Biography:
Talbot was born into a Methodist family with a musical background in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and started learning to play the guitar at an early age. At age 15 he dropped out of school and was performing as a guitarist for Mason Proffit, a country folk-rock band formed with his older brother Terry.
Talbot embarked on a spiritual journey that led him through Native American religion and Buddhism to Christianity. At this point he and his brother, Terry, joined the Jesus Movement, recording the album Reborn which was re-released by Sparrow Records (originally released as The Talbot Brothers on the Warner Brothers label).
Two solo albums followed for Talbot: John Michael Talbot (1976) and The New Earth (1977). Both of these were produced by Billy Ray Hearn.
Reading the life of Saint Francis of Assisi, he was inspired to begin studying at a Franciscan center in Indianapolis. He became a Roman Catholic and joined the Secular Franciscan Order in 1978. He started a house of prayer, The Little Portion.
Talbot moved The Little Portion to Eureka Springs, Arkansas on land he had purchased during his Mason Proffit days. He founded his own community, the Brothers and Sisters of Charity, at Little Portion Hermitage as an "integrated monastic community" with celibate brothers and sisters, singles, and families. By 1989, Talbot had married Viola Pratka (with the permission of the Catholic Church). Pratka was a former Incarnate Word Sister who had come to the community in 1986.
Per the community's General Constitutions, Talbot's title is "General Minister and Spiritual Father". For many years, he has promoted the work of Mercy Corps.
The hermitage suffered a fire in April 2008 in which the chapel, library and many common areas were destroyed.
On April 10, 2010 the Bishop of Little Rock, Anthony Taylor, dedicated the new buildings. On October 2, 2010 the Brothers and Sisters of Charity at Little Portion Hermitage celebrated the opening of the new monastery church and common center.
Sing A New Song
John Michael Talbot Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Sing a new song unto the Lord
Sing a new song unto the Lord
songs of praise and thanksgiving
singing and dancing in this celebration.
INSTRUMENTAL INTERLUDE
The lyrics to John Michael Talbot's song "Sing a New Song" speak of the joy and celebration that comes with praising and giving thanks to the Lord. The chorus is a call to action, urging listeners to put aside old songs and traditions and instead sing a new song to the Lord, a song of praise and thanksgiving. The repetition of the chorus emphasizes the importance of this message, as if reminding listeners that it is time to break free from old patterns and find new ways to worship and connect with God.
The instrumental interlude is a moment of reflection, a chance to pause and allow the music to fill the space. In many ways, it serves as a bridge between the first and second choruses, emphasizing the message of the song while also providing a moment of musical transition. Overall, the lyrics to "Sing a New Song" are a powerful reminder that worship is a living, breathing experience that can always be renewed and refreshed if we are willing to put in the effort.
Line by Line Meaning
Sing a new song unto the Lord
Let us offer a fresh and inspiring melody to God, a song that has never been sung before, symbolizing refinement and spiritual rebirth.
Sing a new song unto the Lord
Reiterate the need to present a new and unique form of worship to God, a song that encapsulates His mightiness, grace and love.
songs of praise and thanksgiving
Our new song should exalt Him for who He is, His mercies, goodness, and blessings that we enjoy daily, acknowledging the magnificent works of His hands.
singing and dancing in this celebration.
Our worship should involve joyful sounds expressed through uplifting rhythms, movements and dance that demonstrate our gratitude and adoration for Him.
Contributed by Audrey G. Suggest a correction in the comments below.