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MICHAEL
W. SMITH AND STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN WRAP UP A
SUCCESSFUL RUN OF DATES INCLUDING 14 SOLD OUT
SHOWS ON "THE UNITED TOUR"
Smith
Readies for Christmas Tour Which Launches Nov.
29 Chapman's "Yours" tops radio
chart for his 45th No. 1
(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) November
11, 2008 - Two GRAMMY® award-winning
and multi-Platinum selling artists, Steven Curtis
Chapman and Michael W. Smith joined forces for
the "The United Tour" which concluded
in St. Augustine, Fl. on November 8.
Smith and
Chapman performed together in 20 major markets
with 14 completely sold out shows and a cumulative
audience of more than 50,000. In addition to
uniting on stage, the two also brought their
ministry passions together. Through a ground
breaking partnership between Chapman's
ministry dedicated to orphan care, Shaohannah's
Hope (www.ShowHope.org) and Smith's long-time
ministry partner, Compassion International (www.compassion.com)
more than 2,000 orphaned children in Compassion's
program around the world were sponsored as a
result of the tour.
Andrew Kaplan, with Chicago-based
JAM concerts, shared, "Each of these beautiful
evening concerts offered terrific variety. Fans
were very moved and there was such a feeling
of community in the room."
"This
has truly been one of the greatest tours we've
had the privilege to participate in," said
Chaz Corzine, Michael W. Smith's manager. "Michael
and Steven have been friends for years and really
connected on a creative level while overseas
together working on the Compassionart project.
I think they have such great respect for each
other and each other's music; it was inevitable
they'd eventually work together."
"We're
grateful to have been a part of this memorable
and historic event," commented Chapman's
manager Jim Houser. "The collaboration
and partnership on tour of these two incredible
men was a long time coming, but well worth the
wait."
Chapman commented, "This time
on the road with my great friend and touring
partner Michael was truly a gift. In this difficult
season, I wasn't sure how I would be able
to do it. I'm grateful to all involved
and look forward to the chance to join together
again soon."
STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN PERFORMS "CINDERELLA" LIVE
FOR THE FIRST TIME ON NATIONAL TELEVISION ON CBS' THE EARLY SHOW, WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 10
ALSO APPEARING ON FOX AND FRIENDS ON SEPT. 22
NASHVILLE, TN....SEPT. 9, 2008.... Steven Curtis Chapman performs his hit single "Cinderella" LIVE for the first time on national television since the loss of his five-year-old daughter, Maria. Chapman will appear on The Early Show on CBS on Wednesday, Sept.10 at 7AM (EST). The five-time GRAMMY Award winner will also be appearing and performing on Fox and Friends on Sept. 22.
A tribute to Maria will be made on The Early Show along with the debut performance of the new rendition of "Cinderella," Chapman's second single from his sixteenth studio album This Moment. Chapman was originally scheduled to appear on The Early Show for a Father's Day Special, but due to the accident the appearance was postponed.
The song was inspired by Maria and her sisters and is a message to all parents encouraging them to cherish every moment with their children. The singer/songwriter is also changing the poignant last line in live performances to "Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight/But the truth is... The dance goes on." "Cinderella" carries a whole new meaning since the death of his daughter, and it is one that remains close to his heart.
The Chapman family testimony has had such a huge impact on America. The latest example being People magazine's fifth mention of the family in recent months, this time a family update in the "Mail Bag" section of their Sept.15 issue on newsstands now.
Fans and supporters have also been tuning into The House Mix blog (http://chapmanchannel.typepad.com/jim/) written by Chapman's manager, Jim Houser. Since it's public launch in June 2007, there have been 6 million page views on the blog. Over 5.7 million of those views coming since May 21, 2008 and the tragic loss of Maria Sue Chapman. The blog has become the inadvertent line of connection for friends and fans to the Chapmans through this difficult time, and the traffic statistics highlight the amazing devotion and care to Steven and his family. Houser keeps readers updated with the latest Chapman information and photos, giving an inside look at the Chapman family.
FOCUS ON THE FAMILY'S DR. JAMES DOBSON AIRS "THE GOD OF ALL COMFORT,"
A SPECIAL SERIES FEATURING STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN AUG. 25-27
Aug. 22, 2008…Nashville, TN…For three days next week, Aug. 25-27 Focus On The Family's Dr. James Dobson will air a special series aptly titled "The God Of All Comfort," featuring Steven Curtis Chapman on Dobson's daily broadcast. In the moving and compelling interview, Chapman shares some of the journey God has taken the family on since the loss of his five-year-old daughter Maria Sue.
Focus On The Family is based in Colorado Springs, CO and has a daily syndicated radio show heard on 2,000 outlets nationwide and on focusonthefamily.com. The broadcast also airs a 90 second commentary on 300 general market stations throughout the U.S. The show deals with contemporary issues that affect the modern American family, from a Christian perspective.
To check the radio times and broadcast listings of "The God Of All Comfort" please visit
http://listen.family.org/daily/A000001488.cfm. The schedule for the series is as follows:
August 25- "The God of All Comfort-I"
August 26-"The God of All Comfort-II"
August 27-"The God of All Comfort-III"
In addition, today, Aug. 22, Dobson, who has been a friend of Chapman's for years, will be re-airing an interview from 2001 with the multi-platinum selling artist where Chapman shares his heart for adoption and the adoption ministry he and his wife Mary Beth founded, Shaohannah's Hope.
