MANILA, Philippines — In this time of rift between the government and the Church, fueled by Pres. Rodrigo Duterte’s “stupid God” remark, the recent Manila concert of Christian worship singer Don Moen comes as a rejuvenating experience in reaffirming faith to God.
The American singer, songwriter and producer of Christian worship music opened his jam-packed Araneta Coliseum concert with his song “Our Father,” setting the mood for a night of worshipping the Almighty.
“Hear our prayer. We are Your children. And we've gathered here today (bless me). We've gathered here to pray,” Don sang.
He then sang “Give Thanks” to remind everyone not to forget the sacrifices of God to the people: “Give thanks with a grateful heart; Give thanks to the Holy One; Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His Son.”
The concertgoers sang with the pastor all night long, with songs such as “Thank You Lord,” “Arise,” “I Want To Be Where” and “Love Came Down.” Some were standing and waving their hands, while others shed tears as they sang their hearts out.
Moen also sang “How Great is Our God,” pulling heartstrings with an emotional lyrics of “Name above all names; You are Worthy of all praise; and My heart will sing how greats is our God.”
In the song “Hiding Place,” Don told the audience through the song that they will never be alone as God is just waiting for people to turn to Him so He can comfort them.
“You are my hiding place; I run to You; I need Your mercy and grace; To see me through; So I'll run to You,” the song said.
Other songs performed by Don and his band included “Above All,” “Deeper In Love,” “Shadow In Your Light,” “Treated Her Right,” “Mi Corazon,” “He Never Sleeps,” “Still,” and one of his biggest hits, the staple church service song “God Will Make A Way.”
Apart from his concert in Manila, the singer will also perform in Iloilo, Cebu, Pampanga and Laguna for his “God Will Make A Way” Philippine tour, presented by Ovation Productions. — Video by Kat Leandicho