On April 1st, The Guardians Quartet entered a new chapter as ownership of the group officially transferred from Dean Hickman to John Darin Rowsey. After many years at the helm, Hickman has expressed confidence in the future of the group.
“I’m just so so blessed that we we’ve had these opportunities and have done so well,” said Hickman, reflecting on his time with the Quartet. “Our guys today—you know, with Pat Barker there to helm running the road, uh, John Rousey with his fabulous songwriting and arrangements, Mark Hale with a great production he does in all of our concerts, Tony driving the bus with me for 35 years—so thank you Lord for your blessings in my life. Thank you.”
John Darin Rowsey, who is already well known for his musical talents and arrangements, now takes on a leadership role with the group. The Guardians Quartet continues to be made up of Rowsey, Scott Mullins, Paul Lancaster, and Pat Barker.
Dean Hickman expressed strong support for the team now carrying the group forward. He said, “Our guys today… [are] doing so well,” and added that he believes the group is “in good hands.”
With the transition complete, fans of The Guardians Quartet can expect the same dedication to excellence, both on and off the stage, under Rowsey’s new leadership.
The song “Deep Waters” by the Triumphant Quartet, written by Wayne Haun and Allison Wells, offers a message rooted in faith and scripture. It is part of their 2024 album God Is Listening, released under StowTown Records. This song began airing on Texas Gospel this week, bringing its message of hope and perseverance to listeners.
Provided to YouTube by StowTown Records Deep Waters · Triumphant Quartet God Is Listening ℗ 2024 StowTown Records, LLC Released on: 2024-06-07 Arranger, Composer, Orchestrator, Producer: Wayne Haun Composer: Allison Wells Electric Guitar: Kelly Back
“Deep Waters” draws inspiration from passages like Isaiah 43, emphasizing God’s promise to be with His people during life’s challenges. The lyrics speak to those enduring difficult times, offering reassurance that they are never alone. The song reminds listeners of the strength and peace found in trusting God, who walks with them through life’s metaphorical deep waters.
The song’s structure is reflective and contemplative, featuring Clayton Inman as the lead vocalist. Its slow tempo complements the emotional depth of the lyrics. The composition captures the essence of Christ’s promise in John 16:33, where Jesus encourages believers to find courage because He has overcome the world.
As part of the God Is Listening album, “Deep Waters” continues the group’s tradition of delivering Southern Gospel music with a progressive style. The album showcases the talents of vocalists David Sutton, Sean Barber, Clayton Inman, and Eric Bennett. Each track on the album contributes to a central theme of faith and resilience.
For Gospel music enthusiasts, “Deep Waters” stands out as a heartfelt reminder of God’s unwavering presence in times of trouble. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith and scripture in providing comfort and strength.
LYRICS PROVIDED BY STOWTOWN RECORDS:
Deep Waters Writers: Wayne Haun, Allison Wells
Sometimes life is hard, at times you’ve questioned why And there are moments when you really struggle to survive But there’s a peace that passes understanding, and grace enough to keep your faith alive
When you go through deep waters you never go alone You are loved by the father, and He calls you His own Through storms and waves, He makes a way when all your hope is gone When rivers rise, He hears your cries so just keep holding on When you go through deep waters you never go alone
When the pain is real you’ve lost the words to pray And all the fear is paralyzing your will to be brave Trust the one who speaks to winds and oceans Take His hand, for He is strong to save
He’s your strength and refuge; He will never leave you A present help and He wants you to know When you go through deep waters you never go alone You are loved by the father, and He calls you His own Through storms and waves, He makes a way when all your hope is gone When rivers rise He hears your cries so just keep holding on When you go through deep waters you never go alone When you go through deep waters you never go alone
Kristen Bearfield is a multifaceted artist whose life is deeply intertwined with music and communication. Raised in the Appalachian Mountains, Kristen grew up surrounded by the rich sounds of gospel, bluegrass, and country music. Her musical journey began at a young age, singing her first solo in church at just three years old. Encouraged by her family to follow her passion, Kristen pursued formal education in music, studying at Liberty University and graduating from East Tennessee State University.
Her musical roots run deep, with influential figures like her great uncle Clarence “Tater” Tate—who played bass and fiddle for bluegrass legend Bill Monroe—shaping her path. Over the years, Kristen has collaborated with renowned artists such as Jimmy Fortune, The Zac Brown Band, Rosemary Siemens, Emily Ann Roberts, and Darin & Brooke Aldridge. Her talent has taken her to prestigious stages including The Grand Ole Opry at The Ryman, The Country Music Hall of Fame, MerleFest, and the IBMA World of Bluegrass.
Songwriters: Kenna Turner West / Sonya Isaacs Yeary / Becky Isaacs Bowman Album: Straight From The Heart
Kristen tours full-time as a member of HighRoad, an all-female band known for acoustic harmonies. HighRoad has been together for eight years and earned a GRAMMY nomination in 2019. In 2023, they were named AGM Female Group of the Year. Their latest song, There’s A River, continues to showcase their unique sound.
