*Please Note: The items below contain affiliate links. If you buy something through these links, I may earn a commission at no cost to you. Thank you all for your support.
Need a liitle Christmas music now! Tune in to these musical specials...
Little Big Town's Christmas at the Opry
Air Date: Monday, December 16, 8-10 p.m. (encore on Dec. 19 at 8 p.m.) on NBC
Performers will include: Little Big Town, Dan + Shay, Kelsea Ballerini, Sheryl Crow, Kirk Franklin, Josh Groban, Kate Hudson, and Orville Peck.
Michael Buble's Christmas in the City
Air Date: Monday, December 16, 10 p.m. on NBC
According to NBC, the show presents a mix of comedy, music and, of course, the spirit of Christmas, all from Studio 8H in Rockefeller Center.
A Motown Christmas
Air Date: Tuesday, December 17 at 9 p.m. ET/PT on NBC
The musical program will feature Smokey Robinson, Halle Bailey, Pentatonix, Andra Day, Jamie Foxx, Ashanti, BeBe Winans, Jordin Sparks, and more.
Jimmy Fallon's Holiday Seasoning Spectacular
Air Date: Wednesday, December 18 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC
Additional performers include Mariah Carey, Jonas Brothers, Justin Timberlake, and more.
A Bocelli Family Christmas
Air Dates: Thursday, December 19, 8 p.m. on TBN
Thursday, December 19, 8 p.m. on TBN
Friday, December 20, 3 a.m. on TBN
A Bocelli Family Christmas captures the wonder and music of the holidays with a mix of classic carols and original songs from the Bocelli family's brand new multi-generational album. It's a magical Christmas special for the whole family.
Nate Bargatze's Nashville Christmas
Air Date: Thursday, December 19, 9 p.m. on CBS
Nate Bargatze will be joined by Darius Rucker, Carrie Underwood, Noah Kahan, Jelly Roll, Mikey Day, and Ashley Padilla
Barry Manilow's A Very Barry Christmas
Air Date: Thursday, December 19, 10-11 p.m. on NBC
According to NBC, the evening will feature the best of Manilow’s greatest hits, including “Copacabana,” “Mandy,” “I Write the Songs” and “Looks Like We Made It” along with several holiday favorites.
National Christmas Tree Lighting
Air Date: Friday, December 20, 8 p.m. on CBS
The event is hosted by Mickey Guyton and features performances by Adam Blackstone, Stephen Sanchez, James Taylor and Trisha Yearwood.
Josh Groban & Friends Go Home for the Holidays
Air Date: Friday, December 20, 9 p.m. on CBS
In addition to Josh Groban, there will be performances by James Bay, Jennifer Hudson, Tori Kelly and The War and Treaty.
A Silent Night At The Museum Of The Bible
Air Date: Friday, December 20, 9 p.m. on TBN
Program includes: for KING & COUNTRY, Franni Rae Cash, and scenes from The Chosen
Matthew West - Come Home For Christmas
Air Date: Friday, December 20, 10 p.m. on TBN
The special features Matthew West performing classic Christmas carols and his original songs, including "Come Home for Christmas" and "Because of Bethlehem". Matthew also sings a duet of "Gloria in Excelsis Deo" with his daughter, Lulu West.
All Heaven & Nature Sing with Bill Gaither & Friends
Air Date: Friday, December 20, 11 p.m. on TBN
Gospel Music Hall of Fame members the Gaither Vocal Band ring in the holidays with joyful harmonies and signature style performing Christmas classics "Away In a Manger," "Silver Bells" and "White Christmas," as well as new seasonal songs.
The annual Christmas musical event, “CMA Country Christmas,” airs tonight, Tuesday, December 3rd at 8pm/7c on ABC. This musical program can also be streamed on Hulu and Disney+ the next day.
Details via ABC's press:
"Filmed in Nashville in front of a live audience, the festive special showcases one-of-a-kind musical performances of Christmas classics from Country Music’s biggest stars. Returning co-hosts Amy Grant and Trisha Yearwood take the stage and perform “Sing Your Praise To The Lord” and “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town.” Grant also takes the stage to perform “Tennessee Christmas” and Yearwood delivers a fun and festive Christmas medley.
Alongside the night’s hosts, the lineup includes for KING + COUNTRY with Carin León (“O Come, O Come Emmanuel”), Cody Johnson (“White Christmas“) and (“I’ll Be Home For Christmas”), Ashley McBryde and Brittney Spencer (“Man With The Bag”), Jon Pardi (“400 Horsepower Sleigh”) and CeCe Winans (“Joy To The World”)."
In years past, the program was 2 hours long, but this year, please note it is only one hour. Of all the performers, I'm personally most wanting to see for KING + COUNTRY. They are such incredible, phenomenal entertainers, and this Christian duo will sing about the true reason for the season!
I'll never forget seeing for KING + COUNTRY perform "Little Drummer Boy" live in concert with my family for the first time. Words cannot express how spectacular that performance was... from the vocals, to the drums, and the lighting!!! It's an experience I'll never forget. I've included below a video of for KING & COUNTRY singing "Little Drummer Boy" Live from the CMA Country Christmas four years ago in 2019.
If you're interested in attending a for KING + COUNTRY concert, you can see tour dates here. Plus, for KING + COUNTRY’s A Drummer Boy Christmas LIVE, will air in theaters throughout December. Tickets are available here.
Well, I hope many of you will also enjoy the new "CMA Country Christmas" show! Is there a musical act you want to see the most? Please share in comments below.
Also, following the show, you can see on ABC the classic cartoon, "Santa Claus is Comin' to Town"!
*Please Note: The items in this post contain affiliate links. If you buy something through these links, I may earn a commission at no cost to you. Thank you all for your support.
I am ecstatic to share with you all today that I was blessed to be one of the media/entertainment outlets provided a screener for the new biopic faith-based film, ‘Unsung Hero,’ which is based on the lives of the Smallbone family.
If you’re unfamiliar with the Smallbones, they are a family with seven children, three of whom became well-known Christian singers- eldest daughter, Rebecca St. James, and sons Joel and Luke Smallbone, of the renowned Christian pop duo— for KING & COUNTRY.
This powerful film, which officially opens in theaters across the country on Friday, April 26, 2024, is one, I pray, that will truly move you and anyone who sees it— emotionally and spiritually.
‘Unsung Hero’ is an inspirational, family-friendly film that is appropriate for all ages; it is rated PG by the MPAA (Motion Picture Association of America).
I hope you enjoy my movie review below…
Image – Unsung Hero | Copyright, Lionsgate (Loinsgate Entertainment Corp.)
“The Proof of Your Love” ♪
Since seeing ‘Unsung Hero,’ I can’t stop singing its praises!
The Smallbone family had it all while living in Australia, according to what the world deems as success— wealth, a large home, a swimming pool, and all the comforts a lavish lifestyle affords. But when the father, David, loses it all after making some bad investments as a promoter in the Christian music industry, he and his wife, Helen, feel God’s calling to leave Australia and move to America with their six children.
Just when they believe things will turn around, another deal goes bad for David after they move into their small rental home in Nashville, Tennessee. With money scarce, no furniture, and little food, the family has to rely heavily on their faith and each other to earn money by cleaning homes and doing lawn service. David often has to set aside his pride to provide for his family.
It’s beautiful to watch the parents and children come together and rely on The Lord to see them through this difficult season in their lives. Over and over, even when one door closes, they continue to see the proof of God’s love in their lives as another window opens.
Image – Unsung Hero | Copyright, Lionsgate (Loinsgate Entertainment Corp.)
“Fix My Eyes” ♪
When the Smallbone family is down to almost their last penny, their mother insists that they need to pray for everything they need. So, with scrap paper, they made two lists (seen in the image above) on the wood-paneled wall in their rental home.
The first list was *Please*, and the second list was *Thank You*. Under *Please*, they would list their prayers, which were numerous, and as each one was answered, they would move those prayers under *Thank You*. It was especially beautiful to see the children's optimism in this spiritual activity, as it was their faith in motion. As each prayer was answered, the thank yous got longer, and the needs under the please list became shorter.
Even when there were many obstacles in their way that seemed insurmountable, the Smallbone family fixed their eyes on God, and He saw them through their hardships with big and small miracles.
Image – Unsung Hero | Copyright, Lionsgate (Loinsgate Entertainment Corp.)
“JOY, Let it Move You…” ♪
While' Unsung Hero' contains many intense moments of struggles and adversity, it also features many scenes with lighthearted, joyful comedy.
And what a joy it was to see such an amazing cast! The production quality matched the remarkable talent chosen to portray these real-life individuals.
Image – Unsung Hero | Copyright, Lionsgate (Loinsgate Entertainment Corp.)
Joel Smallbone –
Christian Singer Joel Smallbone’s portrayal of his father, David, in this film is phenomenal. You can truly feel the passion in his voice and the intensity in his reactions, especially when he is at his lowest. A few minutes into the movie, I completely forgot he was singer Joel Smallbone of for KING & COUNTRY, as he embodied the look and mannerisms of his father, burdened with the task of caring for a large family.
Although this is not Joel’s first acting role, his performance in this is so impressive, I wouldn’t be surprised if this catapults his acting career into making even more inspirational films like this.
Image – Unsung Hero | Copyright, Lionsgate (Loinsgate Entertainment Corp.)
Daisy Betts –
Australian Actress Daisy Betts portrays the mother (mum), Helen Smallbone, who not only has the task of rearing 6 children, but as they move to America – she is expecting their 7th child. Daisy's acting in this film, alongside Joel, is spectacular; you truly feel her emotion as she’s doing her best to raise her children and make their new life in Tennessee, even when times are hard, an exciting adventure. As the mother, she is the glue that holds them all together, encouraging them in their walk with God and uplifting their spirits. I was completely moved by her incredible performance.
Releasing this film just before Mother’s Day, I must say, is brilliant, because this film highlights all the joys and hardships of motherhood, while championing her role as the loving nurturer and loyal advocate for her children and husband. It was wonderful to see how being a mother is celebrated in this movie. I was moved to tears countless times by Helen's immense compassion and love for her family, along with her resolute determination to follow God’s will.
Image – Unsung Hero | Copyright, Lionsgate (Loinsgate Entertainment Corp.)
Candace Cameron Bure –
Actress Candace Cameron Bure portrays Kay Albright, a member of their church family who becomes a good friend, along with her husband, Jed, to the Smallbone family after their arrival in Tennessee.
Albright is the perfect last name for Mrs. Kay because she is definitely a bright spot in the lives of the Smallbone family.
It was fun to hear Candace use a southern accent and wear a curly, reddish-brown wig and 90's style of clothing to look more like her real-life counterpart, but more importantly, it was beautiful to see her character, Kay, literally being the hands and feet of Jesus, giving to the Smallbones in their time of need.
This was truly an ideal role for Candace, who enthusiastically shares her love for Jesus through her character and in real life!
Image – Unsung Hero | Copyright, Lionsgate (Loinsgate Entertainment Corp.)
Lucas Black –
As Jed Albright, Actor Lucas Black offers some comedic scenes to the film with his witty southern accent; however, more importantly, Jed offers the love of Christ, as he’s a cheerful giver to the Smallbone family, even if David’s pride often has a hard time receiving.
Image – Unsung Hero | Copyright, Lionsgate (Loinsgate Entertainment Corp.)
And more recognizable talent…
*Actor Jonathan Jackson (Nashville, General Hospital) portrays Christian musician Eddie DeGarmo, who is there for the Smallbone family at a pivotal time.
*Country/Christian Singer, Hillary Scott (Lady A), hits the right note as the church’s worship singer, Luanne Meece.
*Veteran Actor Terry O’Quinn (Lost, Christmas Sail) plays the Smallbone family patriarch, Grandpa James. He has several memorable lines in the film, but one of my favorites is: "Look around you... your faith, your family, that's what makes you rich in life."
*Happy Days sitcom star, Don Most, plays music rep, Pierce.
*Actress Rachel Hendrix (October Baby, Christmas Wishes, and Mistletoe Kisses) portrays a young Amy Grant.
*Christian Singer and Actress Rebecca St. James portrays a flight attendant.
*Luke Smallbone (for KING & COUNTRY) dons a long, bushy wig to portray one of the band members in the Christian rock group, Stryper.
Image – Unsung Hero | Copyright, Lionsgate (Loinsgate Entertainment Corp.)
Although I didn’t recognize all of the children in the film from previous works, their performances are all outstanding, and I wouldn’t be surprised one bit if many of them are breakout stars in the making.
Image – Unsung Hero | Copyright, Lionsgate (Loinsgate Entertainment Corp.)
“Burn the Ships” ♪
Fun scene moment: Near the beginning of the film, the family is running through the airport after being held at border patrol, and I couldn’t help but get a flashback of the movie Home Alone in my mind as the family races to catch their next flight. Thankfully, no child is left behind!
This scene also symbolized to me - their unwavering determination to plod forward in their belief that God was leading them to America. In theory, they were like pirates burning their ship and not looking back.
Image – Unsung Hero | Copyright, Lionsgate (Loinsgate Entertainment Corp.)
“The Little Drummer Boy” ♪
Christmas feels in ‘Unsung Hero’:
Just like the Little Drummer Boy plays his best for Jesus in the aforementioned song, which is a well-known trademark for the For King & Country duo, later in the film, the Smallbone’s faith is tested once again at Christmastime when the children, who are doing their best to please God, pray for the gifts they want Santa to bring them on Christmas morning, believing with all of their hearts that God must be close friends with Saint Nick.
Once again, it is precious to see a child's innocent faith, and the church family provides a miracle that will surely warm your heart.
Image – Unsung Hero | Copyright, Lionsgate (Loinsgate Entertainment Corp.)
“God Only Knows…” ♪
When a film is released into the world, one can never foresee the impact it will have, the ripple effect of lives touched— this year, next year, and years to follow.
I absolutely recommend for everyone to see this film – as God only knows the lives ‘Unsung Hero’ will ultimately reach and touch for His Glory!
Image – Unsung Hero | Copyright, Lionsgate (Loinsgate Entertainment Corp.)
“Amen…” ♪(pronounced ah-men)
My prayer is that this film will inspire each person who sees it and touch many lives for the kingdom.
When we are uncertain, Lord, help us to look to you, instruct us, guide us in the way that we should go, and direct our paths. You are our provider and protector.
I pray this movie is an encouragement to believers and a light in the darkness to those who are seeking.
May our faith be refreshened and reawakened!
Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen.
Trailer for ‘UNSUNG HERO’:
Be sure to look for 'Unsung Hero' at your local theater.
Great American Family is giving us viewers some very special programming on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day!
The Christmas Eve schedule will include some incredible Christmas singing and programs that highlight the true meaning of Christmas - the birth of Jesus!
On Christmas Day, beginning at 12 noon (Eastern Standard Time), Great American Family will begin their Christmas movie countdown - which is based on the movie reviews they've received from us viewers. Be sure to share your reviews directly with Great American Family.
I've included Great American Family's new promo for this below...
Christmas Eve Schedule:
(all times below in Eastern Standard Time)
🌟GENTRI's "Finding Christmas" - 2pm
GENTRI's "Finding Christmas" brings viewers' favorite Christmas songs to life with epic orchestrations, lush harmonies, and moving storytelling; the Gents are sure to add to the spirit of the season.
*The singing group Gentri (which is short for “The Gentlemen Trio”) is comprised of three male singers, including Casey Elliott, who stars in several Great American Family movies: Retreat to Paradise, Destined at Christmas, and Destined 2: Christmas Once More.
🌟A Silent Night at Museum of the Bible - 3pm
Filmed at national landmarks around Washington, D.C. and inside Museum of the Bible, the Christmas story found in the Gospel of Luke is told through the music and monologues of Grammy award-winning duo for KING & COUNTRY.
Video preview:
🌟Nativity - The Art of Maltese Crib-Making - 4pm
In America, Christmas is commercial. However, on one small Mediterranean island, Christmas is more alive than ever; "Nativity: The Art of Maltese Crib Making" goes behind the scenes of Maltese crib-making where the tradition was born.
*Narrated by Roma Downey
🌟Yule Log marathon on Christmas Eve - 5pm-12am
🌟Yule Log marathon on Christmas Day - 12am-12pm
Seasonal music airs over a glowing fireplace.
Christmas Day Schedule:
🌟Christmas Movie Countdown on Christmas Day - beginning at 12 noon
Binge-watch as Great American Family counts down all 21 of their NEW 2023 Christmas Movies!
There are two new specials on the CMT channel TONIGHT. The one I'm most looking forward to seeing is “CMT Crossroads Christmas: FOR KING + COUNTRY & Friends.” It's a musical holiday special with the Christian singing duo FOR KING + COUNTRY, composed of brothers Luke and Joel Smallbone. Joining them in this one-hour special is their sister, Rebecca St. James, and friends: BRELAND, Chrissy Metz, and Natalie Grant.
According to CMT, “CMT Crossroads Christmas: FOR KING + COUNTRY & Friends” includes Christmas memories and energetic, compelling versions of “Joy To The World,” “O Come, O Come Emmanuel,” “Angels We Have Heard On High,” “Go Tell It On The Mountain,” “Silent Night” and more. I've personally seen For King & Country in concert at Christmastime singing their well-known version of "Little Drummer Boy," etc... They are truly spectacular! Amazing! Incredible!
“CMT Crossroads Christmas: FOR KING + COUNTRY & Friends” airs Monday, December 12th at 10p/9c.
Encore showings are currently scheduled on CMT at these times: Monday, December 12th at 11p/10c; Sunday, Dec. 18th at 11a/10c; and a special Christmas Eve airing Saturday, December 24th, at 7a/6c.
SNEAK PEEK - video clip of FOR KING + COUNTRY
performing “Little Drummer Boy”:
(Caution: Prepare yourself to be blown away! They are awesome!)
Airing before this musical special tonight is an all-new Christmas movie premiere, "A Nashville Country Christmas," starring well-known country singer Tanya Tucker. In addition to airing on CMT, this movie will also air on the Paramount Network.
Movie Synopsis: "A Nashville Country Christmas" follows a country music superstar who bolts from her outrageous lifestyle and hides at her grandmother's farm, where she finds romance when she reconnects with her handsome ex.
Please know I'm not aware if this will be family-friendly, as I have not pre-screened this movie. I do want to mention in the promo (see video clip below), they show men dancing behind Tanya in a farm-themed country music video who are shirtless. This must be the "outrageous lifestyle" she escapes from. Hopefully, this is as outrageous as it gets.
Trailer video:
Kimberly Williams-Paisley ("Father of the Bride," "The Christmas Train") also has a role in this film.
"A Nashville Country Christmas" premieres Monday, December 12th at 8p/7c.
🎶 Joy to the World! 🎶
Merry Christmas, everyone! Net
First, if you are not familiar with The Chosen, it is a drama series based on the life of Jesus of Nazareth, created, directed and co-written by American filmmaker Dallas Jenkins. The Chosen is "an exploration of the life of Jesus Christ through the perspective of those that interacted with him." It all began with one episode titled The Shepherd in 2017, which tells the amazing story of the birth of Jesus from a shepherd's point of view. The Chosen series developed from there and many more episodes later, it has become overwhelming popular through streaming sources, etc...
You can see The Shepherd this Christmas on TV on the TCT Channel on Thursday, December 23, 2021 at 7:05pm/6:05c and Saturday, December 25, 2021 at 1:38pm/12:38c.
Also, this Christmas, a new episode titled: Christmas with The Chosen: The Messengers was first released in theaters breaking box office records. You can see current theater and ticket details through Fanthom Events.
Christmas with The Chosen: The Messengers is 2 hours long featuring musical performances from various artists and groups including Phil Wickham, for KING & COUNTRY, Cain, We The Kingdom, Matt Maher, Dawson Hollow and many more. Along with the musical performances there is a new episode of The Chosen which is 40-minutes long and follows the events surrounding the birth of Jesus from the perspective of Mary and Joseph.
If you can't make it to the theater or simply prefer to watch from home, then I have good news for you! You can see special airings of Christmas with The Chosen: The Messengers on TV!
The full two-hour film that played in theaters, including the new 40-min. episode of The Chosen and 80 minutes of musical performances, will air first on BYUtv on: Sunday December 19, 2021 at 3 pm ET/ 12 pm PT.
The 40-min. episode of The Chosen will be repeated at the following dates/times on BYUtv: Thurs. Dec. 23: 8 pm ET/5 pm PT, 11 pm ET/8 pm PT; Fri. Dec. 24: 12 pm ET/9 am PT, 12 am ET (Sat.)/9 pm PT; Sat. Dec. 25: 1 pm ET/10 am PT. (Dates and times according to rexburgstandardjournal.com)
In addition to BYUtv, you can also see Christmas with The Chosen: The Messengers on UPtv! The full 2 hours will air on Christmas Eve, Friday, December 24, 2021 at 7pm/6c, with these extra encore times: Saturday, December 25, 2021 at 1am/12c, 7am/6c, and 11pm/10c.
The TBN network is also playing The Chosen Christmas Special on Wednesday December 22 at 9pm/8c. and Christmas day, Saturday December 25 at 2pm/1c. (Please note: So far, their schedule does not say if this is the new special or last years.)
I think it is very interesting with all the numerous new Christmas movies airing on TV across various networks, that a program like The Chosen is topping box office records. People are going out to theaters and paying to see it! What does that tell me? People are craving for the true meaning of Christmas! Sure, many of the Christmas romantic comedies on TV are delightful and fun to watch, but when it comes down to it, most people desire to see what Christmas is really about - the birth of Jesus! How refreshing! This gives me hope for the future as we soon end this year and begin a new one.
Joyous Blessings to You All as we rejoice together over the Savior's birth!
Merry Christmas! In His Love, Net
Click on The Chosen products below available through Amazon for more details:
Originally, the KLOVE Fan Awards were filmed May 30, 2021 - at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee. I just love that they have church style pews there instead of regular seats. Anyway, the awards first premiered on TV last Friday night; however, they are receiving a special encore presentation tonight, Friday, June 11, 2021 at 8pm Eastern / 7pm Central / 5pm Pacific on TBN, Trinity Broadcasting Network. The show also repeats immediately after the first showing. I personally enjoyed the program so much last week, that I wanted to share it with all of you - just in case you missed it.
One on the awards given at the KLOVE Fan Awards was for FILM and TELEVISION IMPACT. The nominees were A Week Away, Church People, The Chosen, I Am Patrick, and I Still Believe. I thought many of you here would be interested since I know you are passionate supporters of The Chosen. Also, A Week Away is a Christian Musical that stars two actors well known from Hallmark - Bailee Madison (Northpole) and Kevin Quinn (A Christmas Love Story). Actress Erin Cahill (A Timeless Christmas), who we also know well from Hallmark, has a role in the Christian movie, Church People. Tune in to see which production won this category!
The awards show was hosted by Christian Singer/Songwriter, Matthew West. If you're not familiar with him, my favorite songs by West are: The God Who Stays, Hello, My Name Is, The Motions, Day After Christmas, and his new song, Truth Be Told, which he sings in the awards program with Country Artist, Carly Pearce. Their collaboration was fantastic! (Also, you may know Matthew West from a small role he had, along with Candace Cameron Bure, in a Christmas movie that aired on UPtv in 2011 called The Heart of Christmas.)
KLove Fan Awards - images: TBN
Other music artists you will see in the program include: Joel Smallbone from for King & Country, Zach Williams, the musical groups Cain, MercyMe, We The Kingdom, and Casting Crowns, Michael W. Smith, Natalie Grant, Danny Gokey, Tauren Wells, Crowder, Riley Clemmons, Andrew Ripp, Kari Jobe, Cory Asbury, and more!
I hope many of you will enjoy the program as much as I did! See where you can find TBN below.
Candace Cameron Bure - image (left): photographer Eric Michael Roy
image (top right): Hope Rising Benefit Concert / (mid right): incourage.me / Dayspring
image (bottom right): Hallmark Crown Media
I am beyond thrilled to share with you all today my interview with actress, host, author, producer... Candace Cameron Bure, who is well known from the popular family sitcom, "Full House," and her numerous, wonderful Hallmark movies, including the "Aurora Teagarden Mysteries," "A Shoe Addict's Christmas," "Christmas Town" and many more.
