P4TJ Newsletter - Mark Lowry to leave the Vocal Band...7-7-01
I'd first just like to say a special welcome to the new people on my list (there's even someone from Israel, Australia and England on here! Welcome!) and to let you know my newsletter will consist not only of my poetry and inspirations, but also periodic updates on exciting things happening in my life or just things I'd like to share with you. God continues to open incredible doors and is working out some wonderful things, and I look forward to sharing them with you.
For those who are new, you can keep updated with past newsletters by going to my website http://www.elisasjourney.com and clicking on "My Poems" for all my poetry/insight newsletters and "My Journey" for all concert newsletters. If you do not want to continue to be on this list or ever want to be removed, just reply and put remove in the subject line. Also, thank you to everyone for the continued encouragement and kinds word you send my way. You are such a blessing and it's humbling to know God is able to use someone like me to reach out to those in need. All I am is a willing vessel who loves to write/sing and what greater blessing than to use my talent for the glory of God! Thanks again and welcome to Poems for the Journey!
This is taken from Mark Lowry's website...and following it is my response that I posted on Gaithernet's message boards for those who are worried about how I took the news :o) ...
"A Season Ends
I've sung baritone for Bill Gaither for 13 years, and let me tell you it's been a great ride and a great education. I've learned to sing baritone...and actually hear it, at times. I've learned to sleep in a bunk. I've learned the importance of pitch, pocket and passion. I've learned more about God. I've learned so much watching Bill and Gloria and their organization. I've learned how to treat employees (they are always generous, fair and people of their word.) I've learned how it feels to be loved unconditionally by people who aren't even my family. I've learned how to blend. I've learned how to stand out. I've learned how to be on stage with someone besides myself.
I've had great teachers: Bill, Gloria, Danny, George and Lela Gaither, Vestal, Howard, Eva Mae, Mary Tom Speer, George and Glen, J. D., Brock, Rex, Guy and David. Guy Penrod is one of the godliest people I've ever known. He's consistent, solid, always the same, and sings with incredible passion every night. David is smart, hysterically funny, and is without a doubt the greatest tenor who ever walked on a stage, period.
Yes, I have successfully graduated from Gaither University. From henceforth I shall be referred to as, Dr. Lowry. I got my Bachelors, Masters and finally,my Doctorate. And so now, with hat in hand, I make my exit.
I am resigning as baritone of The Gaither Vocal Band.
I have been a part of the Vocal Band longer than any previous or present member...excluding Bill, of course. Therefore, I gots the most education.
Seriously, I was nervous, last week, when I called Bill and told him I was resigning. I had talked with Gloria, David, Anthony, Russ, nearly everybody but Bill. I wanted to meet with him once I'd made my final decision. I had prayed about this for over a year. I called Bill and told him I would like to have a meeting with him. I've never called before and requested a meeting. We usually handle everything over the phone. So he knew something was up. He said, "Are you gonna quit me?" I said, "Well, if you're gonna make me tell you over the phone...yes." I told Bill I would stay with him until he found my replacement, but no longer than Jubilate', New Year's Eve 2001. He said, "Well, I asked you to commit to three years and you stayed for thirteen...let's just thank God for thirteen great years." I figured he was about to say, "I thought you'd NEVER leave. <smile>
When I hung up the phone, I said, "What a great man!" He could've applied pressure. Or tried to talk me out of my decision. But, he said, "Let's just thank God for thirteen great years." I love that. And, I do thank God for thirteen great years.
I will miss singing with the guys. But, I'm looking forward to the next adventure. I look at life as a book of chapters...seasons, if you will. I have no idea what the next season will bring. That chapter hasn't been written yet. But I can't wait to find out what it is.
I have no plans but to rest these weary bones. I'm going to write, think, read, play and most of all just relax and see what happens. I want to see how bored I can get.
*Of course, all solo concert obligations scheduled through February 7, 2002 will be fulfilled.
**And, of course, my ramblings will continue.
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Hey! Hey! Hey! I'm leaving The Gaither Vocal Band...not the planet! (Thank you, Donb for that quote.) You're not getting rid of me that easy. <smile>
I'm just going to take a break.
To clarify a few things. I will stay with the Vocal Band until Bill finds my replacement, but not beyond New Year's Eve, Jubilate'.
Beyond New Year's Eve I have a few solo concerts, the last one being on February 7, 2002. Then, my year off will begin.
I've got enough saved to make it awhile. I think/hope I've been a good steward of what God has given me. But, nevertheless, it's just me. And I can live on tuna fish for quite a long time. I love the stuff.
I make a mean tuna fish sandwich. I put mayonnaise, tuna (drained), pickle relish, onion, garlic salt, chopped apple, a lot of black pepper and a dab of mustard. Then I toast the bread (that gives you the crunch you need when you eat.) Grab a bag of Cheetoe Puffs and you've got a great meal.
Oh, and you must have a Dr. Pepper with that.
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Special Letter from Bill Gaither
I just received an email (I'm on Bill's email list) from Bill Gaither. Here's what he released to his e-mailing list:
Dear Friends,
If there is anything I've learned during the past 40 years, it is this: the only thing constant is change. And the more I live, the more challenging it is to try to guess what the Lord has next. I know He has great things ahead for the Gaither Vocal Band, but after December 31st, Mark Lowry will no longer be our baritone. Mark publicly announced his plans early this morning to friends and fans, and we support him as he moves on to the next phase of his life.
I appreciate all he has brought to the group during his 13 years with us and I know he has meant a great deal to many of you; and for that reason we want you to know that he will continue to be close to us, and will remain an important part of our lives for many years to come.
We haven't heard the last of Mark Lowry!
-Bill Gaither"
This was my post...and how I feel...
"For all those concerned, I am fine. If anyone is wondering if Elisa's life can go on, I'm here to tell you it can. Christ is the center of my life, not Mark Lowry, and yes, his ministry is moving on, but it doesn't mean my life can't. I admit I was shocked and this is something I never expected, but it is also something between God and Mark. Mark believes this is what God wants him to do, so I am very happy for him. What better blessing than to follow God's will for your life.
Mark, I cannot begin to tell you how much you are going to be missed and how those concerts just won't be the same, but at the same time, I know God's got something in mind for you. I am glad you will keep in touch with us and I will certainly be looking forward to seeing you in PA and NJ and to say goodbye. I can't say I won't cry or be sad, but I am happy for you. You just continue to follow wherever God may lead you and perhaps one day paths may cross again.
So while a season may end with the vocal band, another brand new season will begin for you Mark. I pray it brings you God's wonderful blessings and all the incredible things He has in store for you.
I love you Mark, and no matter where you may go, my enthusiasm and joy that came from knowing you will never change. You will always hold a very special place in my heart. May God keep you as one seasons ends and a new season begins..."