Chapman is also receiving extensive airtime with new single "Yours (new verse)"which has just released to Christian radio with an additional verse that acknowledges the tragic loss and faithfulness to the Chapman family through this difficult time. It is off to a fast start with 33 adds in its debut week and 19 adds this week. This early traction of airplay makes "Yours (new verse)" the track with the most increased spins and the highest debut on the R&R AC Monitored and Indicator charts at No. 25. The song is available digitally at major DSP's with proceeds after expenses benefitting Maria's Miracle Fund at Shaohannah's Hope.
("Yours (new verse)" is available for purchase via digital service providers including iTunes ®, Amazon, Rhapsody, Napster, etc, with 100% of Chapman's royalties from the sales of this single being donated to Shaohannah's Hope. Producer Matt Bronlewee and co-writer on "Yours" Jonas Myrin have also joined the effort with 100% of their royalties from the single going to Shaohannah's Hope, and additionally monies received by Sparrow records from the sales of this single, after deduction of expenses and royalties, will be donated to Shaohannah's Hope. Shaohannah's Hope is a 501C(3) organization whose goal is to help families reduce the financial barrier of adoption, and as of July 2008 has provided grants to over 1700 families wishing to adopt orphans in the United States and around the world. For more details on Maria's Miracle Fund and Shaohannah's Hope, please visit www.showhope.org.)
WOW Hits 2009
(Nashville, Tenn.) August 19, 2008 - Word Entertainment announces its continuing partnership in the WOW brand with the October 7 release of WOW Hits 2009. The release marks the return of the best-selling series to the two-disc format and will bring consumers the top hits from today's favorite Christian artists at the lowest double-disc WOW price ever.
Also releasing October 7 is the WOW Hits 2009 DVD, featuring over 20 selections from the year's top Christian artists and music video hits. Both the CD and DVD will receive prime positioning throughout the holiday season at all Christian and mainstream retail outlets.
Featuring 30 songs on two CDs, the WOW Hits 2009 compilation provides Christian music fans performances from today's top Christian artists. The songs offered on the double disc feature today's top Christian songs including Steven Curtis Chapman's "Cinderella," Chris Tomlin's "Jesus Messiah," Casting Crowns' "Every Man," Third Day's "Call My Name," Mercy Me's "God With Us," Natalie Grant's "In Better Hands," Point Of Grace's "How You Live (Turn Up The Music)," TobyMac's "Lose My Soul," Jeremy Camp's "Let It Fade," David Crowder Band's "Everything Glorious," Relient K's "The Best Thing" and Michael W. Smith's, "Mighty To Save (Live)" among others.
A portion of the proceeds from this year's WOW project will be donated to Maria's Miracle Fund at Shaohannah's Hope, a ministry founded by Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman that gives grants to Christian families who are adopting and mobilizes the body of Christ to care for orphans. Each WOW purchase will help neglected special needs orphans receive the love, care, and surgeries they need through Maria's Miracle Fund, set up in memory of the Chapman's youngest adopted daughter.
The Word release is part of the multi-platinum WOW brand series. Created through the partnership between the three largest Christian music/entertainment companies in the industry, including Word Entertainment, EMI Christian Music Group and Provident Music Group, the marketing and distribution of WOW projects are shared among the companies, with Word leading efforts for WOW Hits 2009.
For more information, visit www.wordlabelgroup.com <http://www.wordlabelgroup.com/>
‘PEOPLE' MAGAZINE TO RUN EXCLUSIVE, 6 PAGE FEATURE ON
STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN AND FAMILY THIS WEEK
August 14, 2008
*In an exclusive, first print interview since the tragic loss of their daughter and sister Maria Sue Chapman on May 21st, and following emotional appearances last week on GOOD MORNING AMERICA and LARRY KING LIVE, Steven Curtis Chapman, his wife Mary Beth, and children Emily, Caleb and Will, share their memories of Maria, their faith in God, and their strong love for each other with PEOPLE magazine staff writer Eileen Finan in the issue that hits news stands this Friday, August 15th. A preview of the story is now up on the front page of their website PEOPLE Magazine has a circulation between 3 to 4 million people each week.
*Last week's appearance on GOOD MORNING AMERICA can be viewed by going to Chapman's website at http://www.stevencurtischapman.com. In addition, the LARRY KING LIVE interview can be seen by going to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9u8T3dL8KYo. Also be sure to check out Larry King's personal comments about the Chapman's appearance on his program last week: Click here.
*Chapman has also launched a new radio single with "Yours" which received an incredible 21 adds this week on R&R's Christian AC chart. Chapman has written a new verse for the song as a part of the family's acknowledgement of the tragedy and God's faithfulness to them through this difficult time. "Yours" will be available for purchase via digital service providers including iTunes ®, Amazon, Rhapsody, Napster, etc. as of August 5th, with 100% of Chapman's royalties from the sales of this single being donated to Shaohannah's Hope. Producer Matt Bronlewee and co-writer on "Yours" Jonas Myrin have also joined the effort with 100% of their royalties from the single going to Shaohannah's Hope, and additionally monies received by Sparrow records from the sales of this single, after deduction of expenses and royalties, will be donated to Shaohannah's Hope. Shaohannah's Hope is a 501C(3) organization whose goal is to help families reduce the financial barrier of adoption, and as of July 2008 has provided grants to over 1700 families wishing to adopt orphans in the United States and around the world. For more details on Maria's Miracle Fund and Shaohannah's Hope, please visit www.showhope.org.
With his release of THIS MOMENT, Chapman has sold over ten million records including two RIAA certified platinum albums and seven RIAA certified gold albums. Along with his Dove and GRAMMY © awards, Chapman has won an American Music Award, has recorded 44 No. 1 US radio hits and been awarded 54 Dove Awards, more than any other artist to date. Since his recording career began in 1987, Chapman has recorded sixteen projects with Sparrow Records. He has performed at the White House and has appeared on multiple national programs via CBS, NBC, ABC, CNN, MSNBC, CMT, FOX20News, the Hallmark Channel and E!, including Good Morning America, Larry King Live, CBS Sunday Morning, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and more. More than five years ago, Chapman and his wife Mary Beth created The Shaohannah's Hope Ministry after bringing their first adopted daughter, Shaohannah, home=2 0from Chi na. The ministry's goal is to help families reduce the financial barrier of adoption, and has provided grants to over 1700 families wishing to adopt orphans from around the world.
SHAOHANNAH'S HOPE ANNOUNCES "MARIA'S BIG HOUSE OF HOPE";
Special Needs Healing Home In China Named In Loving Memory
Of Maria Sue Chapman, Daughter Of Steven Curtis And Mary Beth Chapman;
Over $635,000 Donated To Maria's Miracle Fund
August 6, 2008 - Nashville, TN - Shaohannah's Hope, the adoption and orphan care ministry founded by Steven and Mary Beth Chapman, have announced the official name of their special needs healing home as Maria's Big House of Hope, named in loving memory of their five-year old daughter, Maria Sue Chapman. Located in Luoyang, China, Maria's Big House of Hope will care for orphans with medical impairments, such as cleft palate, clubbed feet, urological disorders, blindness, and neurological disorders.
Maria's Big House of Hope is currently in the building stages and is set to tentatively open their doors this October. Funded by Shaohannah's Hope and managed by New Hope Foundation, upon completion this healing home will stand to be a six-floor, 60,000 sq. ft. facility and equipped with everything required to care for orphans with special needs. This will be the biggest of its kind, able to provide for over 100 children at a time.
Luoyang, which has a population of around six million people, is located within the Henan province of China and is one of the poorest provinces in the country. The state-run Luoyang orphanage currently takes care of nearly 700 children and tends to most of the special needs orphans from all around Henan. To care for the specific medical needs of these orphans, Maria's Big House of Hope will provide the much-needed surgeries and medical attention, as well as be a bridge to give them hope and the love they deserve. In turn, there is hope these children will then be adopted into forever families.
The Chapman family chose to build the healing home in Luoyang, China because of the area's desperate need for special needs orphan care as well as wanting to give back to the country that has given so much to them - three loving daughters: Shaohannah Hope, Stevey Joy, and Maria Sue.
"We are not in the business of building orphanages, but rather building hope in the lives of orphans and vulnerable children in a way that honors God," states Scott Hasebalg, Executive Director, Shaohannah's Hope.
MARIA'S MIRACLE FUND
Shaohannah's Hope also announces that to date, over $635,000 had been given to the Shaohannah's Hope's Maria's Miracle Fund in loving memory of Maria Sue. The ministry continues to be overwhelmed and thankful with the prayers and generosity from people all over the world, and there are still not enough words to be able to express the deepest gratitude for these donations. Due to the munificence of these offerings, this ministry continues to give hope and support to orphans around the world to find forever families. Though outpouring of generosity has been incredible, there is still tremendous need. Shaohannah's Hope looks forward to further partnering with donors to change the lives of orphans.
+ How you can help +
Visit: www.ShowHope.org
Or by mail: Shaohannah's Hope, c/o Maria's Miracle Fund, PO Box 647, Franklin TN, 37065
ABOUT SHAOHANNAH'S HOPE:
Based in Franklin, Tennessee, Shaohannah's Hope is the adoption and orphan care ministry founded by Steven and Mary Beth Chapman. Its mission is to care for orphans by engaging the church and prospective adoptive parents reduce the financial barrier to adoption. Shaohannah's Hope accomplishes this by awarding financial grants to qualified families already in the process of adopting. The size of the grant awarded is determined by several factors, the most important being need. To find out more about Shaohannah's Hope, Maria's Miracle Fund, Maria's Big House, the Change For Orphans campaign, Stevey Joy Club, and much more, please visit www.ShowHope.org.
MICHAEL W. SMITH AND STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN
TEAM UP FOR THE FIRST TIME ON "THE UNITED TOUR"
Tour Brings Two of Christian Music's Most Influential Artists
Together For Performances In More than 20 Major Markets This Fall
(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) August 4, 2008 - Two GRAMMY® award-winning and multi-Platinum selling artists, Michael W. Smith and Steven Curtis Chapman, join forces for the "The United Tour" which kicks off October 9 in Columbus, Ohio and concludes in St. Augustine, Florida on November 8.
