Through his ministry Joel Goddard strives to lead others in praise and worship so that they may know the truth of the scripture. Born and raised in Dacula, Georgia, a rural community 40 miles northeast of Atlanta, music has always been an integral part of Joel's life. He has sung in church choirs from the age of three, participated in the choral programs throughout his school years, and was a vocal-performance major at Shorter College, receiving his Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance. He composed his first song at the age of eleven, a tribute to his Grandfather who had just passed away. Most of the songs Joel sings the Lord has given him.
After growing up in a small community in a Christian home, his first year of college sorely tested the values and beliefs he had been taught. He was exposed to many new ideas, beliefs, and life styles. It took an intense and personal confrontation with God for Joel to get back to his roots and to realize that God had called him for special work. Through that work, Joel has seen many lives changed. For three years he sang during college breaks with two college classmates. Calling themselves "Chosen", they traveled all over the country leading praise and worship at revivals, youth retreats, and church services. After his two friends became unable to travel, Joel felt God calling him to continue the work and, with God's grace, he is doing just that. In following God's leadership, Joel has been privileged to see souls won into the Kingdom. Just as important to him is seeing many Christians learn how to worship, something we seem to have forgotten to do. In the midst of our busy lives, in the midst of our hurry to achieve and, especially, in the midst of our pain, we must learn to praise and worship the Lord who gave us life.
This will be Joel's second time speaking at WInter Breakout. When he was with us in 2006, he had to leave early, so he could make it home in time for the birth of his second child. For more info about Joel, or to hear some of his music, visit his website at www.joelgoddard.org
