Singer will perform Sunday at Crothersville

When Christian recording artist John W. Schlitt performs Sunday at First Baptist Church in Crothersville, the audience can expect a lot of things.

But one thing you won’t be is bored, he said.

“If you’re looking for passion and excitement, this is music that has the ability to change your life,” he said Wednesday afternoon during a phone interview from his home in Nashville, Tenn.

Schlitt said he is excited about Sunday’s concert, which begins at 7 p.m. and is open to the public. Tickets are not required; however, a love offering will be accepted.

“I’m really looking forward to it,” he said. “I’ve played in big churches, little churches, European churches, it doesn’t matter. I’m available to whoever can use me.”

His message is one of hope and inspiration.

“The world needs to hear it now more than ever,” he said. “It’s so hard to find something with a positive message these days.”

For those who believe in God, Schlitt said, his message is simple.

“God is not dead. He has a plan and we must stand strong and trust in him,” he said.

He invites those who have not received the word of God to come and listen.

“Why not,” he asked. “You have the right to hear about God and choose.”

Although he sees it as a great responsibility to share those themes and spread God’s love, he says he likes to have fun, too.

“I love to entertain,” he said.

The concert is being sponsored by the Southeastern Indiana Baptist Association.

Schlitt is no newcomer to the music industry. He spent 20 years as lead singer of the Christian rock band Petra.

“I started singing when I was five in school plays and then learned how to play guitar and joined a band in high school,” he said. “I never thought I would make a career out of it.”

Before becoming a part of the Christian music scene, Schlitt started in mainstream rock and roll.

“I love singing, and rock and roll has always been in my heart,” he said.

Becoming a Christian singer, however, is something he will never regret.

“I discovered I could have more fun as a Christian singer,” he said. “It’s truly the most satisfying thing I can do.”

Sunday’s performance will include a mixture of classic Petra tunes in rock, pop and praise and worship style, such as “Beyond Belief,” “No Doubt” and “We Need Jesus,” plus hits off his solo albums, such as “Show Me the Way,” “One by One” and “Inside of You.”

For more information, on the concert, call the Rev. Jon Pearce at (812) 569-1353. For more information about Schlitt, visit his Web site at www.johnwschlitt.com.