Jack Hager
Woke Up This Morning with my mind…
Many years ago I attended my first “Cathedrals” concert.
I did not want to go. I knew they were “country.” This was not at the top of my list of enjoyable music…
But I had to go. I was on staff of Family Life Ministries/Network; and we were hosting them at a venue in Elmira, NY.
Got there early, but as it was a “union house” we Family Lifers couldn’t help unload and set up. So I just stood around (I really love having nothing to do).
One of the union guys was basically a curtain-puller. As I said “hi” to him he gruffly replied, and I smelled the booze on his breath.
A bit later the Cathedrals did a sound check. Ernie Haase was new to the group (as mentioned, this was a long time ago…maybe at least 20 years?). The rest of the singers left, but Ernie stuck around with the sound techs.
I had to go to one of our vehicles, and as I returned I came back stage and discovered Ernie sitting next to the aforementioned curtain-puller, with his left arm around the guys shoulders, as his right hand held a pocket New Testament. Ernie was sharing the gospel.
My immediate thought?
“I don’t give a flying rip what you sing in what style, I’m a huge fan of at least one Cathedral.”
During the concert they sang this song…the song that was in my head as I woke this Tuesday morn.
Memories. At least two of the Cathedrals are dead. Ernie has his own group (Signature Sound?) I’m no longer on Family Life staff.
But…oh, what a Savior!