Singer and hymn writer Andrew D. Brewis is hoping to raise thousands of pounds for Christian Aid’s COVID-19 Appeal with his new single, ‘This Is The Time To Pray’. The new song, based on a poem by the late William Aubert Luce, has been written, recorded and published in just six weeks, and was released on thetimetopray.com.
“If ever there was a time that the world needed prayer and healing, now is that time,” says Andrew, who composed and performs the song. “William’s poem is beautiful, simple, urgent, and inclusive. And even though it was written years ago, it’s both completely timeless and really timely. It urges us to take a good look at ourselves, and to look to God for direction. When I read the poem, I knew it was a healing and unifying thought that deserved to be shared as widely as possible. And I thought it could do some added good if it raised money for a worthy cause.”
Christian Aid will receive 50% of the takings from the new single for their COVID-19 appeal. “As hard- pressed as we are here, there are many other parts of the world where this disease could be completely devastating,” says Andrew. “As Christian Aid is fond of saying, ‘Love unites us all’ and I think that’s a message that’s shared by the song. I’d love it to be shared widely: I think the message can bring us all together, and the funds raised will help those most in need.”
Jill Stone, one of Christian Aid’s UK regional managers was delighted when Andrew called to offer to raise money for their COVID-19 appeal with his song. “We are thrilled that Andrew is raising money for us through the launch of this song. The lyrics talk about joy and hope, light and love, and we all need more of that. Our local partners are working quickly to limit the impact of coronavirus in some of the most vulnerable communities around the world, providing basic essentials like soap and water to prevent infection in places where health provision is totally inadequate.”
Andrew has been a singer/songwriter and jazz musician for 35 years and has been writing inspirational, Christian music for 15. He’s recorded around 80 tracks on a collection of CDs, performed them in the USA and South Africa as well as at home in the UK, and eight of his hymns have been published in a hymnal used in churches all over the world. But he’s never written and recorded something as fast as this.
This Is The Time To Pray was first published as a poem in 1963. As a playwright and screenwriter, William Aubert Luce wrote works for Julie Harris, Christopher Plummer, George C. Scott and Claire Bloom, among many others. His poems are less well known, but a number of them have been set to music and are sung as solos or choral pieces in churches all over the world. Sadly, Luce passed away last December, aged 88, but his godson, Grant, has been in touch with Andrew from British Columbia in Canada to give his blessing.
Andrew hopes the song will inspire people of all faiths and none to pause, reflect and pray. And then send some money to Christian Aid. “I’m not sure we’re going to manage Colonel Tom’s giddy heights,” says Andrew, “but every penny will make a difference.”
Check Amazon Music, Google Play, Spotify, and all the other major music outlets now for ‘This Is The Time To Pray’ by Andrew D. Brewis.