When I visited our daughter Kenna in North Carolina last winter, I went to an awesome college ministry experience at UNC Charlotte called C4.
There I was introduced to a talented young man who sings, writes and leads worship. I want you to meet him today. (And stick around to the end of the post because he has a great giveaway!)
Jordan led worship for the first time 7 years ago, and it was then that he felt the Lord calling him to become a full-time traveling worship leader. “I looked out and I saw some of my friends worshiping, and I could feel God tearing down walls inside their hearts.” Connell said. “There is something beautiful that happens when we surrender, and finally let God have all of us. I knew this had to be God, because it sure wasn’t me! He used me in spite of myself.”
At 21, Jordan is a worship leader at C4 Charlotte, and a recording artist for TMG. He urges everyone to be the same behind closed doors as they are in public, whether they’re at church, work or school. Only when we are real with ourselves and with God can we worship in spirit and in truth, and that is what living for the everlasting looks like.
Tell us a bit about yourself, Jordan.
I love baseball! I grew playing through high school, and still to this day cannot get enough of the game. I am a religious Florida State fan, who just happens to be from North Carolina. I’m a closet Justin Bieber fan, but I guess after this I will not be in the closet anymore haha. I’m a chicken wing fan, any kind from anywhere.
I like to drive through the Carolina Countryside just to drive, especially on a beautiful Fall day. I like pocket tee’s more than v-necks, and I have at least 12 different colors of the same pocket tee.
Jordan, when did you first know you loved to sing and write music?
Writing and playing music has become such a huge part of my life, and it takes up a large portion of my time. I would find myself sitting at home writing music sometimes for days at a time, I think it was then that I realized I was hooked.
How did you first begin to lead worship?
I lead worship for the first time when I was 14, and it was by accident. My friend Evan was the leader of a Christian group at my High School, and he has asked me to play piano for the groups weekly meeting before school.
So we all get to school at 6:15 am that next Friday morning, (we met on Fridays) and Evan says: “hey Jordan your gonna have to sing today too.” By this point I was flipping out, I had never played and sang at the same time; especially not in front of anyone.
So time came for us to start, and I was so nervous. I was clammy, pale, and sweating; but then the most amazing thing happened. We started singing How Great is Our God, (it was 2004, it was brand new’ish then) and when I finally got the courage to open up my eyes I saw my friends worshiping; this was the moment I knew that God was calling to me lead worship.
I had never felt what it was like to be used by God before, and I never want to lose that feeling.
What does a week in your life look like for you right now?
Being a full-time musician really isn’t really all that demanding during the weekdays, it’s really on the weekends that my life gets a little crazy. Whether it’s traveling with my band to play at a church, or staying at home and leading at different local churches; weekends are the busy point of my week.
My favorite weeks are the one’s when I am able to go to my home church, and see my church family. It doesn’t happen that often any more because of my busy traveling schedule, but when it does I take full advantage of it!
What is your greatest desire as a worship leader/musician?
To be used. God does not call us to be served, he calls us to serve. The gifts and talents that I have been given were never mine, and I didn’t earn them.
God gave them to me to be used for His glory, and His fame. I am just a vessel, and I want to be used in whatever way He wants me to be used. I’m just giving back to Him what He gave me.
I also want to be approachable. I see so many worship leaders who hide themselves in green rooms before and after services, and it just gets under my skin.
A worship leader isn’t a cloud of mystery, he or she is a minister. Minister’s should not try to be superstars. I try my best to stray away from the fluff of being someone on stage, and just be normal.
I really enjoy talking with people after service, and hearing their stories. I have found some of my greatest encouragement in life from listening to these people, and seeing what God has done in their life. Our God is alive and well, and He is moving. We just have to be watching.
You have a giveaway for one person out there who comments. Tell us about it.
I’m giving away a “Creation Sings” shirt from my band and a signed 3 song sampler of my new album “Everything Everlasting” coming out in Feb. The winner will be the first ever to have/hear anything from it!
Okay–simply leave a comment here about Jordan’s music or telling us your favorite worship song, hymn or chorus. Winner announced Thrusday. Be sure to check out his music and “Like” him on Facebook!
Great sound, Jordan! All the very best to you. As far as my favorite worship song, it is oh so hard to choose, I let the Spirit lead me. So for today the “Ocean” song by 10 Shekel Shirt, also who can keep a dry eye through Amazing Grace.
My favorite is hard to pin down as there are so many, but my current fav is The Stand–we’ve been playing it in worship and I’m hearing it a lot on K-LOVE.
Music is one of my favorite (and a lot of times most effective) mediums of experiencing the peace, joy and strength of the Lord and being in His presence. I have too many favorites that speak to my heart to think of right now so I’ll just say both Roman and I really enjoyed listening to Jordan’s music and pray that God continues to anoint him to encourage others through his gift.
Jordan,
You sing from the heart. Loved it!
Your voice and style would work at our Coffee House at the Encouragement EXTREME Events! Definitely putting your name in our file!
So nice to hear an interview on a young person. Would have liked to have heard him when I was in Charlotte a couple of weeks ago. My favorite hymn is How Great Thy Art. I also enjoy How Great Is Our God and I Can Only Imagine.
Go Jordan! Just clicked the play button above, and wow…. You’ve got an anointed gift. Sold- out worship is hard for me for some reason–thank you for the encouragement!
So moved by the way you grabbed hold of God’s calling for you at such a young age! What a great role model for today’s youth. Keep singing…you have a wonderful gift!! Blessings!
Loved the song!! I am especially fond of the lyrics too…”my sins are washed away.” We all need to remember that everyday, that we are forgiven and loved!! Blessings to you Jordan!
Thanks Jordan, for blessing me today with Worship of our King. Your voice proclaims your heart love of the Savior. Thank you for ministering in His name.
Wow! Amazing talent, truly gifted! My favorite worship song is “He’s Real” that my pastor wrote. It moves me to tears every time I hear it, because I feel Him every time!!!
Yup, that’s right. Jordan is my friend. I have had the HONOR of leading worship along with him and not only that but we have seen God work in amazing ways together. I am so blessed to have his as my friend in the truest form. I love you bud….So did I win?
Jordan and my kids grew up in the same school for a few years. I have seen Jordan live out his calling when I’ve gone to hear him play and sing. God has huge plans for this vessel. Jordan, you have such a gift, and the Holy Spirit ALWAYS works through you to move me. Keep on keepin’ on! Love ya, brother!
Jordan, You just made me smile! I loved hearing about how our God is working in your life. My prayer for you is that you continue to seek Him first and walk in His way. May He continue to guide your path and may you continue to shine for him! God bless!
Thank you for sharing your faith, Jordan. What a blessing you are. I just listened to Adonai from your new album. Can’t wait to get the album. You are an inspiration!
Loved what you had to say about leading worship Jordan – and how you were called. I have been on worship team for years and just recently (and reluctantly) started leading. It is truly a leap of faith but God is working in my heart and working through me. My all time favorite worship song right now is “Revelation Song” by Phillips Craig & Dean. I cannot help but go to a place of intimacy and worship with God. Can’t wait to hear more from you in the future!
Enjoyed listening to Adonai on Jordan’s blog site. Closing my eyes, I could feel the love of Christ come through his voice. I believe God has great things in store for him in the days to come.
My favorite worship song changes all the time depending on what the Lord is at work with in my heart and life, right now “The Great I Am” sung by “New Life” has a special place in my heart. Praying you touch many through your music Jordan, and I would be blessed to enjoy worship to the Lord through the gift the Lord has given you Blessings,.
what an inspiration! I totally love him and what he does! i am so happy he has realized his potential and followed his heart to do something he loves and believes in .. and benefits others!
Hey Jorda it warms my heart when people who serve the Lord dose as tier self. I feel that you are a true blessing to whom ever hears your service. One of my favorite songs is I can only Imagine. I try to imagine some times will I bow will I stand will I be able to talk.I think it will be Kind of like performing infront of people for the fist time.
It is so exciting to see people committed to the Lord. I loved what Jordan said about serving others and using the gifts God has given him, he will be a blessing and encouragment to many.
I love the fact that Jordan loves to meet the people who worship with him. Until very recently I used to be in awe of the worship leaders and even the pastors at the churches I have attended over the years. Then I learned that they are people too and that the best ones are very approachable.
Right now my favorite worship song is “Holy God.” Our church recorded a live worship album last fall and this song is still my favorite.
Jordan… What an incredibly talented young man. I loved reading his “bio”- what a strong Christian man- great role model- Loves his God!! He has a true gift from Our Father, and he recognizes it and as he said… Wants to be used! God bless you, Jordan and I can’t wait to see what else God has planned for you!
Hey Pam, when the cd comes out it will be available at Family Christian Book stores, select Walmart and Targets, as well as on iTunes and Amazon. Hope this helps to answer your question!
-jc
Jordan…..it is such a wonderful blessing to see you young people allowing yourselves to be used by God! Our church allows our young people to preach, teach and/or sing. (They have even created videos)every 5th Sunday! I absolutely think that is such a great thing to do! You are our future! May God continue to bless you as you serve Him! Oh, by the way awesome music….Praise the Lord! I get so excited when our young ones serve the Lord so freely!
Jordan, you seem so real and at such a young age it is amazing to know your devotion to God and your dilegence in serving God with the glorious gift He has given you!
Jordan is truly anointed and talented! I love hearing his band sing praise on our campus!
My favorite worship songs are I’ll Fly Away and I Saw the Light! especially the David Crowder version!
