Songwriter/worship leader Brian Doerksen has released his Easter special Easter at The Shining Rose for free until May 23rd.
Having recently created the Christmas at our House special, Brian wanted to keep the momentum going with another special, this time focusing on the Easter story and the difficulty surrounding COVID. It features songs like "Scars On His Hands," "On That Sunday Morning," and re-introduces the classics "Light The Fire Again," and "Come, Now Is The Time To Worship" in their original style. You'll also be treated to hymns from his new album 'Hymns For Life,' including his current single "Heard The Voice" along with "It Is Well" and "Morning Has Broken," which features his 84-year-old father Harry Doerksen. There is also a narrative aspect where we meet storytellers Jimmy Yi and Marika Siewert.
After its initial release via mandolin.com, the reception was overwhelmingly positive and encouraging. Brian and his team were able to cover the cost of the $20,000 special as well as license it to YES TV and some churches that were unable to gather for Easter due to COVID restrictions.
Since the special includes the challenges that COVID brings, the decision was made that it would be good to share the special with as many people as possible by making it available to everyone via his website.
"My desire is to encourage people this Easter season with the hopeful message of resurrection while being honest about the struggles and scars of real life," Brian shared. "People are struggling with isolation and loss; our special acknowledges that visually and demonstrates through song and story our connection and the hope that Jesus provides."
Although it's only available for a limited time through the 50 days of Eastertide, the special's soundtrack is also available for purchase which includes the musical compositions from producer Philip Janz. The production took place at The Shining Rose in Abbotsford B.C. over three days. It was directed by Marika Siewert and produced by Brian Doerksen, Marika Siewert, and The Arctic.
"We are so excited to be able to share this film with people all around the world for even longer than we expected," director Marika Siewert said. "We want you to be able to share this with anyone that you know that just needs a bit of encouragement during this time."
