Friday 28 May 2021

A final post

 Dear friends,

Thank you to everyone who has read this blog over the years. I am now delighted to say that we now have a blog integrated onto our new website at www.cmm.org.uk so this one will no longer be updated.

Thanks for reading.

Tuesday 18 May 2021

CMM Supporters' Evening 2021

Hi friends,

We have two very exciting announcements to make!

 

Thursday 20 May 8:00 PM - Annual CMM Supporters' Evening - one of our most important events of the year! Join us as we review our past year (and what an eventful and unique year it has been), where I will give my annual "state of the union" address as well as meet members of the team, launch our new exciting website, introduce a brand new song and much more! Join us live, or catch up later. The YouTube link is:  https://youtu.be/q1sVhDGs3BU  or find it on our YouTube Channel. Don't forget to make sure you subscribe to our channel whilst you're there to help us reach more people.  

 

Monday 24 May 8:00 PM - Saints Alive! Sing-a-Long - join in with folks from all over the UK and further afield, to sing my Pentecost musical.  Lyrics will appear on the screen, but if you would like to join in and see the music, you can buy the music book from our shop (order by the morning of Thursday 20th at the latest) or download it anytime from Sheet Music Plus. Contact Helen at events@cmm.org.uk for the zoom code.

 

Please join us if you can and tell as many people as possible!

 

Roger and Mary

Tuesday 11 May 2021

The Miracle Continues...

 

Back in 1984, my Vicar and House Group believed that God was calling me to give up the secure school teaching job and go into the unknown, a Christian music ministry. We had no idea of how it was going to work out, what it was going to be like, and how the finance would be found to support ourselves and four children! The miracle has been that in all that time the CMM Trust (formally EBRG Trust) has never failed in supplying the monthly grant, extended to support Annie who joined the team in 1994, and then Helen who joined us in 2005. We have also been able to employ administrative staff as necessary.

We have never been an organisation that is continually asking for money, although from time to time we have made the needs known. Many of you have made sacrificial contributions, either as one-off payments or regular donations, and, from the bottom of my heart, I want to thank those of you who've done so!

After much prayer and consideration, we believe that the Lord is calling us to continue with this ministry. I have ideas for new songs, maybe another musical, and we are longing, when circumstances allow, to get back on the road with various events.

We also believe that in using the latest technology we have a whole field of online ministry with music and teaching. You will see from our diary there are already many events in place, and I am very excited about the future. I believe the Lord is giving us a great vision and strategy for at least the next three years.

Therefore, together with the CMM Trustees and our EBRG support group, we believe it right to make this very special appeal to our friends and associates throughout the UK and further afield. The stark facts are that without an increased support we will not be able to fulfil the ministry that we believe God is calling us to.  Many of you have made incredible one-off donations, and quite a few make regular monthly or yearly contributions. I'm now asking for more! Will you please consider not just continuing the support, but increasing it, and especially I want to make an appeal to those of you who perhaps have not realised how much we rely on financial support in order to maintain the ministry.

One-off gifts are a joy and encouragement to receive, but it is actually the regular contributions that enable us to budget and plan the way ahead, including with the office support that is so vital. We have over 3000 people on our email list, plus a few who receive occasional hard copies of our newsletter. Please would you prayerfully consider becoming a regular donor to CMM? Many regular contributions even with small amounts will create a fantastic means of support.

I believe very much that the Lord who began the miracle back in 1984 is well capable of continuing this, but as always, he does this by laying this concern on the hearts of our friends and supporters.

So, it is with great peace and joy that I lay this before you now.

You may support us via several methods:

1. Bank Transfer or Cheque*. Click here to find out more details.

2. Virgin Money giving.

* As always, with those that can, the ability to Gift Aid will enable support to be further enhanced.

Thank you so much for your ongoing friendship in partnership in this work.

May the Lord bless you greatly.

 

Never doubt God’s mighty power to work in you and accomplish all this. He will achieve infinitely more than your greatest request, your most unbelievable dream, and exceed your wildest imagination! He will outdo them all, for His miraculous power constantly energizes you.

Ephesians 3:20 (The Passion Translation)

 

Dates for your diary!

  • 20 May - Our Annual Supporters' Evening 8:00 to 9:00 PM. Normally we can accommodate just over 40 people at this event, but last year’s YouTube video has so far reached over 1000. Covid or not, we are excited to present this most important meeting in a similar way on our YouTube Channel. The link will be on a future mailing close to the time!

  • 24 May - SAINTS ALIVE! Singalong - the Jerusalem Joy event was so popular we thought you might like to join us again, at Pentecost, to take part in our musical about the birthday of the church! Contact Helen on events@cmm.org.uk  to obtain the zoom code.

 

Friday 30 April 2021

CMM Supporters' Evening and other important dates

Dear friends

When Jesus said to Peter that "I will build my church and the gates of hell will not stand against it,” (Matthew 16:18) he was thinking of much worse opposition than a pandemic and a much greater building force than just our own feeble efforts. I want to tell you that he is still building his church and it is a privilege, albeit in a small way, that he involves us all, including CMM and our many friends.

We have many exciting things to tell you about, so please forgive a list:

  • 20 May - Our Annual Supporters' Evening 8:00 to 9:00 PM. Normally we can accommodate just over 40 people at this event, but last year’s YouTube video has so far reached over 1000. Covid or not, we are excited to present this most important meeting in a similar way on our YouTube Channel. In future mailings we will let you know the actual link.
  • 24 May - SAINTS ALIVE! Singalong - the Jerusalem Joy event was so popular we thought you might like to join us again, at Pentecost, to take part in our musical about the birthday of the church! Contact Helen on events@cmm.org.uk  to obtain the zoom code.
  • 29 May–05 June - MUSIC WEEK at Rydal Hall, Cumbria. due to restrictions this will not be a normal week, but arrangements are being made for us to share together in times of worship, Bible teaching and Holy Spirit encounter. (Book direct on this number: 015394 32050)
  • 11-17 July – TORN CURTAIN week at Beechwood Court, Conwy, North Wales - at present we aim to base this week around our musical, and singers, instrumentalists and those who don't think they're either are very welcome! (Booking: 01492 593405)
(NB. At both these weeks we shall use the “Torn Curtain” musical as our main resource, and you can order music books and CDs from us.)

