Chuck Girard - Pioneer in Contemporary Christian Music

While Keith Green passed away at age 28, with two of his children, in a light engine plane accident, forty-three years ago; his and Chuck Girard's impact on Christian Contemporary music is undisputed.  Both artists had a career in "traditional and rock-and-roll music" but their notoriety and respect remain with their artistry, song writing, and musical leadership for Christians. Keith Green's wife continues their "Last Days Ministries" in Texas.  Both Christian gentlemen had strong roots in the San Fernando Valley during the 1970's and at the onset of the "Jesus Movement"

Chuck  Girard had been diagnosed with Stage 4 Cancer and made it public in July that it had metastasized to his lungs.   Chuck Girard, Founding Member of Love Song, Shares Stage 4 Cancer Diagnosis : News : JubileeCast  

His story is detailed in a released book "Rock & Roll Preacher" ! 

"It covers my early days as a secular studio musician and my experiences touring with major artists of the day. I detail my years of searching for God through eastern religion and drugs and my conversion to Christ in 1970. The LoveSong years and the Jesus Revolution era are covered as well as I personally witnessed the great revival of the Jesus Movement and beyond. I share what it was like to experience the growth of Calvary Chapel, the beginning of the Vineyard Church in my living room, and the start of what would come to be called Contemporary Christian Music."

A Facebook post from his wife Karen included:

It is with great sorrow, yet also great joy, to let you know that Chuck has moved to Heaven and will be eternally with Jesus! He left this earth at rest and in total peace, surrounded by family. We praise the Lord for His great mercy and for His gift of Chuck’s music, message, and heart. “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” We’re grateful for Jesus who paid the price for all who receive Him. Thank you to all of you who have prayed for Chuck and held us in prayer.

Thank you everyone for your outpouring of love and support. All of your memories and stories have meant so much to us. We will be celebrating Chuck’s life on Tuesday, August 26 at 2:00 PM at The Gate Church in Franklin, TN. All are welcome. 

(There was no mention of a livestream).

There will also be a memorial service in Southern California sometime in September that we will try to livestream (date to be announced).

A youtube tribute was acknowledged by many as heartfelt.

Edit: addition of link to tribute.

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