This unique tour showcases two of Christian Music's most recognized and beloved artists. Together, Chapman and Smith have garnered a staggering eight GRAMMY ® awards, 96 Dove Awards, 77 No. 1 singles and more than 30 Gold and Platinum albums. The idea for the tour came together shortly after Chapman and Smith spent time together in the UK working on the "Compassionart project" that brought more than 10 of Christian Music's most revered singers, songwriters and worship leaders together to write and record a collection of songs, for charity.
Both artists will perform music from their current and upcoming albums: Chapman's This Moment (10/23/07) and Smith's A New Hallelujah (10/28/08). This also marks the first tour for Chapman since his family's loss of their daughter Maria.
Pre-sale tickets for this landmark tour are available now on each artist's fan-sites: www.michaelwsmith.com and www.stevencurtischapman.com <http://www.stevencurtischapman.com/> . In addition, Smith's long-time ministry partner, Compassion International (www.compassion.com) and Chapman's adoption ministry Shaohannah's Hope (www.shaohannahshope.org) will benefit from the tour. (For further information on how to support either cause, please visit their respective websites.)
"THE UNITED TOUR" Fall 2008
*Dates, markets and venues subject to change without notice.
OCTOBER
Thursday October 9th Columbus, OH Palace Theatre
Friday October 10th Cincinnati, OH Aronoff Center
Saturday October 11th Roanoke, VA Civic Center Auditorium
Tuesday October 14th McMurry, PA South Hills Bible Church
Thursday October 16th Myrtle Beach, SC The Beach Church
Friday October 17th Atlanta, GA Cobb Energy Centre
Saturday October 18th Spartanburg, SC Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium
Sunday October 19th Birmingham, AL Wright Center
Thursday October 23rd Tulsa, OK Spirit Bank Events Center
Friday October 24th Omaha, NE Holland Center
Saturday October 25th Waukegan, IL Genesee Theatre
Sunday October 26th Merrillville, IN Star Plaza Theatre
Wednesday October 29th Lowell, MA Lowell Memorial Auditorium
Thursday October 30th Rochester, NY Auditorium Theatre
Friday October 31st Bethesda, MD Music Center at Strathmore
NOVEMBER
Saturday November 1st Albany, NY Palace Theatre
Wednesday November 5th Ft. Lauderdale, FL Broward Center
Thursday November 6th Sebring, FL FL Community College
Friday November 7th Clearwater, FL Ruth Eckerd Hall
Saturday November 8th St. Augustine, FL St. Augustine Amphitheatre
About Steven Curtis Chapman:
Steven Curtis Chapman has sold over ten million records including two RIAA certified platinum albums and seven RIAA certified gold albums. Along with his Dove and GRAMMY ® awards, Chapman has won an American Music Award, has recorded 44 No. 1 US radio hits and been awarded 54 Dove Awards, more than any other artist to date. Since his recording career began in 1987, Chapman has recorded sixteen projects with Sparrow Records.
He has performed at the White House and has appeared on multiple national programs via CBS, NBC, ABC, CNN, MSNBC, CMT, FOX News, the Hallmark Channel and E!, including Good Morning America, Larry King Live, CBS Sunday Morning, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and more. More than five years ago, Chapman and his wife MaryBeth created Shaohannah's Hope after bringing their first adopted daughter, Shaohannah, home from China. The ministry's goal is to help families reduce the financial barrier of adoption, and has provided grants to over 1700 families wishing to adopt orphans from around the world. For further information on Shaohannah's Hope the adoption ministry of Steven Curtis Chapman, please visit: www.stevencurtischapman.com.
"Yours" will be the third single off This Moment with an additional verse recently written and recorded that allowed Chapman to acknowledge his experience with losing a child. "Yours" follows the hit Christian and mainstream single "Cinderella" a song written by Chapman compelling us to cherish every moment to the fullest with those that we love, especially our children.
About Michael W. Smith:
Throughout his 25-year career as a recording artist, Michael W. Smith has amassed an impressive catalog of achievements. His 20 albums have garnered multiple honors including an American Music Award, 3 GRAMMY ® Awards (from 13 nominations), 42 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards and 33 No. 1 radio hits. In addition, he holds 16 Gold and 5 Platinum albums for career sales approaching 15 million.
Smith has scored several film projects, written 11 books and has been featured by media outlets including, NBC's Today Show, Good Morning America, NBC Nightly News, Larry King Live, FOX and Friends, Hannity and Colmes, USA Today, NY Times, The Washington Post, LA Times, Newsweek, has been named one of People Magazine's Most Beautiful People and has presented multiple times on the GRAMMY Awards show. His tours consistently rank among the best attended in the country and he has performed to capacity crowds throughout the world. Constantly giving back to the community, one of his current projects is Rocketown - a nightclub for teens in his hometown of Nashville, Tenn. - which serves as safe place for young people to enjoy music and for artists to be discovered. He is married to Debbie Smith and they are the proud parents of five children.
Michael W. Smith's 21st album, A New Hallelujah, was recorded live before more than 12,000 in attendance with a choir of 250 and a few very special guests including The African Children's Choir and worship leader Israel Houghton. A New Hallelujah releases on October 28, 2008.
