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Christian artist Phil Wickham will continue Lee University’s spring U-Church series on Sunday, Feb. 23, at 7:30 p.m. in the Conn Center.

A native of California, Wickham began leading worship at the age of 12. His parents encouraged him not only to sing popular worship songs, but to begin to write his own. This encouragement from his parents led Wickham to begin writing congregationally friendly worship songs on his way to becoming a full-time musician. Wickham draws from influences such as Rufus Wainwright, Coldplay, and Keane to create a unique sound not typically found in worship music.

Wickham’s most recent album, “The Ascension,” was inspired by “Songs of Ascent” passages in the book of Psalms. These songs were sung by the Jews when they would ‘ascend’ to the Holy Temple. The singer puts a modern spin on the melodic hymns that speak of God’s remarkable grace and unfailing love.

“God no longer dwells in the city or in the temple. But the Church has become the city. The Church has become his temple,” Wickham explains. “Every time we get together as a body … his temple is gathering together. He’s living inside of us, creating a special moment that’s been ordained. I wanted to write modern Songs of Ascent.”

Wickham’s previous album releases include “Phil Wickham,” “Cannons,” “Heaven & Earth,” “Response,” “Singalong,” and “Singalong 2.”

U-Church is a free, non-ticketed event for students, alumni and the community. Seating is first-come, first-serve, and doors will open at 6:30 p.m.

Childcare is available for all who attend. Please contact Christie Wyatt at [email protected] for more information.

For a chance to win contests, as well as have input on future artists, please follow U-Church on Twitter @LeeUChurch.

For more information about U-Church or other campus ministries, contact Joyce Lane at [email protected] or 423-614-8347.