Christian Country Music International Convention coming to Branson

The Country Gospel Ministries will celebrate its 30th anniversary this month in Branson.

Founded in 1996 by Billy Hale, as the Country Gospel Music Association, the nonprofit organization was created to help Christian Country artists, and to provide them a place to gather, worship, fellowship and encourage each other. 

Hale, along with his wife, Donna, established the CGMA as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, with its home base in Branson.  The couple were the guiding force behind the GGMA for years, guiding and promoting singers and songwriters.

Now known as Country Gospel Ministries, the organization is governed by a board of directors. Wendell Johnson is the CGM President, and his wife, Beverly, serves as Administrator.

The Country Gospel Ministries has three regions in the United States—Western, Central and Eastern. Additionally, there are international regions of the ministry, located in Kenya, Haiti and Canada.

Regional CGM conventions are held, and the International Convention brings members from all regions together in Branson each year. Their evening sessions begin with praise and worship, then feature the music of artists in attendance.

The annual awards presentation is a highlight of the International Convention, with awards given in 24 categories. Awards are presented both regionally and internationally.  Regional winners advance to the international level, where the award-winners are selected by a vote from their peers. The awards not only give encouragement to the recipients, but give the accreditation for their music. 

The Country Gospel Ministries International Convention and 30th Anniversary celebration will be held October 5 - 10 at Stone Castle Hotel and Conference Center in Branson.