warm, Windless Whitby - is that possible?

Last week, Roger, Annie, Barbara, Mike and myself led a Jail Break healing week at Moorlands, the Christian Guild hotel in Whitby. Every day Roger taught on a different topic from Acts 16, then Annie and Helen taught Jail Break, all leading up to a worshipful performance on Thursday evening.

We were exceptionally well looked after by the hotel, and the teaching and ministry sessions went well. But the week was made even more special by the unbelievably beautiful weather. Last year the wind was incredibly strong, the temperatures freezing and even snow on the ground. This year, there was hardly any wind and soaring temperatures (for February).

One of the exciting things about CMM's ministry at the moment is the training element. In the teaching about music in praise and worship we endeavour to encourage people in their faith and intimacy with God. Alongside this though, we are trying to enable people to step out and minister to one another - something that not many Christians get to do regularly in their churches, but which should be part of the 'normal Christian life'.

Precious and Honoured

The Saturday Precious and Honoured day went very well in Bulwell. With Roger, Annie and myself were a largely new team consisting of Miriam (singing), Miriam (clarinet), Marilyn (flute), Sarah (violin), Rich (electric guitar) and James (acoustic guitar), not to mention Kevin playing cornet from the sound desk!

It was a lovely day with about 50 attending, and all were willing to participate in the come, Holy Spirit workshops in the afternoon. Our prayers are with the church as they look to move forward in their Holy Spirit ministry over the weeks and months to come.

Birthday time again

Both Annie and Katie have birthdays at this time of year, so the office celebrated in style with an all-you-can-eat Chinese Buffet last Thursday.

Just thought I'd let you all know that to make you hungry...

And also this is a prayer request. Tomorrow Roger, Annie and I are leading a healing in worship day in Bulwell in Nottingham, and then we are in Whitby leading another healing week. God often speaks very powerfully at these times, so please pray that we will be alert and able to hear his voice. Pray also for the CMM team members:

Bulwell: Kevin, Miriam, Miriam, Sarah, James, Marilyn

Whitby: Mike and Barbara

Time to retreat...

Following on from the concert with Marilyn Baker, Marilyn, Tracy and Doug (their sound technician, driver, and all-round amazing person) came with EBRG to Cloverley Hall in Shropshire. Marilyn and Tracy led our annual retreat, helping us to spend some time with God and each other, being renewed, refreshed, and reenvisioned for the year to come.

It was a fabulous time, and many of us heard from God in an exciting way.

On the Sunday when Marilyn, Tracy and Doug had left, we heard Rock together for the first time, and prayed about this new venture. We are very excited, and believe God will do some exciting things through it. Watch this space!

Turning up on the door

On Friday, Marilyn Baker performed at Christ Church, Burney Lane here in Birmingham. Due to the awkward time of year (no-one thinks about January before Christmas, and after Christmas is too late to advertise), less than 50 people had bought tickets. Thankfully, due to a lot of prayer, nearly a hundred people came to hear Marilyn sing.

It was a wonderful evening. Marilyn has a beautiful alto voice that is incredibly gentle and relaxing to listen to, and her songs are peaceful and packed full of meaning. Marilyn travels around with Tracy Williamson, who has a wonderful gift for speaking and hearing from God. Together they make a brilliant pair, with a ministry that brings people closer to God in a gentle, healing way.

If you would like to know more, visit www.marilynbakerministries.org

Archery and an indoor picnic...

The weekend before last, Annie and I travelled to Sheffield to a youth and childrens work centre called The Oakes. We helped to lead a weekend for 8-14 year olds which was based on Roger's musical Jairus' Daughter. It was a really fantastic weekend full of fun and games as well as rehearsal, bible teaching and worship.

Friday night involved a snack dinner of hamburgers and then an introduction to the weekend.

Early on Saturday morning all the leaders and team members at the Oakes meet for prayer and bible study before forcing the kids out of bed for a pancake breakfast. Saturday morning also included a bible teaching session on faith, and the first rehearsal - Annie did a fantastic job with the orchestra who were mostly clarinets, and the choir were brilliant - they virtually memorised it.