Looking ahead we have two exciting WORSHIP WORKS weeks:
  • 30 August–03 September - Thornleigh, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria – worshippers, leaders, musicians, in fact all are welcome to spend time worshipping, learning new songs, enjoying the Lord’s presence amongst us. (Booking: 01539 532733)
  • 22-26 November - The Pleasaunce, Overstrand, Norfolk – a lovely new venue for us, and we are looking forward to spending time together worshiping the Lord! (Booking: 01263 579212)


EXCITING DATE FOR YOUR DIARY!
Saturday 06 November – THREE WISE CAMELS, with a massed choir and orchestra, at the Coton Centre, Tamworth – Book this date! Further details to follow.

Please see our Diary – 2022 is also building, including a visit to the Oberammergau Passion Play and a Mozart concert in Salzburg.

HEART & SOUL continues each week (Weds 6-8pm) and some forthcoming guests include Michael Card, Cindy Kent and Brian Hoare www.brumsideradio.com


Finally, we have an exciting vacancy at CMM – a potentially life-changing appointment for someone to join our team with special responsibility for Administration and Media. It’s 3 days a week, mainly based in Lickey End, Worcestershire. If you know someone this might fit, then please encourage them to contact me as soon as possible at roger@cmm.org.uk  - have a look at the job description and pass it on.

As I said at the beginning, there are great and even better times ahead! Let's keep in touch with each other, but most importantly with our wonderful Lord!

Roger

Thursday 15 April 2021

Heart & Soul

If you want to listen back to the Heart and Soul back catalogue, look no further.  Here are some Mixcloud links.

Roger is thrilled to be involved in a local internet radio station.  The station isn't limited to the Birmingham area though - it is an internet radio so you can listen in anywhere!  Roger, along with Debra Mayo, Dave Stansbie and Graeme Russell host the Heart & Soul show on Wednesdays from 6-8pm (repeated Thursdays 11am-1pm).  The first half of the show is usually a pre-recorded interview with all kinds of interesting people such as Jonathan Viera and Bishop Graham Dow.  The second half is live in the studio with the team chatting to a variety of local guests.  All of the chat is interspersed with a variety of Christian music.  Do tune in if you get chance, and follow the programme on Facebook.

The last few shows are up on Mixcloud, so if you want to listen again, you can do so here:

12th September features an interview with Dave Fellingham, and then the team welcome childrens and families worker Trish Nesbett.

19th September - Roger interviews Alison Fuggle, poet and lyricist about her life and her new Christmas book 'With all the Trimmings'.  In the second hour Roger and Debs share more music and chat.

25th September - Roger shares his interview with hymnwriter Bishop Timothy Dudley-Smith.  In the second hour Simon and Roger chat to four girls about to go to Peru with BMS.

3rd October - Roger interviews the wonderful Emily Owen about her experiences becoming deaf as a teenager and about her work as an author.  Then in the second half of the programme the team talk to Nicole Robinson-Edwards about her work with Kids Klub Kampala.

10th October - Roger interviews soprano Anne Linstrum for the first hour, and then in the second week the focus is on Baby Loss Awareness week with moving interviews and conversation.

17th October - Roger interviews Jon Pocock and then the team talk about dementia with Sue Hallcroft.

24th October - a moving interview with Ruth Aylward and her mother Sally Rhodes about worship and mental health, followed by in-studio chat with Dick Rogers - clergyman, GP and parliamentary candidate.

31st October - Roger interviews Gordon Bailey about his life as entertainer, and then Roger and Debra chat about Halloween and how we should respond to it as Christians.

7th November - Roger interviews guitarist Paul Poulton about his life and ministry, and then for the second half of the show the team chat to Nick Jones, Methodist Minister in South Birmingham.

14th November - Roger chats to Steve and Velveta Thompson - Steve is Graham Kendrick's keyboard player.  Then more fun in the studio with Simon and Debs.

21st November - Emma Sargeant talks about her work as Youth Project Manager for the Church of England in Birmingham.  Then for the second hour 4 young people from 'Fast Forward' - the youth group at Holy Trinity Lickey come in.

28th November - In the first hour Roger travels to Sussex and interviews cast members from JAIL BREAK, who performed in the local prison.  The second hour sees Revs Glyn & Maureen Dew in the studio asking what do vicars do when the retire?

5th December - Roger chats to folks at Longbridge Retirement Village, and then Sheri, Dave and Rachel Gidney return to the studio to tell everyone how they got on in Kenya.

12th December - a wonderful interview with Chris Eaton, songwriter for Cliff Richard and more, followed by a chat in the studio with Richard Pidgley.

19th December - the first hour features Roger's Christmas musical, The Inn Crowd, and for the second hour Debs shares her own special Christmas music.

26th December - Roger presents Lessons and Carols - traditional and contemporary seasonal music with readings by David Suchet.  Then Simon, with Roger, presents his own varied selection of Christmas songs and carols.

2nd January - Roger presents Simeon, a Christmas musical featuring Beresford King-Smith as Simeon, with Simon Gudger as Joseph, Katie Leaver as Mary, and Gloria Close as Anna, the prophetess.  Then Rev Simon Gudger and Roger Jones present Top of the Praise Pops. Find out which songs have been most sung during 2018. There will be some surprises!

16th January - Roger Jones interviews well-known CMM singer, Ann Steer about her life and music.  Then Simon Gudger and Roger Jones welcome Andrew Haynes the racing preacher to chat about his unique ministry.