Smith's first worship album, simply titled Worship, released on September 11, 2001 and has sold more than a million-and-a half copies. It's follow up Worship Again released September 19, 2002 and is nearing the 800,000 mark.
STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN & FAMILY OPEN THEIR HEARTS TO AMERICA
Family to Appear on GOOD MORNING AMERICA, LARRY KING LIVE and in PEOPLE magazine
New Single "Yours" goes to radio and DSPs with Additional Verse
NASHVILLE, TN....AUGUST 4, 2008....GRAMMY and Dove Award winning artist Steven Curtis Chapman, along with his wife Mary Beth, and eldest children Emily, Caleb, and Will, will soon be opening their hearts to America about the loss of their daughter and sister Maria Chapman this past May 21st. GOOD MORNING AMERICA will air a special interview with Robin Roberts from The Chapman's home in Franklin on August 6th, followed by a live interview from Los Angeles on LARRY KING LIVE on August 7th, and an extensive feature in an upcoming issue of PEOPLE magazine. The decision to speak publicly was not an easy one, and these will be the first interviews the family has participated in since Maria's death.
"Initially Steven talked about never doing any concerts or media ever again," comments Jim Houser, Chapman's manager. "But quickly God began to show Steven that if he ever believed the songs he was writing, singing and recording before May 21st and Maria's loss, that they must still be true now. It's the family's hope that these appearances with serve as a chance to proclaim to a watching world what they know and are deeply convinced of even in these difficult days, the Gospel is true and faith in Christ is our Hope."
As a part of the family's acknowledgement of the tragedy and God's faithfulness to them through this difficult time, Chapman has also written a new verse to his song "Yours" from his current project, "THIS MOMENT":
I've walked the valley of death's shadow
So deep and dark that I could barely breathe
I've had to let go of more than I could bear
And questioned everything that I believe
But still even here
in this great darkness
A comfort and hope come breaking through
As I can say in life or death
God we belong to you.
"Yours" is the follow-up single to his hit "Cinderella," a song written about Maria and her sisters, for which Chapman is also now changing the poignant last line in life performance to "'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight/But the truth is... The dance goes on." "Yours" will be available for purchase via digital service providers including iTunes ®, Amazon, Rhapsody, Napster, etc. as of August 5th, with 100% of Chapman's royalties from the sales of this single being donated to Shaohannah's Hope. Producer Matt Bronlewee and co-writer on "Yours" Jonas Myrin have also joined the effort with 100% of their royalties from the single going to Shaohannah's Hope, and additionally monies received by Sparrow records from the sales of this single, after deduction of expenses and royalties, will be donated to Shaohannah's Hope. Shaohannah's Hope is a 501C(3) organization whose goal is to help families reduce the financial barrier of adoption, and as of July 2008 has provided grants to over 1700 families wishing to adopt orphans in the United States and around the world. For more details on Maria's Miracle Fund and Shaohannah's Hope, please visit www.showhope.org.
WITH CONTINUED GRATITUDE, FROM SHAOHANNAH'S HOPE
Over $500,000 Is Donated To Maria's Miracle Fund
June 19, 2008 - Nashville, TN - It was recently announced that over $310,000 had been donated in two weeks to Shaohannah's Hope's Maria's Miracle Fund. This fund was set up in honor of Maria Sue Chapman, the 5-year old daughter of Steven and Mary Beth Chapman, who lost her life from a tragic accident at their home on May 21, 2008.
As of this week, over $500,000 has been donated to Maria's Miracle Fund. There are not enough words to be able to express the deepest gratitude from the Chapman family and the Shaohannah's Hope ministry for these donations. This is an overwhelming and honorable tribute to such a spirit-filled family and a beautiful young girl. Due to the generosity of these donations, this ministry continues to give hope and support to orphans around the world to find forever families.
In the words of Scott Hasenbalg, Executive Director of Shaohannah's Hope, "For the Maria's Miracle Fund to surpass a half a million dollars in such a short amount of time is remarkable, especially knowing it wasn't just one person writing one big check but rather that number represents hundreds of people demonstrating their thoughtfulness and love for the Chapmans and what we do as a ministry. We are extremely aware of the responsibility we have to carry out our mission and be a good stewards of every dollar that comes into our ministry."
To find out more about Maria and how she became a Chapman, visit ShowHope.org and choose "Remembering Maria." Most of all, we ask that you continue to keep the Chapman family and the Shaohannah's Hope ministry and staff in your thoughts and prayers.
+ How you can help +
Visit: www.ShowHope.org <http://www.ShowHope.org/>
Or by mail: Shaohannah's Hope, c/o Maria's Miracle Fund, PO Box 647, Franklin TN, 37065
WITH MUCH GRATITUDE, FROM SHAOHANNAH'S HOPE
Maria's Miracle Fund
June 10, 2008 - Nashville, TN - Shaohannah's Hope, the adoption and orphan care ministry founded by Steven and Mary Beth Chapman, would like to extend their deepest gratitude for the generosity of prayers as well as donations offered upon the memory of Maria Sue Chapman. The enormous response has been truly overwhelming, it has not gone unnoticed, and is so graciously appreciated.
Scott Hasenbalg, the ministry's Executive Director, states, "People have not just been praying for the Chapman family, but crying out to God for them and their healing."
