Hold Me Jesus (The Songs of Rich Mullins) [feat. Andrew Greer & Bonnie Keen] - Single

In the process of mourning a loved one, we learn to grieve our loss by finding ways to carry our loved one with us and continue their work, legacy, or memory. This is not a clinging to their presence in a way that freezes either them or us in time so that we never grow or mend from the wound caused by their loss. Rather, it is an invitation to accept the reality of their absence and incorporate their life into ours in a new way that honors both our loved one and our continued existence. Our mourning may never be fully complete, but the way we mourn can be paradoxically life-giving. To me, this Bellsburg project is a joyful mourning of Rich Mullins. The artists and producers of this new album both celebrate the man who was Rich Mullins and lovingly provide a new way to continue to integrate Rich and the things that matter most to him into our lives. This album introduces Rich to some who are unfamiliar with him, continues his legacy, shares his gifts, and grows the work he began so many years ago rooted in a deep and human faith in Christ. And while there will never be another song here on Earth written my Rich (although, there may still be existing songs of his we have yet to hear), interpreting and reinterpreting his work brings new life to what he left us and the opportunity to learn new things from it. And, if nothing else, it provides yet another space for this work to lead us into was intended: to engage in the messiness and beauty of our humanity while seeing God more clearly and drawing closer to Him.

“Hold Me Jesus” is an iconic song from the late Rich Mullins. This cover is tender and moving, a beautiful rendition. So grateful for this labor of love.

The pedal steel and drum parts on this are choice.

The Bellsburg Sessions is a great project.

This is a beautiful arrangement of an already beautiful old song. An evocative tribute to Rich Mullins, and strong single on its own.

I discovered Rich Mullins’s music long after his death. This is a fitting tribute to him.

Such a beautiful song that depicts the human condition so well. Such an honoring cover of the original.

Rich Mullins' raspy voice was the perfect pairing with these confessional lyrics. It's why "Hold Me Jesus" is so cherished. Could another artist have that beautifully worn and authentically believable voice to carry this song? Enter Sara Groves! Wow - this was knocked out of the park.

This is such a great song.