Christian youth bands rockin’ for Jesus, persecuted believers

SANTA ANA, Calif. — Open Doors is launching a new underground effort to bring the message of the persecuted church to America’s young people.

Through its 2005 Artist Alliance campaign, Christian youth bands will use their music to spread the message of Jesus while also helping to share the plight of the persecuted church worldwide.

According to Open Doors, an estimated 200 million Christians worldwide suffer interrogation, arrest and even death for their faith in Christ, with another 200 to 400 million facing discrimination and alienation.

Through the program Christian artists will share the message of the persecuted church as they perform across the country.

“There is no greater influence among young Christians today than that of Christian music,” said Open Doors USA Underground Coordinator Jeff Shreve. “We are excited by the partnerships being formed with these young bands and artists who have a heart to take the gospel to the world and also to help take the world to the persecuted church.

“During their concerts the artists will tell their audiences about suffering Christians and invite young people to become citizens of the Underground, so they also can support our brothers and sisters in faith. Really it’s all about reaching out and helping others in Jesus’ name.”

“I am personally excited about working with the Underground,” said GS Megaphone band member Randy Shreve. “It’s great to partner with an organization like Open Doors that views the church as a global body. When one part of the body suffers, all the other parts feel it and must help.”

GS Megaphone, a three-time Dove Award nominee, is encouraging other musicians to join the alliance. According to Shreve, there are currently six alliance members, including Benjamin del, Foolish Things, Keilah and Spiritfield.

The Underground creates avenues of opportunity for young people to become involved while supporting and encouraging the persecuted church worldwide. For more information on joining the Underground or the Artist Alliance, go to the Underground web site at undergroundusa.org.

Published by Keener Communications Group, February 2005

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