Ragamuffin – The Life of Rich Mullins & John Schlitt’s Christmas Project | Episode 37
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In today’s show we talk about two amazing projects. The first is a conversation with David Mullins, brother to legendary Christian recording artist Rich Mullins about the the new film on based Rich’s life, Ragamuffin
Then, talking about legendary recording artists, at 19m:05s in, John Schlitt of Petra fame stops in to discuss his new Christmas project, title appropriately, The Christmas Project
John 16:33
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
David Mullins
Producer ∙ Speaker ∙ Musician
“I went to a movie about Rich Mullins and about halfway through I realized it was a movie about God”
A speaker, teacher, writer and musician, David Mullins seeks to use his gifts to take the life-changing word of God’s love to both the lost and to those in the Church who still believe they are unlovable, unaccepted and unworthy of His love.
David grew up in rural Indiana, the youngest of five children in a strong Christian home. Later at Johnson Bible College, David found both a Bachelor of Arts degree in Bible and Preaching and his best friend for life, his wife Robin. They have two children, Jonathan and Kacie.
In September of 1997, while completing his ninth year on the ministerial staff at Oak Grove Christian Church in Beckley, West Virginia, a defining moment happened in David’s life; the death of his older brother and dear friend Rich. Rich, a popular Christian musician, was best known for his song “Awesome God” and for his intense desire to bring the Good News of God’s love to Native Americans. Rich’s sudden death in a car accident saddened thousands throughout the world and brought enormous changes in the lives of David and Robin Mullins.
In our time together, David and I spoke not only about the movie Ragamuffin, the story of his brother’s life; but also about his father, growing up in rural Indiana and his relationship with God.
Ragamuffin is a raw and transparent glimpse into the life of one of Christian music’s most beloved.
Produced by Color Green Films, Ragamuffin stars Michael Koch as Rich Mullins. The film is written by Ashleigh Phillips and David Leo Schultz and is produced and directed by Schultz. Additional producers include David Mullins (Rich’s younger brother), David Holechek and Ryan Bodie. Ragamuffin showcases several members of the Mullins’ family and features the talents of Schultz (as Sam); Wolfgang Bodison (Bryan); James Kyson (Matt); Mel Fair (John Mullins); Carson Aune (Justin); Elizabeth Ann Roberts (Jess) and Michelle Keller (Neva Mullins). The film’s title comes from A Ragamuffin Band, a band name that was inspired by Brennan Manning’s book, “The Ragamuffin Gospel.”
“Ragamuffin is a stirring film that will touch audiences and challenge them to consider what is most important in their own lives,” says Schultz. “The movie’s heartfelt themes include redemption, forgiveness, faith, and the true meaning of God’s unconditional love.”
Website: ragamuffinthemovie.com
Ragamuffin on Facebook
Twitter: @RichMullinsFilm
Legendary Christian Rocker, John Schlitt joins us to share his release of The Christmas Project
The CD, available through Elevate Entertainment and Send The Light Distribution, can also be found at retailers including Lifeway Christian Stores, Family Christian Stores and Munce Group member stores, as well as online through BestBuy.com, walmart.com, Amazon
“This is the first time I’ve had almost a full year to promote a CD, and The Christmas Project is worth it,” says Schlitt, who released the project in digital format only in November 2013. “We have created a wonderful package, thanks to the skill and belief of my producer and the musicians who gave 100 percent. The reaction to the digital release last year was amazing and I’m excited that this project is now in retail stores. Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year and I’m so humbled to have a CD out there celebrating this blessed season.”
The full-length CD is comprised primarily of beloved traditional Christmas carols, but that doesn’t mean The Christmas Project is all eggnog and holly. This album rocks with the unmistakable John Schlitt style that legions of fans have come to know and love. The icing on the Christmas confection is an original tune, “What Christmas Needs to Be,” which is destined to become a seasonal classic. What tops it off for me is his unbelievable all-natural, ear splitting, dog howling performance of Hallelujah Chorus. Checkout the video below.
John first joined us back in episode 6 at onfaithsedge.com/006, where he really digs deep into his faith and shares some intimate, vulnerable moments as we talk about his time with Head East, Petra and how he came to Christ.
Follow John:
Website: johnwschlitt.com
John on Facebook
Twitter: @johnwschlitt
