Thanks to the new Adventist Mission DVD, produced by the General Conference Office of Mission, Seventh-day Adventist musicians are being heard all over the world. The DVD features many video mission stories and at least one music video. The music videos feature a variety of music including original compositions, ethnic religious music, and traditional hymns that evoke deep spiritual memories for many church members.

Nicholas Zork, a former youth pastor in Indianapolis, Ind., has had requests for his featured song, "Our Prayer." "Some have asked to use the song for other DVDs," he says. "Others have used the song as a congregational worship song. It's been a blessing to see God use this piece of music for His glory."

Kathlyn Bearce, a teenager from Maryland, was particularly struck by the message of Zork's song, which talks about Christians going out and "reaching the world" that Jesus longs to save. "I just started crying—it's so true," said Bearce. "I thought, This is what the Lord wants us to do."

All of the musicians view music as a central part of outreach and an important aspect of the Adventist Mission DVDs. "Music is a powerful means of communication," says Zork. "Through music we are able to reach listeners who may not listen otherwise, and we are able to communicate in ways that are broader and deeper than words alone."

Peter Dixon's song, "Standing at the Cross," was featured on the second quarter 2006 DVD and has been heard by Adventists from New York to Auckland, Norway.

"After the song was used on the Adventist Mission DVD," says Dixon, a worship leader in Cooranbong, Australia, "I began getting many e-mails from people all over the world. Most wanted the sheet music to the song and gave me encouragement to continue writing songs."

"I am humbled by these messages and e-mails," he says, "I never expected such a response. I feel undeserving of the attention but also very excited with the knowledge that songs, music, and multimedia can so effectively help spread the gospel."

Zork is currently working on a new album, and Dixon and his group have just released a new CD, "Heaven is Calling." His song of the same name is already receiving airplay, and the group is actively touring Australia and New Zealand. They hope to tour in the U.S. soon.

"It's my hope," said Dixon, "that young Adventists can be inspired to dedicate their talents and skills to the church and to make a life-long commitment to God and the church. If my music can help motivate people to do this, then I thank God for the opportunity to do so."

Talented Seventh-day Adventist musicians who have recorded original or public domain songs and would like to share them with Adventist Mission should visit www.AdventistMission.org/dvdmusic.

Matthew Herzel, intern, Office of Adventist Mission, General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists