Habitat for Humanity and Word Artists Launch House at GMA Week

|PIC1|Habitat for Humanity, Word Entertainment and a host of Christian recording artists recently put 'faith into action' through a partnership to build a decent, affordable house in partnership with a Nashville family in need during the Gospel Music Association Music Week in Nashville, Tennessee.

Christian recording artists from Word Entertainment, including Point Of Grace, BarlowGirl, Mike Weaver and Jeremy Redmon from Big Daddy Weave, Stellar Kart, David Phelps, Mark Schultz, Pocket Full Of Rocks, Mark Roach, Building 429, pureNRG, Group 1 Crew and Salvador's Nic Gonzales has participated in building the house.

The house was put together Monday and Tuesday afternoon and was followed by a dedication ceremony and concert in the evening to celebrate the partnership and Habitat family.

Joking that he 'got a few splinters' from building the house, Jason Roy from Building 429, who performed at the dedication concert, said: "I believe that GMA is more than just good music. It's not about self-promotion. It's about promoting the Lord and His fame. And stepping back and watching a family being blessed."

He continued: "I get really busy and sometimes miss the point. I'm glad to have a label that keeps us to the point."

Jim Van Hook, CEO of Word Entertainment, meanwhile, said he was excited to partner with Habitat for Humanity to build the home and "raise awareness for the need for more affordable housing".

"We are pleased to devote our resources and time to a project that will have a lasting impact in our community."

The event is part of GMA Music Week which will culminate in the 38th annual Dove Awards, Christian and gospel music's biggest night of the year held at the Grand Ole Opry House, 25 April 2007.

"The GMA is thrilled that so many artists are participating in this build which represents the perfect opportunity to join faith with works," said John W Styll, president and CEO of the Gospel Music Association. "We believe it is essential to our industry's mission that the message in our music is supported by actions that represent the Gospel."

The project marks the second time GMA industry members have collaborated. In 2004, as part of a project known as 'Faith Works', GMA members worked with Habitat to help a family from Franklin, Tennessee, achieve the dream of home ownership.