08/24/2026
Bill and Gloria Gaither wrote the song in 1971, during a turbulent period in American history and while expecting their third child. With war, social unrest and uncertainty seemingly everywhere, the Gaithers found themselves wondering what kind of world their child would inherit. The answer they found was one of hope, that their confidence in the future didn't depend upon the world being certain, but upon their faith that Christ lives.
What began as an intensely personal song went on to become one of the most enduring works in modern gospel music, crossing generations, denominations and musical styles for more than half a century.
For this Echoes In The Iron performance, Rebecca Cameron and Kimberly Gordon Brooks are joined by Bill Arnold inside a place whose own story stretches back nearly two centuries.
St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church in Urbana, Ohio was established in 1825 and is deeply connected to the history of Urbana's Black community. Among its founding members was Lewis Adams, a free Black man who became a conductor on the Underground Railroad, helping freedom seekers on their journey north. Nearly 200 years later, St. Paul remains a place where faith, music, community and history intersect.
There is something particularly powerful about hearing a song built around hope in uncertain times performed within walls connected to generations who lived that idea.
This is Rebecca Cameron and Kimberly Gordon Brooks performing “Because He Lives,” accompanied by Bill Arnold, filmed by Echoes In The Iron at St. Paul A.M.E. Church in Urbana, Ohio.
A big thank you to the local sponsors who brought this session to life and support the positive impact of local music - People's Savings Bank, Champaign County Arts Council John Bry Kimberly Gordon Brooks St Paul AME Church
Rebecca Cameron Violassi Kimberly Gordon Brooks Historic Urbana Historic St. Paul Neighborhood