On behalf of the staff of Shaohannah's Hope, which is based in Franklin, Tennessee, Hasenbalg continues, "While we don't comprehend God's ways all the time, we have a deeper sense of our responsibility to carry out the mission that began more than five years ago. We are committed to working hard together as a team to be a good steward of the support that has been poured into this ministry. We are filled with sadness for this tragedy, but also gratitude to all who has responded with their love, prayers and support."
As previously reported, the Chapman family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations can be given in memory of Maria to Shaohannah's Hope Maria's Miracle Fund. In less than two weeks, thousands of you have responded and over $425,000 has been raised in honor of Maria. Thanks to the generosity of these donations, the ministry of Shaohannah's Hope continues to give hope and support to orphans around the world to find forever families. In the coming days, more information will be announced regarding the donations offered towards Maria's Miracle Fund. There is much hope during this time of sadness.
Please continue to keep the Chapman family and the Shaohannah's Hope ministry and staff in your prayers.
+ How to donate +
Visit: www.ShowHope.org
Or by mail: Shaohannah's Hope, c/o Maria's Miracle Fund, PO Box 647, Franklin TN, 37065
A few words from Dan Raines and Jim Houser, managers of Steven Curtis Chapman:
Dear Friends,
It has been a little over a week since the horrible accident that put Maria Chapman in Jesus' arms. These have been dark and trying days of deep sadness. The Chapman family is struggling with grief and wrestling to come to terms with the new normal. It will be a long road. And yet, we want you to know that we see them holding on to the truth of Gospel, just as we hope we would, just as you expect they might. It is not a false strength, nor a false hope. It is authentic sorrow and true belief simultaneously.
Steven, Mary Beth and the entire Chapman extended family has asked that we thank each of you who have prayed for this family. They are overwhelmed with your good care and an unearthly strength to carry on that they believe is from your prayers sustaining them.
In addition, Scott Hasenbalg, the director of Shaohannah's Hope, is also deeply moved by your generosity. Scott says that "In so many ways we all lost a little sister and we don't have the words to describe how we all feel at Shaohannah's Hope. We are overwhelmed at how many people have generously given to Maria's Miracle Fund and we have a strong sense of the responsibility we now carry to steward the fund and the calling in a way that would honor God, Maria and the Chapman family." Donations to Maria's Miracle Fund already total more than $275,000. Exciting and humbling. Thank you.
Your condolences do comfort and if you've not yet had the opportunity to drop a note and "meet Maria" through a short video clip we've posted, I'd encourage you to visit the In Memory of Maria at StevenCurtisChapman.com.
In closing, it seems awkward to us that we released an album, "The Cinderella Edition" of THIS MOMENT, just days after the loss of Maria. And yet, as many of you know this edition of the album had been planned for several months, based on the success and impact of the song "Cinderella." Perhaps, it's more important than ever that the message of this song reach as many people as possible. May God be Glorified.
Again, we're so grateful for your support and prayers for the Chapman family,
Dan Raines & Jim Houser
Creative Trust
MARIA SUE CHAPMAN, DAUGHTER OF STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN,
DIES IN ACCIDENT AT FAMILY HOME
NASHVILLE, TN...5/21/08... At approximately 5pm on the afternoon of Wednesday May 21st, Maria Sue Chapman, 5 years old and the youngest daughter to Steven and Mary Beth Chapman was struck in the driveway of the Chapman home in Franklin, TN. Maria was rushed to Vanderbilt Childrens Hospital in Nashville, transported by LifeFlight, but died of her injuries there. Maria is one of the close knit family's six children and one of their three adopted daughters.
More than five years ago, Chapman and his wife MaryBeth founded The Shaohannah's Hope Ministry after bringing their first adopted daughter, Shaohannah, home from China. The ministry's goal is to help families reduce the financial barrier of adoption, and has provided grants to over 1700 families wishing to adopt orphans from around the world. Chapman is a five-time GRAMMY ® winner and 54-time Dove Award winning artist who has sold over 10 million albums and garnered 44 No. 1 singles
SHAOHANNAH'S HOPE PARTNERS WITH JOY FM-ST. LOUIS;
Sharathon Raises $53,904 For Special Needs Orphans In China
Nashville, TN - March 10, 2008 - Shaohannah's Hope, the orphan care and adoption ministry founded by Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman, recently partnered with JOY-FM Radio/St. Louis, raising close to $54,000 with their Sharathon partnership.
With an amazing 581 calls received from radio listeners, in just 12 hours a total of $53,906.99 was pledged for Shaohannah's Hope. The money raised is specifically going to help care for special needs orphans in China. These funds will help finance medical expenses and surgical needs for orphans prior to being adopted, or who may never be adopted.
JOY FM-St. Louis, a station that has been making enormous efforts for its community and around the world, knew the partnership with Shaohannah's Hope would be a perfect fit. The station already holds its own monthly different outreach projects, titled "PROJECT:JOY."
"Some monthly efforts focus on our own community while others get our listeners involved around the world," explains Sandi Brown, General Manager for JOY FM-St. Louis, a 24- hour listener supported CCM station. "Our listeners are familiar with Steven Curtis Chapman and his passion for adoption, so we decided to focus on orphan care for special needs orphaned children through Shaohannah's Hope. The goal was to help provide care and needed surgeries for children who are often overlooked for adoption. It obviously resonated with our listeners because the phones rang for 12 straight hours!"
