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Godfrey Birtill - June 2008 |
Godfrey Birtill – June 2008
Last year at the Grapevine festival, I experienced a fantastic time of worship when Godfrey Birtill led us in his unique style during one or two of the services. So I was very happy when it was announced that he would be coming to spend time with us at the Lighthouse Pentecostal Church.
Godfrey turned up with his son and two gents from across the Atlantic on Saturday afternoon. And after a few minutes setting up, he launched into a two hour “Worship Workshop”. The turnout was good for the workshop, with many visitors from other churches attending. Godfrey shared his testimony and provided insights into his song writing techniques.
Many of the points made during the workshop were very encouraging to both musicians and non musicians alike. Godfrey also led us into a time of worship which was very relaxed yet absorbing.
Later that evening Godfrey took to the stage in the South Holland Centre. The event was well attended. The meeting took place within the main theatre, although, Godfrey was adamant that he was not there to perform. When the South Holland Centre staff attempted to create mood lighting he stated in no uncertain terms that he was not there to entertain, half jokingly he states “we are not that good”.
But in truth, the evening turned out to be a fantastic time of praise and worship, and it was quite obvious that Jesus was the centre of our attention. The songs flowed, starting with that great old Wesley hymn “Oh for a thousand tongues” and following through with some of our favourites like “God so Loved (Yeah, Yeah Yeah)”, “Lift up your heads” and the fun but thoughtful “Are you ready, ready, ready?”. Plus one of my favourites from his latest album “The die has been cast”.
Yes, it is true that Godfrey’s style is not to everybody’s taste. His song writing style certainly differs from many of the worship bands we like to listen to today. He is certainly bold with his lyrics and this can possibly be considered a touch irreverent by some. Since Godfrey’s visit, I have spoken with many people in the church asking what they thought. The truth is that whilst some did not agree with his style of worship, many did. I remember at the Grapevine festival Godfrey talking about one of his songs and calling it the Marmite song – you either love it or you hate it. The bigger picture is that he is a worshiper of God and an inspiration.
By Mark Lovick
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