Christian singer-songwriter Matt Maher was named the breakthrough artist for 2010 by The Associated Press.
His latest album is titled "Alive Again."
Over the past few years, Maher has been on quite a journey, making the transition from full-time ministry at his home church in Mesa, Ariz., to life as a respected worship leader with an international platform. He is by no means an ordinary worship artist.
Catholic and a contemporary musician is not an ordinary combination, and wherever he goes, he is building a bridge and breaking common stereotypes. When Pope Benedict XVI visited the United States in 2008, Maher was asked to lead worship for the Rally for Youth and Seminarians in Yonkers, N.Y. that was attended by 25,000 people.
A popular performer at ecumenical youth ministry conferences and rallies, Maher sees music as a powerful tool to connect with contemporary Christians.
"It wasn't something I really desired," he told The 700 Club. "I gave my life to God when I was 20 - in the midst of that I started writing. In 2005, I was at a Passion Conference, and I really had a sense that God was calling me to travel."
Maher holds on loosely to his plans. Instead, he seeks God in everything and is ready for where God leads.
"You're either moving forwards or backwards," he said. "There is no such thing as standing still."
Maher continues to pull in accolades for his work both as a solo artist and a collaborator, picking up a total of six nominations at the 41st Annual GMA Dove Awards. The Dove Award nominations cap a career-accelerating 2009 for the longtime worship leader and songwriter. iTunes Store also has named the song, "Alive Again," as the Best Christian and Gospel Single of 2009.
As the acknowledgements and awards for his accomplishments keep growing, he has set out to treat people the same.
"Everyone is made with dignity and in the likeness to God," he said.
Maher talked about his development as a performer, his inspiration for this music, and his newest CD on the Sept. 2 edition of the CBN Newschannel's Midday News. Click play to watch the interview.