I have had a long and winding road when it comes to religion. I was raised a Lutheran, I took classes to become a Catholic, I was a preacher in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and i was married in and baptized as a Southern Baptist. I attended Seminary and taught Bible studies and Sunday School.
I don't attend church any longer. I haven't really been to church seriously in almost 8 years.
I don't really know how I feel about religions any longer. I have the knowledge. I can debate any position and defend it. All it takes is prooftexting. I saw too many Christians looking out only for themselves and lived holier than thou lives. They only wanted to reach out for those like them.
I do remember what it was like to feel a call and a touch. I don't get that feeling in church any longer. I have met a few people recently that restored a little of my faith in people.
That being said, when I hear Elvis sing these songs and the power he put into them, I still get that old feeling. I don't know what you think of Elvis, or how you feel about religion, but listen to these. I found them tonight again. Every time I listen to them, they give me a chill. You know he believed the way he sang. He was definitely making a joyous noise unto the Lord.
Peace
posted on Aug 1, 2008 12:18 AM ()
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Oh, the videos just showed up! Did you know that of all the hundreds of songs that Elvis had, "How Great Thou Art" was the only one that got him a Grammy - 3 of them?
Well, Chris... I don't see the videos. I can see a huge blank spot, but I do know Elvis!! So, I'll just imagine what he's singing. His roots were in the church and that's where he learned to sing. Toward the end, he didn't go to church either. I think it was too hard because it was hard for him to be in public places... but he sang all night with his singers after every concert... gospel songs! I think it is what you carry in your heart... God knows your soul. (I have his gospel box set with ALL of his gospel songs... ones he sang in the studio, in concert, and at home.)
He gift was huge-and he never forgot his roots.
Your not a true Southern if you don't love Elvis hun... He could always give ya chills..
I don't know that it is just Elvis. Those old familiar hymn tunes have been speaking to and calling human hearts for decades, some for centuries. When I was a drinking woman, I used to go to a gay & lesbian bar that had "Revival Meetings" on Saturday Nights. One of the lesbians who owned the bar would get up on stage and lead throngs of people in singing Old Familiar Hymns, accompanied by her guitar. Lineing for newcomers, so they knew the words, too. The place was always packed, and lasting bonds were formed there. The fact is, Elvis was very gifted, but the songs do all the work. Wherever two or more are gathered, it says. Blessed Be.
Yes, I always love listening to Elvis sing but, his gospel songs do give me chills too.
Elvis will always be the King. Most religions have their share of stuffed shirts. Ten percent of people are born good no matter the faith. You have met a few good people. Treasure them.
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