In addition to her musical career, Kristen plays a vital role in the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) as part of its communications team. Reflecting on this dual role during an interview, Kristen shared: “Managing our public relations and communications … came at a time when we weren’t touring as much during COVID. I’ve always loved the organization … it really just felt like the right move at the time.” She added that while touring full-time again with HighRoad keeps her busy, she remains grateful for her work with IBMA and the network it provides.
Kristen’s dedication to music and communication exemplifies her ability to balance multiple roles while staying true to her roots. Whether performing on stage or working behind the scenes at IBMA, Kristen continues to make significant contributions to the world of bluegrass and gospel music.
The audio on this video is the property of Thru the Bible. It is offered free of charge. If you wish to make a donation, do not send it to us. Visit http://www.ttb.org for information. The audio is attributed to Dr. J. Vernon McGee and Thru the Bible. Intellectual property rights are those of Thru the Bible. Please contact us if you feel our understanding of the terms of use are in error. Copyright information obtained from https://ttb.org/about/copyright-policy
Dr. J. Vernon McGee introduces the Gospel of Mark as chronologically the first Gospel written and emphasizes that its author, John Mark, was not an apostle but had close associations with key figures like Paul, Barnabas (his uncle), and Peter (his spiritual son). Mark’s Jewish name was John, and Mark was his Latin surname. His mother, Mary, was a prominent Christian in Jerusalem whose home served as a meeting place for the church. Mark initially accompanied Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey but turned back, causing a disagreement between Paul and Barnabas, with Barnabas later taking Mark to Cyprus. However, Mark eventually redeemed himself, becoming profitable for the ministry later in Paul’s life. Dr. McGee also notes the early church tradition, supported by figures like Papias, that Mark’s Gospel is essentially Peter’s account.
Dr. McGee explains that the Gospel of Mark was specifically written for the Romans, catering to the Roman mind which valued strength and action. He contrasts this with Matthew, written for the nation of Israel and the religious man; Luke, for the thinking man; and John, for the wretched man. The Romans, while bringing peace, justice, and order, did so through force, representing active human power and a tendency towards dictatorship. Mark presents Jesus not as the king (like in Matthew) but as God’s servant, a man of action, with “Flaming headlines” like “Jesus came” and “He is risen”. The style of Mark is described as brief, blunt, pertinent, pithy, and action-oriented, evident in the frequent use of the connective “and”. Unlike Matthew, Mark does not include a genealogy because Romans were more concerned with a servant’s ability to do the job than their lineage.
Moving into Mark chapter 1, Dr. McGee highlights the beginning of the Gospel, which focuses on Jesus’ coming into the world, his public ministry, death, and resurrection. He discusses John the Baptist as the messenger preparing the way for the Lord, baptizing not for the remission of sins but “unto the remission of sins,” preparing people for Jesus’ arrival. Jesus’ baptism by John in the Jordan River marked his identification with mankind, accompanied by the Trinity appearing with the Spirit descending like a dove and the Father’s voice declaring, “Thou art my beloved Son”. Immediately after, the Spirit drove Jesus into the wilderness for 40 days where he was tempted by Satan, alongside wild beasts, while angels ministered to him. Following John’s imprisonment, Jesus began his ministry in Galilee, preaching the gospel of God, calling his first disciples (Simon, Andrew, James, and John) to become “fishers of men”.
Dr. McGee describes a typical busy day in Jesus’ ministry in Capernaum, starting on the Sabbath where he taught with authority, astonishing the people. The first recorded miracle in Mark is the casting out of an unclean spirit in the synagogue, demonstrating Jesus’ power in the spiritual realm. This was followed by the healing of Simon’s mother-in-law who had a fever. That evening, the entire city gathered, and Jesus healed many who were sick and cast out demons, who recognized him. Despite his busy schedule, Jesus made time to pray early in the morning and then decided to move on to other towns to preach. The chapter concludes with the healing of a leper, emphasizing Jesus’ compassion as he touched and cleansed him. Jesus instructed the man to remain silent but to show himself to the priest according to Mosaic law; however, the man disobeyed and publicized his healing widely.
Christopher Reed of Debra Perry & Jaidyn’s Call has been facing health challenges for several months. Recently, he shared an update about his condition.
Reed underwent a liver biopsy last week and had asked for prayers from his supporters. He remains steadfast in his faith, stating, “The devil is a liar and God is still on his throne.”
Addressing concerns about his health, Reed clarified his diagnosis. “I do not have cirrhosis of the liver. I do not have cirrhosis of the liver,” he emphasized. Instead, doctors have diagnosed him with fatty liver and mild fibrosis, which is considered stage one. He explained, “It is something that can be reversible.”
Reed views this diagnosis as a crucial moment in his life. “I’m going to tell you right now, it’s been a very, very big wake-up call,” he admitted.
Despite the challenges, Reed remains hopeful and determined to take the necessary steps toward improving his health. His supporters continue to stand by him in prayer and encouragement as he navigates this journey to recovery.
Texas Gospel Canada Southern Gospel Radio 