Songs of Ascent

Over the years Light Bearers has become associated with a number of talented musicians and songwriters. We’ve often daydreamed about a music tour that would be biblically grounded, of the highest musical quality, and evangelistically savvy. Those dreams have become reality. The first Songs of Ascent Concert Tour took place from April through June 2011. We traveled all over California and featured a themed approach that included original songs by several young, spirited Adventist musicians, most of them being former students of our ARISE evangelism training program. Each concert consists of a Light Bearers speaker interweaving the gospel story through spoken word. We’re so thankful to Jesus for the blessings and success of the tour, which included more than 20 concerts and added 3000 miles to a very carefully and thoroughly packed mini-van. Christ was uplifted and hearts were moved by the gospel-centered music provided by the “musicianaries” (they are musicians and missionaries) that led those attending on the Eden to Eden journey through Scripture. We believe this creative project is just the beginning of a whole new way of “doing” ministry and evangelism. We recently completed our second tour in April and May 2012, which included 12 concerts, throughout the Pacific Northwest (Oregon, Washington, British Columbia). Let the dreams continue!

Musicianaries

He Knows
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ERIC & MONIQUE JOHNSON

The Australian couple met in 2006, fell in love, then decided to serve God together for the rest of their lives. They married in January 2008. That same year, while Eric served at two churches and Monique was a teacher, they realized that even while serving the Lord, they were caught up in materialism and mere cultural Christianity. The next year in 2009 saw them on a journey of learning to trust God while spending time as missionaries in Europe and as students at ARISE. This was an absolutely life-changing experience as God began the process of rebuilding them to be missionaries for Christ. Their debut album, Pilgrim, was released in 2010.

Three Cords

JOSHUA & JACKIE CUNNINGHAM

Joshua, an Australian native, spent 18 years traveling the globe with his band, The Waifs, playing in packed venues and winning numerous music awards. Through various encounters and trials he gave his heart and musical talent to God. All the while, Jackie, also an extremely gifted musician, was on her own journey towards Jesus. Their paths merged in the summer of 2010. God made it clear that these “musical soul mates” were meant to be together and they were wed in February 2011. Now, together, they travel the globe sharing the Gospel through music. Joshua’s first gospel album, Into Tomorrow, was released in 2011.

Walk Through This Valley
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ALISON BROOK

Alison’s recording debut was the song Jesus Little Lamb, which she sang on pitch in a voice only two years old. Twenty years later that voice matured into a vehicle for heavenly messages carried in her songs. Alison began touring during her summer breaks to raise money to record her first album, No Words, which was released in 2009. More important and essential than her talent is Alison’s commitment to the gospel. Her personal life authenticates her message, which is the message of Jesus. Alison’s prayer is the through her music hearts will be moved to accept that gift.

Confessions Of A Prodigal
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MATT & JOSIE MINIKUS

After a conversion at the age of 19, Matt dedicated his life and musical talents to God. He then traveled North America serving in youth ministries and public evangelism. In 2002, he met Josie while she was attending ARISE. During their five-year courtship, they served together in music ministry and Bible work and married in 2008. They currently have a full-time music ministry, while also serving as deans at ARISE. Their first album, Prodigal: The Journey Home, was released in April 2011. Matt and Josie desire their music to be used by God to soften hearts and draw people to Jesus.

2013 Winter Tour

This year Songs of Ascent is touring with a message based in Psalm 103 and it is a message we want to share with everyone.

Because we believe all who come to understand the beauty of God’s character and the many rich blessings He has provided for us, we would be hard pressed to not cry out, ‘Bless the Lord, o my soul!”

Interested in joining us? Check out mattminikus.com or ericandmonique.com for more information about times and dates. We hope to see you there!