Pilot helps pilot music ministry

Audiophile Chuck Oakley told his worship pastor,  “I know God has more for me than just being the resident recording engineer capturing the latest high school concert!” 

On that day 12 years ago, Chuck’s pastor said, “Call Frank Fortunato at OM. He just bought some recording equipment similar to what you use. See if he has anything to say.”  

Fortunato needed to return to Central Asia and deliver recording equipment to underground Christian musicians there. Without hesitation, Chuck offered to go in his place. He went and upon his return, Chuck Oakley helped Fortunato found Heart Sounds International, an OM partner ministry that empowers believers to create and record indigenous worship music.

Since then, Chuck has completed audio and video projects in several countries.  A Delta pilot by day, he still makes time to help direct Heart Sounds, allowing Fortunato to complete his doctoral work.  Chuck is an innovative leader actively building the Heart Sounds team.

Would you like to join him?  You can step out from behind your church sound board and become a field recording engineer through a two-week project.  These projects occasionally call for videographers and worship leaders.  Musicians can teach a workshop or host a songwriting event for local churches.  Learn more by telling Heart Sounds your interests and passions on their preliminary application. 

Video: The Singing Warrior

Heart Sounds International, a ministry of OM Arts, was recently in Mongolia to record Christian songs composed by one of the nation’s leading Christian songwriters. For one of the songs, the team needed a man’s voice. They knew that Tumku, who had recorded previous projects, was up to the task. He sang into the mic with conviction. The lyrics were written to reach deeply into the souls of Mongolians, recalling a time of fierce pride when warriors on horseback rode in the conquests of Genghis Khan.

Yet this song called Mongolians to a different fight, a spiritual battle for the King of Kings. As Tumku sang, the team knew he was God’s warrior for this moment. Five days after he heard the rough mix and gave his resounding approval, Tumku lost his life in a car accident. He left behind a wife and two young kids, but also a song urging his fellow warriors to fight the Lord’s battles. Here is Tumku and a portion of the song:

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dancing worship: "Mighty Spirit"

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OM Arts song leader Jon Simpson presented his new song "Offering" at a recent concert for Refuge Dance Company called "Stories." Learn more about Jon's music.