5 on Friday - Set 49

Travis at Trav's Thoughts invites everyone to lay down a short set of music that takes their fancies for his 5 on Friday meme.

Last week I began Elvis Month with my Popculturedivas post, which featured five of The King's delta-blues gospel songs.

This week I'm showcasing five of what I consider his ballad gospel songs. I think Elvis' voice never sounded more tender nor more beautiful than when he sang to the Lord.

Travis had this to say about Elvis' gospel music last week:

"I have a theory that gospel music connected him so tightly to his mother and to his dead twin Jesse Garon, and that's where the passion and emotion can be heard in his recordings."

Cool theory, Travis. I definitely agree.

1 - In the Garden

And He walks with me
And He talks with me
And He tells me I am His own

And the joy we share
As we tarry there
None other has ever known

- C. Austin Miles



2 - Crying in the Chapel

You saw me crying in the chapel
The tears I shed were tears of joy
I know the meaning of contentment
Now I am happy with the Lord

Just a plain and simple chapel
Where humble people go to pray
I pray the Lord that I'll grow stronger
As I live from day to day

- Artie Glenn



3 - Take My Hand, Precious Lord

When my way grows drear
Precious Lord, linger near
When my light is almost gone

Hear my cry, hear my call
Hold my hand lest I fall
Take my hand, precious Lord, lead me home

- Allen / Dorsey



4 - Miracle of the Rosary

Oh, Blessed Mother we pray to Thee
Thanks for the miracle of Your Rosary

Only You can hold back
Your Holy Son's hand
Long enough for the whole world
To understand

- Lee Denson



5 - How Great Thou Art

O Lord my God!
When I in awesome wonder
Consider all
The worlds Thy hands have made
I see the stars
I hear the rolling thunder
Thy power throughout
The universe displayed

Then sings my soul
My Saviour God, to Thee
How great Thou art
How great Thou art

Then sings my soul
My Saviour God, to Thee
How great Thou art
How great Thou art

- Boberg / Hine