A recent report on Mtv.com stated that Brian "Head" Welch, the guitarist and a founding member of secular rock band KORN, has decided to part ways from his previous music career to pursue a life with Christ. Welch also has plans to leave for Israel on February 28, 2005.

Apparently, a "letter of resignation" has been written on February 8th, in which Welch stated his reasons for departure, including strong moral objections to Korn's music and videos.

Welch shared on KRAB, a Bakersfield, California radio station, that, "I can go up there and play those songs and those solos but ... I distanced myself from Korn for probably a year and a half, two years. I just wanted to fade away. It was crazy. I was so gone. But I found my way out and I want to help anyone that wants to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I had to go through the lows to appreciate the highs and it's not perfect but it's ... near."

Stated on Korn's official website, Welch "has chosen the Lord Jesus Christ as his savior, and will be dedicating his musical pursuits to that end." The band "respects Brian's wishes and hopes he finds the happiness he is searching for."

Welch's strong conviction in this choice has encouraged many Christians to remain faithful in the midst of the secular culture of immorality and temptation.

Gregory W. from Bakersfield, California shares, "What Welch had openly announced was really inspiring. His story really is like my story. It was a hard struggle for me to remain a faithful Christian growing up in a culture that approves and lives by false truths and perverted morals. I lived a painful double life, one inside and one outside of church... and many times, I compromised the truth that my spirit knew. In shame and guilt, I just shamefully lived on in numbness. But God saved me out of the darkness. I hope that many young people can realize how the amazing power of God's grace and mercy can set us free from a wrong life."

Stories of faith in the secular culture continue to guide many towards the presence of God, revealing the work of God in bringing quality change in culture. May many prayers be lifted for Welch and many others who are making decisions to be the good example for musicians and the entire community.


Ruth Powell
ruth@breathecast.com