23rd January - Roger interviews New Wine author, theologian, songwriter and worship leader Neil Bennetts.  Then Debs shares thoughts, plays worship songs, and talks with local musician Helen Whitten about local churches plans to present the Christian musical "Wildfire".

30th January - Roger interviews author Deborah Armin about how she has come through and survived horrendous times of abuse and rejection, as shared in her book "On my Way Home".  Then we welcome "Story Behind the Hymn" Dave Stansbie and we find out how certain hymns have made such an impact on his life.

6th February - Following Roger's visit last week to Abu Dhabi (UAE), he interviews Rev Andrew Thompson, author and senior Chaplin of St Andrew's Abu Dhabi, who shares about his work in the UAE and his engagement with the Islamic world.  Then Debra Mayo brings an hour of inspiring music and chat to lift your heart and bless your soul.

13th February - Roger interviews Abby Eaton about her work with the Mariposa Trust that supports those who have been affected by the loss of a child at any stage of pregnancy, at birth or in infancy. Then Chris Roe, a local Christian and church warden, comes into the studio to talk about a new outreach in Walsall and surrounding areas.

20th February - Roger talks to Adrian Plass about his life and ministry - a full length interview that is moving, informative and at times hilarious!  Then for the second hour Simon and Roger welcome Andy Hancock and members of the Life Central youth group from Halesowen.

27th February - Roger talks to Rev John Mosey, who lost his daughter when a PanAm flight exploded over Lockerbie. 30 years later he reflects upon his and his family's faith journey, etc - a very moving and challenging interview.  Then Debs and Roger welcome Rev Heather Flack, former local vicar who has now become an author.

6th March - Roger talks to Rev Jo Honour, Managing Chaplain at Her Majesty's Prison Stafford. She reflects upon her role as a prison chaplain and her own faith journey.  Then Dave Stansbie and Roger welcome Graeme Russell, Community Missioner from Redditch.

13th March - A repeat of Roger's interview with Rt Rev Graham Dow - former bishop of Carlisle - a very informative interview with plenty of encouragement and challenge for today's church.  In the second hour Debs and Simon welcome a team from "Healing on the Streets", and talk about their exciting work of sharing the love and power of Jesus outside the church walls.

20th March - Roger talks to Alison Nicholas MBE, famous golfer who leapt to fame when she won the Ladies' British Open and then the US Open. Alison shares about her life in golf and her journey into faith in Jesus.  Then in the second hour Simon and Roger welcome Wesley Erpen of Birmingham City Mission. He shares about the work of BCM and also about his own personal faith.

27th March - Roger interviews Jo Boyce of CJM Music. She used to work alongside Mike Stanley, who took the part of Jesus in Angel Voices as well as singing on numerous other CMM recordings.  The second hour of the show features Marcus Pagnam, worship leader at St John's Harborne, a large Anglican church in Birmingham.

3rd April - Roger talks to Gornal-based worship leader DAVE POPE about his life and ministry in mission and music.  In the second hour Simon and Roger welcome Rev Tim Ferguson, minister at Olton Baptist, Solihull, to talk about his work in ministry, and also about his own faith journey.

10th April - Roger talks to Dave Gidney and Michael Mwanikha about the work of Children Worldwide, and then in the studio Debs and Roger chat to Trevor Gay who runs an Alpha Course from a pub, and 90 year-old Gladys Clifton who became a Christian through it!

17th April - the first hour features the whole of Roger's musical Jerusalem Joy, with Devon Brown as Jesus and narrated by Michele Guinness.  Then for the second hour Debs and Simon chat welcome back Andy Hancock with his youth group from Life Central Church, Halesowen.

24th April - a special Easter show beginning with an hour-long documentary on the life and ministry of Billy Graham.  In the second hour Debra Mayo brings her own Easter reflections, with great thoughts and fabulous songs.

1st May - for the first hour Roger talks to worship leader and children's song-writer Ian Smale (Ishmael).  Then for the second hour Simon talks to Keith and Jackie Medler who head up Catshill Baptist Foodbank.

8th May - For the first hour, Roger talks to Nigel Swinford about his life and ministry with the New English Orchestra. Then after 7pm Roger and Debs are chat to Janet and Bryan Hewett from Christians in Sport, and Philip J Nott, the chaplain at Aston Villa.

15th May - An interview with Ann Widdecombe.  Then for the second hour Dave and Roger chat to Alan Walker, a football ref and insurance loss adjuster.

22nd May - Roger interviews Emma Buchan, co-ordinator for the 'Thy Kingdom Come' prayer project.  In the second hour Roger, Dave and Simon chat to Alan Holdsworth and Kathryn Alvis from Unity Prayer in East Birmingham.

29th May - the first hour feature's Carol and Jimmy Owens' wonderful musical The Witness.  Then the second hour Mark & Trish Fox talk about their new book on Healing and John's Gospel.

5th June - Roger talks to CMM Soloist Simon Cooper about his life and ministry with Refreshment UK in Blackpool.  Then it's a 'chilled hour' with Debs.

12th June - A moving and wonderful interview with singer-songwriter Paul Field fills the first hour, and then the second hour features John Cooper, recently appointed director of the Fellowship of Reconciliation.

19th June - Roger chats to singer-songwriter Joe King about music and depression for the first hour, and then in the second hour Rev Nigel Hand comes to the studio.  He is the canon missioner for the Birmingham Anglican Diocese.

26th June - Roger interviews staff and students from London School of Theology, then Debs and Dave welcome Ruben King and Adrian Grey to talk about their Templesound Worship Music.

3rd July - Roger speaks to author and speaker Eric Delve about his life and ministry.  During the second hour Rev Francis Williamson from Kings Norton Baptist Church will be in the studio.

10th July - Roger interviews Clair Rogoff  - singer, songwriter and teacher.  Then Dave chats to Christian bookshop managers Warwick Goulding and Tim McCloud.

