The Gathering House: Yes, Catholics Have Great Praise Music

In the world of contemporary praise and worship music, the Catholic Church seems a bit behind the times. As someone who appreciates traditional hymns and chants, I find that contemporary praise and worship music can distract from the solemn nature of the Mass when done improperly. By “improperly,” I mean when the focus shifts from the Sacrifice of the Mass to the musical performance as entertainment.

In my 40 years of faith—both as a Protestant and a Catholic—I’ve found few spiritually inspiring musical options. John Michael Talbot, Michael Card, and Waterdeep stand out as the most consistent examples, with Talbot being the only Catholic among them.

Providentially, God led me to The Gathering House. This group offers spiritual inspiration without becoming a distraction or mere musical entertainment. I’d like to share the music of The Gathering House with you—you can find them on YouTube, Instagram, and Spotify. They also serve musically at my parish, and I can personally attest to how they enhance the experience of worshiping Christ in the Mass.

Please enjoy!

Surrender by Brook Ligerwood, Chris Quilala, and Scott Ligerwood

An excellent rendition of this song that fits perfectly into any Lenten journey.

https://youtu.be/KLo7nuR-SPM?si=XjnMFahtlNZ-_mGw

Always by Michael Howard, Nyssa Garcia, and Madison Jarboe (2024)

An original by The Gathering House. Simply beautiful.

https://youtu.be/FZXpUw0bmNs?si=bEivK79pwl68_qWL

Born of God by Justin Jarvis (2011)

Please enjoy this popular song arranged by The Gathering House.

https://youtu.be/SN7vWLF8ba8?si=0PNR61AnKFEsGagv

Broken by Michael Howard, Nyssa Garcia, and Madison Jarboe (2024)

Another piece of excellent original music.

https://youtu.be/y4yKhcskaxs?si=93RyBH_7N-2Jipc3

I Am Not Alone by Mia Fields, Marty Sampson, Kari Jobe, Ben Davis, Austin Davis, Grant Pittman, Dustin Sauder (2015)

The Christian knows they are not alone. God seeks us out for relationship.

https://youtu.be/zP5Gecmiou4?si=rgKZZuXzNTEdLmAx

Nothing Else by Cody Carnes, Hank Bentley, and Jessie Early (2018)

One of my favorites.

https://youtu.be/2y2DlUmbgIA?si=iSEFs5bNmr3SQCmS

How He Loves by John Mark McMillan (2005)

A classic masterfully done.

https://youtu.be/qsylKfXX4jg?si=QovDwwB9uyUmFKFb

Have My Heart by Chandler Moore, Tiffany Hammer, Brandon Lake, and Steven Furtick (2020)

Give everything to the One Who gave everything for you.

https://youtu.be/fHNQhRULYrI?si=ewQiglCrS7dwUCk-

Holy Spirit by Katie Torwalt and Bryan Torwalt (2011)

Another classic! Come, Holy Spirit.

https://youtu.be/52aTqo7ELyw?si=40TPqSVuNxfV_XhI

Parting Message…

Please take the time to listen to these great songs by this very talented Catholic group. Also, follow them on social media for updates on new material. May God continue to bless your Lent!