Karlene Bartolo

GC: Can you share an example of an experience behind one of the songs on the CD?

KB: Most of the songs I write come during time spent in meditation with the Lord. I remember there was a time that I felt so dark. The ministry felt like it was halted, nothing was happening - I could not get a breakthrough. I was not sure whether or not I was going or coming. I felt like the Lord was not fulfilling all His promises to me concerning the ministry. I questioned whether or not I should continue to believe that He called me to this ministry. Yet in that dark time, I felt such a compelling need to let Him know I knew He was in control. That was when He gave me Father Of Light. I just found myself begging Him to surround me with His glory, knowing that He is the "source and the air that I breathe" . As I meditated on the song, I found myself not focusing on how I felt or the circumstance but on the fact that God is God and deserves all of me.

GC: You wrote all the songs on this particular project. Have you written music for other artists as well?

KB: No. To date I have not submitted any of my material to other artists. I will tell you why. I really did not regard myself as a songwriter. I considered a songwriter as one who has the ability to listen to someone's vocal range and style, sit down and pen a song (quite simple). I did not consider myself as having that ability. The songs I've written, God just drops them in my spirit. The words and melody of the song all come at the same time. If I don't sit and write it down or tape it, I forget it. But over the past months, I've come to the realization that the art of songwriting is a new gift that God has birthed in me. Now I am more confident to take on the challenge of writing for other artists.

GC: What are your expectations for your music ministry?

KB: I am expecting great things from God for this ministry. My ultimate goal is to fulfill the purpose God has for me and to use the gifts He has entrusted me with to bring glory to His Name and to build His Kingdom. The sky is the limit for me. I am just a vessel waiting to be used by God. Wherever He sends me and whomever He sends me to, it is my obedience to Him that will determine the extent of this ministry.