After lunch the kids got some time off to explore and take part in various activities, including craft, dance, archery and a low ropes course. Then came more rehearsal and bible teaching before a game of hunt the leaders in the dark and then an indoor bonfire to get everyone out of the pouring rain.

On Sunday after the last bible study session, the orchestra, choir and soloists all came together for a final rehearsal in the dining room which meant that tables couldn't be put out for lunch. So instead table cloths were set out for an indoor picnic.

The performance to the parents at 3pm was great - the orchestra were very sensitive, and played beautifully, particularly in all the long exposed instrumentals. The choir were really excellent, making my conducting job easier as they knew exactly where they were and what to sing.

A weekend to remember.

Dinner time...

Last Thursday evening the East Birmingham Renewal Group, the trustees and a handful of other CMM supporters gathered at a furniture shop in Erdington, north Birmingham. And no, it wasn't to buy furniture, but instead to have dinner at their restaurant.

When people were pretty full and starting to doze a bit, Roger gave his 'State of the Union' address - sharing the highs and lows of the year past, and envisioning people for the year ahead. Mostly he focused on Rock now he has finished his composition, and the wonderful opportunities it will offer. Rock will clearly show the gospel, even portraying for the first time ever an on-stage conversion. Rock will also contain a demonstration of ministry in the power of the Holy Spirit, something very close to the heart of EBRG and CMM.

Our thanks and prayers are with all of our supporters throughout the country for all of their help and generosity over the years. God bless you.

Christmas is nearly over!

This weekend has seen some of the last performances of Roger's Christmas musicals that we know about - if there are any others, please let us know.

Back in November Roger led an afternoon workshop on While Shepherds watched followed by a Ways to Praise event at Charlton in Worcestershire. Their final performance of While Shepherds Watched was on Friday. Our prayers are also with them following the death of one of their choir members at a rehearsal.

On Saturday Katie Leaver (Debbie on the album and head of customer services at CMM) led The Inn Crowd in a day at her own church, St. Andrews in Barnt Green, South Birmingham. The day was a great success, and it was followed by a performance at their morning service yesterday. The scratch choir were fantastic, and the musical was well received.

There are still two performances to go for Pamela Dewick and the Gloucester choir, including one tonight. We hope it goes well.

Praise and Worship Conference

On Saturday 12th April 2008 CMM are going to be holding a Praise and Worship Conference somewhere in Birmingham and we're trying to brainstorm ideas of content for the day. We want the conference to be as relevant to the local churches as possible, enabling them to move forward in their praise and worship.

Our ideas so far include:

Sing new songs - with the publishing of Songs of Fellowship 4, there is a vast array of new material available. We'll try to sift through it all a bit and bring you some of the best to take home to your churches.

Effective praise and worship on CD - sadly more and more churches are having to resort to using CDs or computers to accompany their music. This workshop would look at the best resources, and how to use them effectively.

Accompanying Praise - looking at different instruments and how best to accompany congregational singing.

Prophetic Worship - enabling the Holy Spirit to move creatively within our worship.

Come aside and rest - Praise and worship is one of the toughest warzones in the church. This is a place for battered worshippers to rest and receive some prayer ministry.

If you have any more ideas that your congregations would appreciate, please contact me on helen@cmm.org.uk

Concert!!!!!

Marilyn Baker is coming to perform at Christ Church, Burney Lane, Ward End, Birmingham on Friday 25th January 2008 at 7.30pm. Marilyn is a well-known singer-songwriter with a beautiful alto voice. Teamed up with her colleague Tracy, Marilyn has a powerful ministry of music and testimony.

Tickets are £5 for adults and £3 concessions. For tickets or more information email helen@cmm.org.uk. Don't miss out on a wonderful evening.

We are back!

After a long Christmas break, the CMM office is back and running - and completely swamped in orders for books and CDs. Katie and I had a mad rush to get everything ready for the postman at 12pm and ran out of £1 stamps. It's always fun trying to work out a £7.49 postage in 78p stamps...

We're busy getting ready for out next mailing which will happen in the next couple of weeks. It will contain our new 2008 catalogue, as well as details for all the events coming up. Watch this space!

Hope you all had a fantastic Christmas.