While performing concerts around the country, the Christian rock band Sanctus Real encourages audiences with songs emphasizing the importance of clinging to God’s promises in the midst of life’s challenges and storms.
The Dove Award-winning and Grammy-nominated group is made up of lead singer Matt Hammitt, guitarist Chris Rohman, bass player Dan Gartley, drummer Mark Graalman and Pete Prevost on the guitar, banjo and piano.
The songs on their latest album, “Run,” are designed to help believers reflect and respond to biblical truths.
“These songs were written with a purpose — sharing our hearts and experiences we’ve gone through recently,” Rohman said. “When trials come, we are able to have hope because of our relationship with Christ. God’s love for His children never fails.
“We want to remind people that whatever trial they may be dealing with, God is with you and will never leave you. I think the honesty in the lyrics really resonates with people. It’s our desire that this album is just a continuation of what we have been doing for the past 16 years. We’re thrilled to be able to share these songs with people.”
Over the past few years, the group has faced several challenging situations and seasons.
In 2010, Hammitt’s son, Bowen, was born with a serious and rare heart defect, Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS). In babies with HLHS, the left side of the heart cannot pump blood, so the right side must supply both the lungs and the body. Without surgical intervention, the condition is fatal. Next year, Bowen will have his third surgery. Since Bowen’s birth, thousands of people from around the world have sent messages of encouragement while committing to pray.
Hammitt and his wife, Sarah, have gained first-hand knowledge and awareness of the practical, financial, emotional and spiritual needs that families endure while caring for a child with a congenital heart defect. Desiring to help others, they have created the Whole Hearts Foundation, designed to assist families with similar conditions and provide supportive resources.
Another trial for Sanctus Real occurred in 2012, when the tour bus they were traveling in caught on fire following a concert, destroying all of their personal belongings. Fortunately the bus was covered by insurance, and band members were blessed during this time by the support of fans who felt led to reach out with financial support and help the group get back on the road.
Through it all, band members continued to hold onto God’s promises in the midst of these trials, and their unwavering faith during these circumstances provided countless opportunities to share the gospel.
“When bad things come your way, you can either be angry or bitter — or you can let them shape, mold and teach you lessons about life,” Hammitt said. “It’s our desire that people will be encouraged as they see that we have been brought closer to Christ through our trials, and He is the ultimate source of comfort and strength. By bringing others to Christ during a time of struggle, we want to lift up the body of Christ and further the work of the Kingdom, in all things giving glory to God along with praise and thanksgiving.”
Today with eight No. 1 radio singles and digital track sales exceeding 1 million, the group has heard countless stories about their original songs influencing families and drawing them closer to the Lord.
One of their newest songs, “Pray,” was selected as the 2013 National Day of Prayer theme. “We hope this song serves as a reminder for Christians how important it is to keep a healthy prayer life,” Rohman said. “Even when you don’t know what … to pray, just cry out to Jesus. We need to bring all of our cares and burdens to Him.”
Share with others: