Music Ministry

History:

Music Ministry was a gospel oriented outfit from Maine. They were most likely from Augusta. The outfit possibly consisted of a collective of gospel singers, songwriters, and musicians from several local churches. These churches, listed on the back cover of their first album, included St. Paul’s Prayer Community, St. Mary’s of Augusta, St. Augustine of Augusta, and St. Joseph’s of Gardiner. It’s probable the group’s leader was Mike Gervais; he is the only consistent member in the group, he is the primary vocalist on their releases, he played most of the instruments on their works, and he wrote most of their songs. 

Music Ministry released two albums throughout their tenure. Their first album was titled “Form My Heart Into Words” and was released in 1980. The lineup on this album consisted of seven individuals: Charlene Cunningham, Karen Wilkinson, Linda Caron, Mike Gervais, Nancy Kennedy, Pam Leonard, Theresa Caron. Who played what is unknown, however it is probable that Mike Gervais played the prominent 12-string acoustic guitar. It is unknown who played piano, 6-string acoustic guitar, flute, or recorder. The album consists of acoustic folk songs with gospel lyrics. Some tunes feature unconventional and progressive attributes when compared to their contemporaries. Examples include the haunting crowd vocals on the eleven minute epic “The Passion” and the prominent recorder and flute solo on “Innkeeper Of Bethlehem”. 

A second album, titled “II” was released a year or two after their first. This album only features four musicians: Mike Gervais on guitars, piano, vocals and keyboards, Julie Beaudoin on vocals, Mike Dow on percussion, and Mike Messervy on recorder. It’s unclear what caused the dramatic lineup change between both album’s productions. Mike Gervais is the only musician featured on both “Form My Heart Into Words” and “II”. The style of “II” is similar to their first album. The group’s fate is unknown. 

Reviews:

Music Ministry - Form My Heart Into Words

Rating: 6/10

This album is pretty straightforward christian influenced folk. However, it is better than most of their contemporaries and features some really good songwriting. The twelve minute epic “The Passion” is quite interesting. A hymn medley, the track has some really nice 12-string and piano playing with some haunting backing vocals. “Form My Heart Into Words” and “Innkeeper Of Bethlehem” are both exceptional. The latter features a beautiful flute / recorder solo. “20th Century Of Christmas” is a great piano backed track with some great vocals courtesy of Mike Gervais. Overall it’s not a bad listen but definitely not for everyone. 

Music Ministry - II

Rating: 6/10 (probably)

I have not had the opportunity to listen to this album yet save for a track on YouTube. However, I assume it would garner a similar rating as their first album. I hope to acquire a copy soon.