17th July - features Roger's musical 'Wildfire' for the first hour, and then a studio chat with Colin Tamplin, former pastor at Monyhull Church.
24th July - Roger interviews Roger Mayor, composer, arranger and pianist.  Then Dave and Debs chat to Steve Chedgzoy from Operation Mobilisation.

From 31st July - 28th August the Heart & Soul team are taking a well-earned rest, and each show will comprise two hours of non-stop worship music.  If you want to listen to any of these shows, you'll find our playlist here.

4th September - the team return to Heart & Soul with a moving interview with Chris Bowater, followed by chat with Roger and Debs in the studio.

11th September - Roger interviews singer, song-writer, worship leader Sue Rinaldi who shares about her life and ministry featuring several songs from her latest album "Stranger". The second hour is 'live' with the studio visit of Rev Jill MacDonald, local lay-reader, church minister and recent recipient of Alphege Award by the Archbishop of Canterbury for exceptional contribution to community building.

18th September - Roger's feature interview is with Methodist minister and author Andrew Roberts about his book "Holy Habits", which has become a nationwide for churches and is still growing!  Then Roger and Dave welcome Tom, a Birmingham policeman, former Royal Marine, who shares how he came to faith and how Jesus makes a difference to his daily life on the streets of the second city.

25th September - Roger interviews singer, song-writer, worship leader Lou Fellingham about her life and ministry, with songs from Lou's latest album.  Then live in the studio Morgan Robinson shares about her work as a vet, her passion for leading worship and her faith journey.

2nd October - Roger features Christian opera singer Jonathan Veira and talks to his fans and supporters before and after his appearance at Spring Harvest.  Then we welcome Rev Jo Musson, a "wing-walking" vicar from Worcester!

9th October - We revisit Roger's interview with Abby Eaton as part of our special evening for Baby Loss Awareness Week.  In the second hour Roger and Debs are joined by Roger's CMM colleague Helen Pollard as she shares about miscarriage and emotional healing.

16th October - There was a slight issue with the recording for the first hour so the Mercy Ships interview was repeated the following week.  The second hour features Chris Milton, chaplain to Cadbury College.

23rd October - We hear from Darren Richards about the amazing work of Mercy Ships, which brings medical care and attention to 1000s of folk each year.  Then Debs and Dave welcome Grace Beecher - Singer/Songwriter from Temple Sound based at Harvest Temple Church - Wolverhampton.

30th October - Roger talks to Val Ralston about the amazing schools work of "Open the Book". Then for the second hour Debs and Roger Garth Nathaniel, Rector at Ipsley, in another of our "Meet the Minister" series.

6th November - Roger talks to Peter Moger and his wife Heather Moger about their love for worship and music. Until recently Peter was Precentor at York Minster, and Heather, a professional musician and teacher has produced great material to help under-5s develop and make music. At 7-8pm Dave Stansbie and Roger present an hour of chat and worship music.

13th November - Roger Jones talks to composer, arranger, pianist Roger Mayor about his life, music and ministry. Then Dave and Debra welcome dynamic Anglican vicar and author Andy Delmege.

20 November - an interview and music from CMM's own Ann Steer for the first hour. For the second hour Dave and Graeme chat to David King from Temple Harvest Church in Wolverhampton about his singles ministry.


27 November - Roger chats to Linda Ngamlana, principal of the Amasongo School in Grahamstown, South Africa, alongside supporter Kate Mier, a vicar in Studley. Then for the second hour, Stuart and Vicky Kettell, wedding photographers with a difference are going to be chatting in the studio.

4th December - Roger talks to Chantal Mason, a member of the Lee Abbey community who tells of her own faith journey and also of the work and ministry of the wonderful North Devon community.  Then Dave and Debs welcome the dynamic "Racing Reverend" Colin Mcllwaine.

11 December - Roger chats to Helen Sworn and Amanda Daly about the work of "Chab Dai", an organisation based in Cambodia that helps to combat the awful impact of human trafficking. Then Debs and Dave welcome Rev Claire Turner, vicar of St Chad's Rubery, in our series of "Meet the Minister".

18 December - Roger Jones talks to international singer songwriter Chris Eaton about his songs on last year's Cliff Richard album. Listen to how Chris got the ideas for songs and how Sir Cliff is doing.  Then Debra hosts an hour of traditional and modern Christmas music.

25 December - Roger shares his musical 'Simeon' and then Dave brings some Christmas carols and songs.

1 January - Roger presents his musical 'The Inn Crowd' and then Dave brings more wonderful carols and songs.

8 January - a wonderful show featuring Roger's interview with Fiona Castle, as well as a chat in the studio with Joy Doal, CEO of Anawim.

15 January - Roger interviews Bishop Anne Hollinghurst, Bishop of Aston in Birmingham.  The for the second hour Debs and Roger welcome Canon David Swarbrick, vicar of All Saints Kings Heath.

4 March - Roger interviews Gordon Lee, soloist in both Mary Magdalene and From Pharaoh to Freedom before starting his own ministry.  Then for the second hour enjoy chat with the whole team in the studio.

11 March - Roger interviews songwriter and worship leader Dave Haddon about his life and ministry.  For the second hour Graeme and Debs chat to Guy Donegan-Cross, the Birmingham Diocesan leader for Growing Disciples.

18 March - Roger interviews dancer Lily Brito during his visit to Abu Dhabi about her amazing story. Then Graeme and Debra chat to Rev Guy Donegan-Cross about Growing Disciples.

22 March - a special Mothering Sunday service from Catshill Baptist led by Rev Simon Gudger.

25 March - Roger chats to Rev Sue Field, Archdeacon Pastor of Coventry.  She has long been connected with CMM.  Then Dave presents an hour of music and chat.

29 March - morning worship from Simon Gudger at Catshill Baptist Church

01 April - Roger and Graeme interview boxer Andy Flute about his interesting life and faith journey.  Then Graeme presents reflections on how Spring Harvest had been been a blessing to him.

05 April - morning worship from Simon Gudger at Catshill Baptist Church

08 April - the first hour is Roger's Easter musical, Jerusalem Joy.  Then Debs brings an hour of chilled music and reflection for the week before the cross.