With JOY FM's Sharathon success as well as last month's concert tour stop in Houston, which raised over $16,000 for the Change For Orphans campaign, there is hope that more local radio stations, restaurants, and other businesses can recognize the success of such efforts and do their part to help make an impact for the world's orphans.
"Considering Joy FM is a listener supported radio station, for them to give up a full day of airtime for the plight of orphans says a lot about their Christ-like values as a radio station," comments Scott Hasenbalg, Executive Director of Shaohannah's Hope. "I believe it delights our Father in heaven when the body of Christ works together for a common cause and we were blessed beyond our imagination."
What Can YOU Do?
The Shaohannah's Hope ministry cares for orphans by engaging the church and helping Christian families reduce the financial barrier to adoption. Please consider donating to Shaohannah's Hope by visiting www.shaohannahshope.org and click the Donate Now button. Thank you!
For more information re: Shaohannah's Hope, please contact:
Stacie A. Vining, Vining Media Relations
p/f. 615.781.0016 / c. 615.260.4679
e. ViningMedia@comcast.net
www.shaohannahshope.org
| COMPASSIONART HOSTS MULTIPLE GRAMMY, DOVE AWARD WINNING ARTISTS AT INTERNATIONAL
SONGWRITER'S RETREAT JAN. 7 - 11 IN SCOTLAND UK
Songs To Be Forever Donated To Help the Poorest of the Poor
Unprecedented Retreat Features, Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman, Chris Tomlin, Darlene Zschech, Matt and Beth Redman, Tim Hughes, Paul Baloche, Israel Houghton, Graham Kendrick, Andy Park, Stu Garrard and Martin Smith from Delirious?
(Littlehampton, England) December 3, 2007 - Compassionart is hosting internationally recognized songwriters Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman, Chris Tomlin, Darlene Zschech, Matt and Beth Redman, Tim Hughes, Paul Baloche, Israel Houghton, Graham Kendrick, Andy Park, Martin Smith and Stu Garrard (Delirious?), at a gathering in Perthshire, Scotland Jan. 7 - 11. 2008. The songwriters' unprecedented goal is to collectively write 10-12 songs that will be given to the world not just to sing, but to raise money for the relief of suffering around the planet. Together these songwriters account for at least 42 million albums sold, 82 No. 1 songs, nine GRAMMY Awards, 110 Dove Awards, two Stellar Awards, two American Music Awards, and 98 current CCLI Top 500 songs sung by millions in churches around the world. Now, for the first time ever, the songwriters offer their time and talents with one voice to make a stand.
One hundred percent of the proceeds derived from the songs written at the Compassionart retreat will go directly to charity. One half of the monies will go to the songwriters' charity of choice, and the other 50% will go to a charitable project agreed upon by all the songwriters involved.
"Over the last few years I have had the privilege of traveling to some of the poorest parts of the world and seeing first hand the plight of humanity," says Martin Smith, Delirious? frontman and Compassionart founder who is organizing the retreat along with his wife, Anna. "As a song writer and a person with a microphone I made a promise to try and do something about it. What better than to call on my friends and do something together. To be people that can make a change rather than just singing about it."
Remarkably, the songwriters, publishers, managers, copyright institutes and agents involved have all waived their rights and are donating their efforts on this project to Compassionart, a charity based in Littlehampton, England and dedicated to seeing works of art generate income for the poorest of the poor. And this is not a one-time offering or marketing ploy, but an ongoing effort for charity derived over the songs' lifetimes.
"They have all waived their rights to see something historic happen- the music business coming together for something great, greater than any individual could achieve," continues Smith.
The participating songwriters echo their enthusiasm for Compassionart and what it hopes to accomplish:
"I am so grateful to be a part of Compassionart and extremely optimistic of what will come of it. The motivation of this week and all involved so resonates with my heart in regards to the poor. Isaiah 58 is the passage that I go to now more than any other, knowing that if we feed the poor, satisfy the needs of the oppressed and reach out to the downtrodden, the Lord will indeed make His face shine upon us."
-- Michael W. Smith
"I'm eagerly anticipating this time! Coming together for this time of writing with the purpose of helping the poor and oppressed is an honor. Whenever I've had a chance to be with orphans around the world, what many would call the least of the least, God makes it so clear to me that He has not forgotten them, that He is for them and calls them His dearly loved children. I'm praying that this time and collection of people that Martin and Anna Smith have helped call together will be greatly used by God for His glory. And I'm very hopeful that the songs He gives will draw attention to and help those desperately in need."
-- Steven Curtis Chapman
"I know that Compassionart is in the heart of God. I am so honored and thrilled to be a part of it. What an amazing gathering of people and songwriters. I sense that God is going to release His heart on new songs."
-- Chris Tomlin
"Compassionart is definitely here in the timing of God, and there is nothing that stirs His heart like bringing relief to human suffering. Worship and Justice has always been a heaven combination, and Mark and I are completely committed to Martin and Anna and their passion to see the fulfillment of this dream come to pass. So, we enter this season of writing and dreaming with great excitement and a deep sense of responsibility. Put this together with the great bonus of spending a week with some of the people we admire most in the world.... Cannot wait."
-- Darlene Zschech
"We've all talked for years about going deeper in worship - and that though music is such a wonderful expression, we must ultimately go beyond writing songs. This new venture is a great demonstration of that heart. Compassion and art - what a great mix."
-- Matt Redman
"I'm really excited about this opportunity to come together with gifted and inspired songwriters from around the world. Who knows what God might do as we lay down our agendas and work together to write and create God inspired songs that beat with His heart for justice."
-- Tim Hughes
"I'm grateful to be part of such a powerful ‘Kingdom' event. What a beautiful vision to combine art, compassion, and justice in hopes of displaying the heart of God to the world. ‘How good and pleasant it is for brothers to dwell [and write songs of worship] together in unity...for there the Lord bestows a blessing.' (Ps.133) I love the idea of us serving others through song, without seeking anything in return. Let's be praying that God will bless our efforts as we humbly trust Him for inspiration and favor."
-- Paul Baloche
"I am excited at the possibilities of this creative collaboration - not only to bring to birth some great songs that make the praises of God audible, but to help birth projects and release resources that make the love of God tangible to those most vulnerable - the children."
-- Graham Kendrick
"The idea of writing songs that will benefit the needy and broken people of our world really excites me. Gathering with a group of seasoned songwriters to write for the worldwide church and for charity promises to be a great week of fellowship and co-working for the kingdom of God. I'm really looking forward to our time together."
-- Andy Park
"I think what Martin and Anna are doing with Compassionart is brilliant. I'm honored to be involved and in some small way make a difference by doing something I love."
-- Stu Garrard
For more information on the Compassionart songwriter's retreat, go to http://www.compassionart.co.uk/ |
"I'm grateful to be part of such a powerful ‘Kingdom' event. What a beautiful vision to combine art, compassion, and justice in hopes of displaying the heart of God to the world. ‘How good and pleasant it is for brothers to dwell [and write songs of worship] together in unity...for there the Lord bestows a blessing.' (Ps.133) I love the idea of us serving others through song, without seeking anything in return. Let's be praying that God will bless our efforts as we humbly trust Him for inspiration and favor."
-- Paul Baloche
"I am excited at the possibilities of this creative collaboration - not only to bring to birth some great songs that make the praises of God audible, but to help birth projects and release resources that make the love of God tangible to those most vulnerable - the children."
-- Graham Kendrick
"The idea of writing songs that will benefit the needy and broken people of our world really excites me. Gathering with a group of seasoned songwriters to write for the worldwide church and for charity promises to be a great week of fellowship and co-working for the kingdom of God. I'm really looking forward to our time together."
-- Andy Park
"I think what Martin and Anna are doing with Compassionart is brilliant. I'm honored to be involved and in some small way make a difference by doing something I love."
-- Stu Garrard
Remarkably, the songwriters, publishers, managers, copyright institutes and agents involved have all waived their rights and are donating their efforts on this project to Compassionart, a charity based in Littlehampton, England and dedicated to seeing works of art generate income for the poorest of the poor. And this is not a one-time offering or marketing ploy, but an ongoing effort for charity derived over the songs' lifetimes.
"They have all waived their rights to see something historic happen- the music business coming together for something great, greater than any individual could achieve," continues Smith.
The participating songwriters echo their enthusiasm for Compassionart and what it hopes to accomplish:
"I am so grateful to be a part of Compassionart and extremely optimistic of what will come of it. The motivation of this week and all involved so resonates with my heart in regards to the poor. Isaiah 58 is the passage that I go to now more than any other, knowing that if we feed the poor, satisfy the needs of the oppressed and reach out to the downtrodden, the Lord will indeed make His face shine upon us."
-- Michael W. Smith
"I'm eagerly anticipating this time! Coming together for this time of writing with the purpose of helping the poor and oppressed is an honor. Whenever I've had a chance to be with orphans around the world, what many would call the least of the least, God makes it so clear to me that He has not forgotten them, that He is for them and calls them His dearly loved children. I'm praying that this time and collection of people that Martin and Anna Smith have helped call together will be greatly used by God for His glory. And I'm very hopeful that the songs He gives will draw attention to and help those desperately in need."
-- Steven Curtis Chapman
"I know that Compassionart is in the heart of God. I am so honored and thrilled to be a part of it. What an amazing gathering of people and songwriters. I sense that God is going to release His heart on new songs."
-- Chris Tomlin
"Compassionart is definitely here in the timing of God, and there is nothing that stirs His heart like bringing relief to human suffering. Worship and Justice has always been a heaven combination, and Mark and I are completely committed to Martin and Anna and their passion to see the fulfillment of this dream come to pass. So, we enter this season of writing and dreaming with great excitement and a deep sense of responsibility. Put this together with the great bonus of spending a week with some of the people we admire most in the world.... Cannot wait."
-- Darlene Zschech
"We've all talked for years about going deeper in worship - and that though music is such a wonderful expression, we must ultimately go beyond writing songs. This new venture is a great demonstration of that heart. Compassion and art - what a great mix."
-- Matt Redman
"I'm really excited about this opportunity to come together with gifted and inspired songwriters from around the world. Who knows what God might do as we lay down our agendas and work together to write and create God inspired songs that beat with His heart for justice."
-- Tim Hughes
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