When I was given the opportunity to interview Candace, I immediately responded with a resounding "yes, I would love to!" I grew up watching (like so many of you!) Candace on "Full House" with my family. In fact, my sister and I would often imitate her hair and clothing styles. Candace is just one of those people who feels like a dear friend each time I see her on TV, and I think that's because we have followed her career from nearly the beginning.
I always receive such warm, positive responses from all of her films, so I know it's such a joy for many of us to watch her delightful, family-friendly Hallmark movies. And even more than that, I feel it's an even bigger blessing to know how strong Candace stands on her faith in The Lord.
This Sunday Candace will be sharing her faith as she hosts alongside her brother Kirk Cameron ("Fireproof," "Growing Pains") the Hope Rising COVID-19 Benefit Concert on April 19th at 8pm EST. via Facebook! Candace and I discuss all the details of this wonderful event in our interview together below. I hope you are as blessed reading this, as I was to share this with all of you!
image via: Hope Rising
-----------------------------
INTERVIEW
ACTRESS, HOST, AUTHOR, PRODUCER...
CANDACE CAMERON BURE
-----------------------------
Net, It's a Wonderful Movie: Welcome, Candace, to “It’s a Wonderful Movie,” where we typically chat about family friendly movies on TV! Most of the time I am sharing your delightful Hallmark movies with my readers, but I was so encouraged to hear about your latest project.
The Hope Rising COVID-19 Benefit Concert sounds like such a wonderful idea – which will include many fantastic, well known contemporary Christian music artists! Who are some of the incredible music talents who will be participating in the Hope Rising COVID-19 Benefit Concert that you are hosting this Sunday?
Candace Cameron Bure: There is going to be so many amazing artists! Some of the On-Screen Performances & Messages will include For King & Country, Matthew West, Casting Crowns, MercyMe, Natalie Grant, Dani and Dannah, Bishop TD Jakes, Kristen Chenoweth, and so much more!
image via: Hope Rising
Candace Cameron Bure - image (left): photographer Eric Michael Roy
Candace Cameron Bure (@candacecbure) • Instagram photos and videos
Net, It's a Wonderful Movie: How excited are you to host this incredible event with your big brother, Kirk, who is such a strong man of faith?
Candace Cameron Bure: I did not hesitate to say yes when Kirk came to me with this idea . People are in need of hope, faith, courage, and inspiration during this anxiety producing time. Not only is Hope Rising a result of a lot of hard work, but it is backed up by even more heart. This is about giving back to people in need. Hope Rising will uplift and inspire by uniting the audience through music and inspirational messages. Plus, despite the challenge of each artist recording this from home, the end result is mind-blowing. There is an amazing energy behind it, and it needs to be seen everywhere!!
Candace Cameron Cameron with Joel Smallbone - in the For King & Country music video "JOY"
image via: For King & Country
Net, It's a Wonderful Movie: I must say, my family and I are all such big fans of the music group, For King & Country! What was it like for you to be in their music video for their magnificent, uplifting song, “Joy”?
Candace Cameron Bure:It was so much fun! There was literally lots of Joy and excitement when we filmed it. I was tickled to death that they asked me. Everyone on their team is so kind hardworking, and creative. I was grateful to be a part of such an incredible song!
Net, It's a Wonderful Movie: And... Good news! According to the Hope Rising Facebook page – Joel and Luke will be singing JOY in their performance for the Benefit Concert!
image via: Hope Rising / For King & Country
Net, It's a Wonderful Movie: Is there a song from one of the artists participating in this event that is a blessing to you – especially during this time?
Candace Cameron Bure: There are so many! I love “Almost Home” by MercyMe. A lot of people can relate right now to the lyrics of this song. It points us to remember that these burdens will one day be gone. It talks about how the road will be hard, but we win in the end because of Jesus.
Net, It's a Wonderful Movie: As many people are going through feelings of fear and uncertainty during this time, could you share a scripture that uplifts your spirit?
Candace Cameron Bure:
Matthew 6:26-34 (HCSB)
26 Look at the birds of the sky: They don’t sow or reap or gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Aren’t you worth more than they?