10th April - a service for Good Friday from Rev Simon Gudger

12th April - Easter Sunday morning worship from Rev Simon Gudger

15th April - a special 2nd birthday edition featuring Roger's musical Mary Magdalene narrated by Annie Routley.  Then for the second hour Dave shares Easter music and reflection.

19th April - Sunday morning worship from Simon Gudger at Catshill Baptist Church

22nd April - a rerun of Roger's interview with Fiona Castle, followed by an hour of music and chat from Debs.

25th April - Sunday morning worship from Simon Gudger at Catshill Baptist Church

29th April - Roger talks to Jonathan Veira about his latest album and shares some wonderful tracks, and then Graeme shares a 'Lockdown Reflection'.

3rd May - Sunday morning worship from Simon Gudger at Catshill Baptist Church

6th May - Roger talks to Spring Harvest speaker Steve Legg about his international ministry, particularly in reaching men for Jesus.  Then Dave reveals the 'pick of the worship pops'.

10th May - Sunday morning worship from Simon Gudger at Catshill Baptist Church

13th May - Roger talks to local GP and Anglican Lay Reader Ian Morrey.  Then Debs presents an hour of reflection, prayer and praise.

17th May - Sunday morning worship from Simon Gudger at Catshill Baptist Church































































14th April - Roger talks to poet and author Liz Carter about her life and work. It is a very moving and challenging interview. Her latest book is "Treasure in Dark Places". Then Dave Stansbie brings an hour of the music of "Casting Crowns", and a "smorgasbord" of reflections to lift your heart and bless your soul.



5th May - Roger talks to "Well-Being" Counsellor Philippa Allenby about her life and faith. Then Dave brings us a "mish-mash" of chat and music to lift your heart and bless you soul!

Tuesday 13 April 2021

An exciting new opportunity at CMM

Dear friends

As you may know, Helen, after many exciting years with us, is to leave in August in order to pursue a fresh ministry call alongside Amy, my PA, who leaves to take maternity leave at the end of May. We thank God for their many years of commitment, friendship and support, and wish them his deepest blessing and provision for the future.

Helen writes:

"At the end of August I will have spent 16 very blessed years at CMM. I am humbled by the incredible provision of God through you all that has enabled me to continue working in this wonderful team for so long - it began with a gap year, after all! After many months of heart-searching and listening to God, I feel that the time is right to move on into the new things that He has for me. The commitment to both the Word and the Spirit at the heart of CMM has been such an important building block in my life, and I am so grateful. It is exciting to be beginning this new chapter alongside Amy, although I will miss my CMM friends very much. No doubt we will all continue to meet at CMM gatherings as I hope to remain a friend and associate of the ministry."

We feel it right not to try to replace them, but rather look to the future for a new person to join the team, to be responsible for administration and media, particularly with reference to the maintenance and development of our many resources, as well as the promotion of ongoing activities.

We really need your help in advertising this post. We all have our own network contacts, official or otherwise, and even if you are some way away from our geographical area you may have strategic connections. I felt the Lord say, ‘I want to give someone a life-changing adventure!’

Here is the text of the advert for the new position:

A unique opportunity at Christian Music Ministries

We are looking for someone with special gifts in:
Administration and Media

We seek a music loving, Spirit-filled person to join our small team in maintaining and developing the mission of Christian Music Ministries (CMM). You would be at the heart of all we do and should gain much satisfaction and inspiration in experiencing God at work amongst us.

CMM has a special ministry in bringing musical productions, events and resources to churches, schools and organisations, in UK and abroad.
  • 3 days per week, including Monday & Thursday (0930-1630).
  • Based at Roger & Mary Jones’ home in Lickey End, Worcs.
  • Some remote work may be possible.
  • Salary: £875.00 per month GROSS
Email roger@cmm.org.uk for further information.

www.cmm.org.uk
Director: Roger Jones



Dates for your diaries:

01/05 - Helen to lead worship at YPray Women's Conference on Zoom, 1000-1300. Click here to book.
20/05 - CMM Supporters' Evening - YouTube premiere video, 8pm. Further details in a future mailing.
24/05 - Saints Alive! Zoom Singalong (or playalong!). More details to follow in a future mailing.
29/05 - 05/06 - Rydal Hall Music Week. This week will take place with some restrictions. There are still places available, so do contact mail@rydalhall.org for more information.

As always, Heart & Soul continues to broadcast on Wednesday evenings form 6-8pm, repeated Thursdays at 11am. Listen live at https://brumsideradio.com/ or listen again on mixcloud via our blog archive.

Thursday 18 March 2021

Jesus Lives! Premiere

Dear friends

As we approach the end of Lent and anticipate Easter, it occurs to me that this is a fair reflection of our journey through lockdown and ultimately out into a “new” kind of freedom. Recently the Lord has been showing us that it is important to find his power and presence during Lent as well as during Lockdown.  We have had our attention drawn to the story of Daniel, who experienced his own lockdown in Babylon yet knew the protection and provision of God in the most difficult circumstances.  So whether we are in Lent or Lockdown, the Lord is here and his Spirit is with us!

We have two very exciting events coming up:

Tuesday 23rd March (next Tuesday!) – JESUS LIVES!
This special YouTube premiere will last 15-20 minutes and will include three songs as well as some Holy Week and Easter teaching from Roger. The main feature will be 'Jesus Lives!' - a new setting of the traditional hymn. Over 100 singers and instrumentalists have sent us their video performances, and the amazing CMM team have put together what will be a very exciting presentation. Please share and join us at 8pm GMT if you can: https://youtu.be/GCvBPFbB3kM The full video, as well as the hymn as a standalone to use in your Easter Services, will be available after the premiere, but it is so fun to have lots of you online commenting and sharing together.

Monday 29th March  - JERUSALEM JOY
We will be having a Jerusalem Joy sing-a-long over zoom at 8pm GMT on the Monday night of Holy Week. Annie, Helen and myself will talk you through it, and you'll be able to sing along with Devon Brown and the many other CMM soloists on the CD!  We’ll have the lyrics on screen, but we won't be displaying the music. Places are limited due to zoom restrictions, so do contact us for the zoom code if you would like to be a part of it (office@cmm.org.uk). It will be wonderful to see you all and have lots of you join in!

If you haven't got a copy of the vocal score of “Jerusalem Joy” you can order from the CMM shop,  or download from Sheet Music Plus. The recording is also available from CMM, or downloadable from iTunes and Amazon.

Heart and Soul

As usual we have a great line-up of programmes on HEART & SOUL over the next few weeks:

Wed 24 March - Cheryl Jenkinson (CMM clarinettist) - Downs Syndrome awareness week followed by Steve Bagnall - Care Centre manager for Birmingham City Mission.    

Wed 31 March - Jerusalem Joy - archive Aston Manor school choir recording followed by Debra, Dave, Graeme & Roger sharing Easter music and thoughts.

Wed 07 April -   Ian Stott - local professional singer, songwriter followed by Graeme Russell bringing his own choice of music and thoughts.

Listen to “Heart & Soul” each Wednesday 6:00 PM till 8:00 PM or repeat Thursday 11 AM to 1:00 PM on www.brumsideradio.com You can also listen to our past shows on our archives


It’s all very exciting – but the most exciting thing is the reality that JESUS LIVES!  May you know his living presence with you right now.

Roger

 

Wednesday 10 March 2021

See How He Dies

Hi folks

As we go through our second Lent lockdown, we’re aware of the many restrictions, which have such great effect on our lives. But the wonderful truth is that Lent always brings us to Easter, and in a real sense it’s always Easter, it's always Christmas, it's always Pentecost. The seasons are a helpful discipline, but we rejoice in the reality that “Christ is risen - he is risen indeed!” and “The Lord is here, his Spirit is with us”. These statements are true every moment of every day!

Our special Lent and Easter projects are coming on apace!

AVAILABLE NOW:

Ideal for Mothering Sunday:
ENGRAVED UPON MY PALMS – both as a standalone lyric video by Annie and with some accompanying teaching.

Just released in time for you to use on Passion Sunday and Good Friday:
SEE HOW HE DIES ON A CROSS – a virtual choir lyric video created by Helen


COMING UP:

Tuesday 23rd March - JESUS LIVES video, which will be premiering on our YouTube channel at 8pm. We will send a further link direct to the video as soon as we have one. Sheet music for this anthem is available to purchase on Sheet Music Plus.

Monday 29th March - JERUSALEM JOY sing along, over zoom. This is my first ever musical, dating back to 1973, but still one of my most popular. We will play through the recording of the musical, introducing and talking about each song. There will also be some devotional time. If you would like to join us, email events@cmm.org.uk to ask for the link. We will just be displaying the lyrics on the evening, so if you don’t own a copy of the score, do buy one from the CMM website, or it is available as a download from sheet music plus and also on Kindle for those that are going paperless! The CD is also available from CMM, or to download and/or stream from iTunes, Amazon, Spotify etc. We really hope this will be a lovely way to begin Holy Week, and it will be an opportunity to sing together (even if you have to be on mute!).


This week on “Heart & Soul” we have my exclusive interview with international writer, broadcaster and speaker JEFF LUCAS. This goes out on Wednesday at 6pm, repeated Thursday at 11am. For the second hour this week Deborah Mayo has a fascinating talk with sisters Belinda & Penny about their faith and project PRETTY PRAYERS. www.brumsideradio.com 

After a couple of days both hours will be in our Heart & Soul catalogue on the CMM blog: https://christianmusicministries.blogspot.com/2018/07/heart-soul.html
Here you can “catch-up” with most of our shows.

We really miss seeing you all at our various events, but at least these are occasions to keep in touch!

Roger

Friday 26 February 2021

Engraved upon my palms and more Lent/Easter material

Hi Folks,

For now the winter is past,
the rain is over and gone.
The flowers appear on the earth;
the time of singing has come … Song of Songs 2:11-12


It really is a joy to feel the sun warm on our faces, and to see signs of life and hope springing up everywhere. Here at CMM we are excited at the prospect of finally getting out on the road again and seeing some of you face to face. See further down this mailing for more information about our music weeks which seem might well be able to go ahead this year.

For the time being, however, we wait. And we are conscious that it is very likely we will still be worshipping from our homes for the duration of Lent and into Easter here in the UK. So in response, we are working on a few video projects that we hope you will be able to share with your pastors and worship leaders, and with your families and friends.

The first of these is a simple lyric video to the song ‘Engraved upon my Palms’ put together by Annie. We have two options for you to share and enjoy – the lyric video on its own, or one accompanied by some teaching from Roger. It is perfect material for Mothering Sunday.

Looking further into Lent, Helen is currently working on a video of the anthem version of our song ‘See how he dies on a cross’. For those of you who follow a liturgical calendar, this will be perfect for Passion Sunday (21st March) or Good Friday (2nd March). We plan to release this on our YouTube channel in the week beginning 8th March.

Then there is still time to take part in our Easter ‘Jesus Lives!’ project – the deadline for video submissions for this is Friday 5th March. This is a lively new tune to the old hymn by Christian F Gellert and will be perfect for Easter Sunday services and beyond into the Easter season. If you would like to get involved, send an email to annieroutley@btinternet.com and she will send you the information for participants.

There are a few more potential projects and ideas coming along, so watch this space!

We also have a date for your diary – Thursday 20th May. This will be our annual Supporters’ Evening. In the past this has been quite a small event, but now with the wonders of Zoom and YouTube etc, we hope to have an evening far more can attend. So do keep your eyes on our mailings and we will let you know in good time how to take part.

