40 Years in the Making

Volume 1, Issue 3

40 years in the making

2006 marks the 40th anniversary of Keynote’s ministry! It all began in 1966 when Dr. Bill Bright personally recruited a band composed of University of Minnesota students to join the staff of Campus Crusade for Christ. The band was called the New Folk. (Yep, they sang folk music which was “in” at that time.)

Let us take you on a quick journey of Keynote through the decades:
In the 70s, many music ministry teams begin changing their format to use secular music. As a result, Santa Fe and Prism first begin using ”the music of the culture” to explain the gospel to people in a language they already understand. (Up to this point, Campus Crusade groups had only used originally-written music and Christian music to present the gospel.)

In the 80s several new groups are formed: Counterpoint (1983) – using classical music to reach executives and other business professionals: The Convertibles (1986) – partnering with Student Venture (the high school ministry of Campus Crusade), using a 1950s style rock ‘n roll show to communicate the gospel to teenagers; Vanguard (1988) – an “a cappella” group using only percussion and voices, also reaching executives; and Flashback (1988) – a classic rock band playing at college campuses.

In the 90s, in addition to many new groups, Keynote has major outreaches in several countries, including the Philippines and Russia. In 1994, Singaporean Campus Crusade staff take part with U.S. staff in Keynote music ministry training for staff from 9 countries. Keynote begins its Summer Project program, involving college-age musicians in music ministry training and touring. (To date Keynote has trained over 300 college students in music evangelism and worship leading.)

In the 2000’s, Keynote forms groups such as Chasing Elvis, blue sky nine, Piper Down, X-nelo, and Laredo. By mid-decade, teams are having unprecedented opportunities to share the gospel around the world.

In 2006 Keynote moves into it’s new Worldwide Ministry Center in Westfield, IN. Rehearsal building is scheduled to be completed in 2007.

Thank you for your partnership with us. As exciting as these 40 years have been for Keynote, I believe that God has even more amazing things in store for the future. We’re excited to have you along with us for the ride.

Dark to Light
You are helping people go from the kingdom of darkness (hell) to the kingdom of light (eternal salvation) as Mike and I work behind the scenes equipping, training, supporting our staff that are on the front lines. It is such a privilege to make a difference not just in history but for eternity!

Thank you for partnering in a GREAT cause, investing in the Kingdom of God, changing lives. You are enabling Mike and me to offer our gifts and services because of your partnership. Thank you for saying YES/ participating by investing in the vision God has given us as we are a couple in ministry together.

Prayer Requests:

• As we raise our financial support: Our hearts would hold to God’s promises that He provides for our every need.
• We would choose day by day to live in the power of the Holy Spirit.

The Bible is the Law– Word of the Sovereign King, not merely the advice of a good friend. It reveals the extent of God’s sovereignty and the required response of man. -R.C. Sproul