George Beverly Shea - 100th Birthday

Yesterday (1 February 2009) was the 100th birthday of a man who's bass-baritone voice is unmistakable for anyone elses. It is 1 that I associate with both classical Gospel Music as well as Billy Graham's televised Crusades.

George Beverly Shea was born in Winchester, Ontario, Canada. He was 1 of 8 children of a Wesleyan Church minister and his wife. He began singing in the church choir in Ottawa. His family later moved to Upstate New York. After moving to Chicago he began writing & performing on religious radio broadcasts. He met Billy Graham in 1943 & started singing at his crusades in 1947.

Many Gospel singers have a beautiful voice, but you can tell they are performing. Others didn't have the greatest but were sincerely in love with the Lord. That love made up for the lesser talent. Shea was 1 of those who both was deeply in love with God & had the talent which he used, not for his own glory, but for God's.

The Wonder of It All

Sweet Hour of Prayer

Amazing Grace