At last it looks like we can see a return of CMM’s Music/Worship Weeks in 2021:

29 May-05 Jun TORN CURTAIN Rydal Hall, Cumbria (01539 432050 www.rydalhall.org)
- come & learn the musical - with Covid restrictions, numbers limited, waiting list

11-17 July TORN CURTAIN Beechwood Court, Conwy, North Wales (01492 593405 www.cehc.org.uk)
- come & rehearse the musical - hopefully a fully functioning week with final performance

30 Aug-03 Sep WORSHIP WORKS Thornleigh, Grange, Cumbria (01539 532733 www.thornleigh.org)
- for everyone, a time to come together to worship, learn new material, Bible teaching, etc

22-26 Nov WORSHIP WORKS The Pleasaunce, Overstrand, Norfolk (01263 579212 www.cehc.org.uk)
- for everyone, a time to come together to worship, learn new material, Bible teaching, etc

NB. Please book directly with the hotels

It would be so lovely to see you face to face. Do be praying for us and all of the venues as we prepare and investigate what will be possible.

God bless you all!

Roger and the CMM team


HEART& SOUL highlights coming up (Weds 6-8pm (repeats Thur 11am-1pm) on www.brumsideradio.com)

03 Mar
6pm SIMON BAKER - National co-ordinator of “Community Bible Study”
7pm RICHARD PIDGLEY – Minister of Millpool Church, Kings Heath

10 Mar
6pm JEFF LUCAS – international author, speaker, broadcaster, etc
7pm PRETTY PRAYERS ministry, with DEBRA MAYO

17 Mar
6pm NIGEL & JULIE CAMERON-HALL – worship leaders, recording artists, speakers
7pm GRAEME RUSSELL brings songs and thoughts

24 Mar
6pm IAN STOTT – local singer, song-writer, etc
7pm DAVE STANSBIE brings songs and thoughts

31 Mar
6pm “JERUSALEM JOY” – with CHRIS BOWATER & ASTON MANOR SCHOOL
7pm DEBRA MAYO, ROGER JONES, GRAEME RUSSELL & DAVE STANSBIE share thoughts and music






Tuesday 9 February 2021

Jesus Lives! A collaborative project

Dear friends,

On the last mailing we mentioned that Roger was getting all creative again, and this time his focus was some Passiontide and Easter material. We also mentioned that there would be an opportunity to take part – well here’s the details!

We are going to be producing a virtual choir and orchestra video once again, so we need singers and players. You’ll need to be able to listen to the guide track through headphones and record a video of yourself playing or singing.

As we are going to be performing Roger’s new tune to the old hymn ‘Jesus Lives’, we will be holding a Zoom rehearsal next week on Tuesday 16th February at 8pm. This rehearsal isn’t compulsory, and you are also welcome to attend even if you aren’t able to record a video for the project.

The deadline for video submissions is Friday 5th March.

If you would like to be involved, do email annieroutley@btinternet.com and she will send you full instructions as well as the guide track, sheet music and Zoom link. If you’re an instrumentalist, do let her know what instrument you play when you get in touch!

Have a look at our last project – We Three Kings / Noel! This was the finale of our virtual premiere of Three Wise Camels.


Alongside this project, Roger is also excited about Heart & Soul. He writes this:

Recently, we were thrilled and encouraged to read this on Facebook:

Congratulations to the entire Heart & Soul team as they have just broadcast their 50th show with us here at Brumside Radio. One of our primetime shows which gets a huge amount of traffic every week. (Richard Laundon - Brumside Radio)

This is 50 shows since the new Brumside Radio station was formed. “Heart and Soul” has actually been going for 3 years now! We’ve had some wonderful guests over the years and made many contacts with leaders and others with great faith stories. It’s a privilege to work alongside my Co-Presenters Debra Mayo, Graeme Russell and Dave Stansbie.

Recently I have been interviewing some incredible guests such as Bob Hartman, Jack Sara (Bethlehem Bible College), Gavin Calver (Evangelical Alliance) and Rob Parsons (Care for the Family) – click on their names to access the catch up facility on Mixcloud.

Coming up:
  • 10 February – Nigel Lloyd-Latham (singer, song-writer, worship leader) followed by Henrietta Blyth (CEO of Open Doors)
  • 17 February – Philippa Hanna (singer, song-writer, and now mother!)
  • 24 February – Paul Harcourt (National Leader of New Wine)
  • 03 March – Simon Baker (Community Bible Studies)
  • 10 March – Jeff Lucas (international writer, speaker, broadcaster)
Please listen each Wednesday 6-8pm (repeats Thursdays 11am-1pm) on https://openradio.app/station/brumside-radio-3c20htr7 or www.brumsideradio.com

I’m so excited by these amazing guests, so do spread the word as much as you can!


God bless,

Roger and the CMM Team




Thursday 28 January 2021

CMM Resources for Lent and Easter

Dear friends – the new year progresses and we are moving towards Lent, Passion and Easter. I share this extract from a joint message from Rt Rev Justin Welby and Rt Rev Stephen Cotterill:

“… we have hope because God raised Jesus from the dead. This is the Christian hope that we will be celebrating at Easter. We live in the hope that we will share in his resurrection. Death doesn’t have the last word. In God’s Kingdom every tear will be wiped away.” (Archbishops of Canterbury and York)

At CMM we have a vast number of resources for the coming seasons, and although there may be few “normal” or “live” performances, we do urge you to try using them in as many ways as you can, both personally and corporately. Do see the list at the bottom of this email, but I’d like to draw your attention particularly to JERUSALEM JOY - We have just released a re-mastered edition of the 1975 recording, with the Choirs of Aston Manor School, and Chris Bowater. It’s now available as a download from our site. It’s a vintage recording and a joy to have recovered!

But this email is not just about existing material, I’m starting to get creative again, and working on several Easter pieces, including with a new bouncy setting of the traditional hymn JESUS LIVES (I’m calling it a Resurrection Romp!). Keep your eyes on these emails because we’ll be asking for singers and instrumentalists to participate in that one! We also intend to release other songs in video form over the next few weeks in good time for you to use them in virtual services or share them with your friends on social media. It is wonderful to be creative again since I finished writing THREE WISE CAMELS in July!