27 Can any of you add a single cubit to his height by worrying?
28 And why do you worry about clothes? Learn how the wildflowers of the field grow: they don’t labor or spin thread.
29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was adorned like one of these!
30 If that’s how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and thrown into the furnace tomorrow, won’t He do much more for you—you of little faith?
31 So don’t worry, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’
32 For the idolaters eagerly seek all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.
34 Therefore don’t worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Candace Cameron Bure's family - Photographer: Melissa Coulier
Net, It's a Wonderful Movie: Since we’ve all been asked to stay-at-home, you have a Full House, once again, with all of your children home with you and your husband. What has this time meant for you and your family?
Candace Cameron Bure: My husband Val and I had become empty nesters in 2019 which made me sad. Now, we have all three kids back in the house which thrills me! For that reason alone, it’s been one of the silver linings I’m grateful for. More time with my children and husband, cooking, playing board games, going for walks around the neighborhood and talking. The conversations have been incredible.
Net, It's a Wonderful Movie: After the Hope Rising COVID-19 Benefit Concert, do you have any future projects you can share?
Candace Cameron Bure: I’m slated to film three more Aurora Teagarden Mystery movies with Hallmark in the fall and two Christmas movies. Obviously, we will see if that’s still possible after quarantine. I also have The Candace Collection home decor and faith inspired product line releasing this fall available at DaySpring.com and QVC. In addition, my production company Candy Rock Entertainment continues to produce and develop both scripted and unscripted lifestyle programming with an emphasis on family friendly content.
Net, It's a Wonderful Movie: Yay, I’m so excited to hear you might have TWO Hallmark Christmas movies coming this year! I sure hope it will still be possible!
Net, It's a Wonderful Movie: Where will the proceeds from the Hope Rising COVID-19 Benefit Concert go, and what do you hope viewers will take away from this inspirational, amazing event?
Candace Cameron Bure: 100% of the proceeds will go directly to the charity, Samaritan's Purse. Samaritan's Purse has created mobile hospitals in Central Park as well as other hot-spots across America and the world, giving medical care to those affected by COVID-19. No business, party or individual is fiscally benefiting from this project. All performances and production work have been donated- what a blessing!
Thank you so much Candace for doing this interview with me at “It’s a Wonderful Movie”! Keep on shining His Light! It was such a delight for me to have this opportunity to have this chat with you!
I know the scripture you shared above will mean so much to everyone here. In these difficult moments and days, we can find hope, redemption and power in His name. When we choose to follow Jesus, I believe as you do - that He will comfort us through the heartbreak, the loneliness, the loss, the toughest moments of our lives, and warmly welcome us into His loving arms. And yes, He will give us Joy - for "the Joy of The Lord is our strength!" (Nehemiah 8:10)
It is remarkable that all of these amazing Christian music artists are coming together for this event to support Samaritan's Purse, which is led by Christian evangelist and missionary, Franklin Graham. This humanitarian relief group has been there for people all over the world in need, and most recently in Italy and New York, with their mobile hospitals. In addition to that, they've been providing care and disaster relief for those in Tennessee, Louisiana, South Carolina, and Mississippi, where homes have been damaged or demolished recently by storms. The mission of Samaritan's Purse is "to follow the example of Christ by helping those in need and proclaiming the hope of the Gospel." If you would like to give directly to Samaritan's Purse, you can do so - HERE!
Again, I thank you Candace for joining me today, and I know many of us will look forward to seeing you host the Hope Rising COVID-19 Benefit Concert this Sunday on Facebook! God bless you in this and all of your future endeavors!
If you’d like to feel some extra JOY right now, then check out Candace Cameron Bure in the music video “Joy” with the music group For King & Country below and be sure to watch the Hope Rising COVID-19 Benefit Concert this Sunday, April 19th!
Hello Blog Friends & Followers! My Nickname is Net and more than Anything, I love my Savior, Jesus, and my precious Family! It's my joy to share and review Movies here on this Blog ~ that the entire Family can watch together on TV! Thank YOU so much for stopping by, Please leave a Comment... I enjoy hearing from You! ~ Net
