Courage House is not just a dream or a vision whispered to the heart of Jenny Williamson. It is a reality. For these girls, often called the throwaways and forgotten of society, the concert held at Adventure Christian Church in Roseville, California, on September 15, 2011, boldly declared that hope, healing, and freedom will be a reality for them, too. On August 1st, 2011, Courage House opened its doors.
Words are inadequate to describe the power and beauty witnessed by all who attended this concert. Knowing that the vision of Courage House has literally been carried on the momentum provided by our concerts, it was so exciting to attend this concert! Songs emerged from the depths of the heart of God and were beautifully shared by the Courage to Be You featured artists. Their songs were captivating because they so plainly share the hearts of those still trapped in darkness and waiting to come home to Courage House. Philip LaRue and Gabe Scott, musicians from Nashville, TN, were also able to join us for this memorable night. But, the question of the night remained for everyone who attended, “Who will call these girls family?” They live shrouded in a nightmare, and they deserve to be rescued and brought into a place of beauty.
While pictures of Courage House played on screen, those gathered declared with their voices that our God is the God who will rescue and redeem what the world has said cannot be. Sometimes, the lyrics were punctuated with loud excited shouts over the celebration that all of hearts feel as the girls are finally beginning to come home! As a testament to the power behind the vision of Courage House, testimonies were shared by two courageous survivors who received standing ovations. It was an incredibly encouraging and powerful night for all who attended. Even though Natalie Grant was unable to attend, the 90 person choir from William Jessup University wowed the audience as they accompanied Stephanie Midthun, C2BU Creative Director.
The concert and words shared by the speakers resonated in all hearts; real change is possible and that transformation begins by calling every Courage House princess, family. We cannot wait for more nights like this one. Truly, light is invading the darkness here. What beauty is seen as the shadows dissipate. One day, the voices of our girls will triumph over the darkness and declare what we have seen at this concert. Their destinies are so very beautiful.