CMM Easter Products Available:

MUSICALS - From Pharaoh to Freedom, Jerusalem Joy, Mary Magdalene, Pharisee, Rock, Saints Alive, Snakes and Ladders, Torn Curtain, Two Sisters and a Funeral

CHORAL ANTHEMS – (Lent and Easter, SATB unless otherwise stated):
Abide with me, It is a thing most wonderful, Lazarus of Bethany (I am the resurrection), Man of sorrows, My song is love unknown, O love that will not let me go, O my Saviour lifted, Praise to the holiest , See how he dies on a cross, Take, eat, this is my body, There is a green hill/Dear Lord and Father, When I survey

HYMN COLLECTION:
Abide with me, And can it be, Christ is alive, I met you at the cross, It is a thing most wonderful, Man of sorrows, My Jesus, I love thee, My song is love unknown, O love that will not let me go, O my Saviour lifted, Praise to the holiest, There is a green hill far away, When I survey the wondrous cross, Were you there?

PSALM COLLECTION
Christ our Passover, Engraved upon my palms (Mothering Sunday), Jesus lamb of God

SONG COLLECTION
Behold the Lamb, God raised him up, Hark how all the new bells ring, Jesus comes, riding into town, Jesus rode a donkey, Lazarus of Bethany (I am the resurrection), Let us fix our eyes upon Jesus (AR), See how he dies on a cross, Take, eat, this is my body, When I see the blood I will pass over you 


SEASONS AND REASONS (My collaboration with Timothy Dudley-Smith)
Freely for the love he bears us, Heaven’s throne ascending, When to our world the Saviour came

SEE WHAT A MORNING
– whole album of Easter Backing Tracks by Tim Jones

THIS IS THE PLACE
– instrumental album by Annie Routley, including a string octet arrangement of When I see the blood I will pass over you, Man of Sorrows, Let us fix our eyes upon Jesus 


Do make sure you explore our YouTube channel, as many of these items can be found there, including the original tour video recordings of some of the musicals. I continue to go LIVE AT FIVE on Mondays on my Facebook page, and hope also to go live on YouTube at some point for those who aren’t on Facebook. Finally, don’t forget HEART & SOUL each Wednesday at 6pm, repeated Thursday at 11am on brumsideradio.com.

God bless you all!

Roger

Thursday 7 January 2021

Happy New Year from CMM

Happy New Year! – I guess for all of us, that greeting has especial poignance and meaning.  2020 was not what we expected nor wanted, and we enter 2021 with understandable trepidation.  At CMM, time and time again we are led to Isaiah 43, which preceding the foundational (certainly to us!) “You are precious and honoured in my sight … I love you” (4), we see these thrilling words of promise:

                When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;

                and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.

                When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.

                For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Saviour.” (2-3a)

 

Here is promise of his presence and protection, and we must engage with both.  He has promised to be with us always, so no part of our lives need be without him.  Knowing him is our birth-right right as Christians, and despite the restrictions imposed upon us we have many ways of staying in touch with our Lord and Saviour.  Let’s not be a people who only cry out to him when we encounter difficulties, but make significant efforts to stay in touch daily, in fact moment-by-moment.  This will not come naturally to most of us.  If you are like me, the natural instinct will be to go-it-alone. No good!  Do read Proverbs 3:5-6 on this!

 

Of course we all miss the gatherings in home groups, congregations and larger events, and long for such times to return. We at CMM miss you all so much!  But there is so much online and the Lord has caused us to learn new skills and outlets.  In my lifetime the church has never been so free from the physical boundaries of its buildings and traditional ways of operating.  You will have seen how we at CMM are attempting to respond to this challenge.

 

Mary and I have taken to going LIVE AT FIVE on Facebook on my personal page, and there has been great interest and engagement with this. Do follow me if you want to see these.  We also plan to release more videos over the next months, so do watch out for them to appear on the CMM YOUTUBE CHANNEL.  By subscribing you get automatic notice of new additions.

 

HEART & SOUL has now been going for nearly three years, and we are greatly encouraged to occasionally receive comments following our broadcasts from listeners from throughout UK and further.  Over the next few months we have a very exciting line-up:

  • Jan 13 - Gavin Calver (Evangelical Alliance)
  • Jan 20 - “Tough Talk” (Ex gangsters, offenders, power-lifters, bouncers, etc - led by Debra Mayo – 2 hours)
  • Jan 27 - “Apostle” musical (Feast of Conversion of St Paul)
  • Feb 03 - Rob Parsons (Care for the Family)
  • Feb 10 - Nigel Lloyd-Latham (singer, song-writer)
  • Feb 17 - Philippa Hanna (singer, worship leader, song-writer)
  • Feb 24 - Paul Harcourt (National Leader - New Wine)
  • Mar 03 - Simon Baker (Community Bible Studies)
  • Mar 10 - Jeff Lucas (international speaker, author, writer, broadcaster)

These are mainly my 6-7pm guests, but Debra Mayo, Dave Stansbie and Graeme Russell will be bringing inspiring music and themes each week 7-8pm, and their sessions are a real blessing.  They are a great team!
Listen each Wednesday (6-8pm) on www.brumsideradio.com repeats Thursday 11am-1pm)

We have now established a nation-wide network of REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVES who will be aiming to bring CMM to the notices of local groups, churches, choirs schools, etc.  Their local knowledge is vital in bringing CMM’s ministry and materials to a wider “audience”.  Please have a look at the list.

  • Is there a rep for your area?  If so, can you help them by putting them in touch with local opportunities and openings?
  • If there’s not a rep in your area do you know someone who might be suitable?

 

So lots to think, pray and act upon.  We really do value your support, so thank you so much for standing with us!

 

Roger Jones