Loved listening…..Can’t wait to hear more in February!
The music was very nice. Enjoyed listening. Hope to hear more from Jordan!
Great sound, Jordan! All the very best to you. As far as my favorite worship song, it is oh so hard to choose, I let the Spirit lead me. So for today the “Ocean” song by 10 Shekel Shirt, also who can keep a dry eye through Amazing Grace.
Sounds great, can’t wait to hear:) Awesome!
Look forward to hearing some of Jordan’s music.
My favorite is hard to pin down as there are so many, but my current fav is The Stand–we’ve been playing it in worship and I’m hearing it a lot on K-LOVE.
God bless you Jordan!
What a beautiful gift from above praise God.
Music is one of my favorite (and a lot of times most effective) mediums of experiencing the peace, joy and strength of the Lord and being in His presence. I have too many favorites that speak to my heart to think of right now so I’ll just say both Roman and I really enjoyed listening to Jordan’s music and pray that God continues to anoint him to encourage others through his gift.
Pingback: Giveaway with Jordan Connell | Karen Ehman: Live Your Priorities … | Harp and Bowl Worship
Jordan,
You sing from the heart. Loved it!
Your voice and style would work at our Coffee House at the Encouragement EXTREME Events! Definitely putting your name in our file!
Luann
It is so great to see a young person so grounded and serving the Lord. I teach young people and love to see the “I get it” moments. God bless!!
So nice to hear an interview on a young person. Would have liked to have heard him when I was in Charlotte a couple of weeks ago. My favorite hymn is How Great Thy Art. I also enjoy How Great Is Our God and I Can Only Imagine.
Go Jordan! Just clicked the play button above, and wow…. You’ve got an anointed gift. Sold- out worship is hard for me for some reason–thank you for the encouragement!
Loved the music!! I’m from Charlotte too, will have to check his schedule out!
I would enjoy being in a service where you lead; your humbelness would be refreshing.
Yes, serving is what it is about.
Thank you for being true to your heart by listening to God and sharing what he wants you to tell us with music. Powerful!
So moved by the way you grabbed hold of God’s calling for you at such a young age! What a great role model for today’s youth. Keep singing…you have a wonderful gift!! Blessings!
Loved the song!! I am especially fond of the lyrics too…”my sins are washed away.” We all need to remember that everyday, that we are forgiven and loved!! Blessings to you Jordan!
Thanks Jordan, for blessing me today with Worship of our King. Your voice proclaims your heart love of the Savior. Thank you for ministering in His name.
Wow! Amazing talent, truly gifted! My favorite worship song is “He’s Real” that my pastor wrote. It moves me to tears every time I hear it, because I feel Him every time!!!
Yup, that’s right. Jordan is my friend. I have had the HONOR of leading worship along with him and not only that but we have seen God work in amazing ways together. I am so blessed to have his as my friend in the truest form. I love you bud….So did I win?
Love your true servant perspective: “I’m just giving back to Him what He gave to me.”
A favorite hymn is “Freely” and song is “Strong Enough”
Jordan and my kids grew up in the same school for a few years. I have seen Jordan live out his calling when I’ve gone to hear him play and sing. God has huge plans for this vessel. Jordan, you have such a gift, and the Holy Spirit ALWAYS works through you to move me. Keep on keepin’ on! Love ya, brother!
I am always so moved by I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE LAMB because I truly do!
Jordan, You just made me smile! I loved hearing about how our God is working in your life. My prayer for you is that you continue to seek Him first and walk in His way. May He continue to guide your path and may you continue to shine for him! God bless!
Thank you for sharing your faith, Jordan. What a blessing you are. I just listened to Adonai from your new album. Can’t wait to get the album. You are an inspiration!
My favorite song right now is “Revelation Song”! I’m planning to check out Jordan’s music though and would love to win the prize pack.
Blessings,
Janet
gatorgirl66@hotmail.com
Loved what you had to say about leading worship Jordan – and how you were called. I have been on worship team for years and just recently (and reluctantly) started leading. It is truly a leap of faith but God is working in my heart and working through me. My all time favorite worship song right now is “Revelation Song” by Phillips Craig & Dean. I cannot help but go to a place of intimacy and worship with God. Can’t wait to hear more from you in the future!
Love the song. I pray God’s blessings over you as you lead worship.
Enjoyed listening to Adonai on Jordan’s blog site. Closing my eyes, I could feel the love of Christ come through his voice. I believe God has great things in store for him in the days to come.
My favorite worship song changes all the time depending on what the Lord is at work with in my heart and life, right now “The Great I Am” sung by “New Life” has a special place in my heart. Praying you touch many through your music Jordan, and I would be blessed to enjoy worship to the Lord through the gift the Lord has given you Blessings,.
what an inspiration! I totally love him and what he does! i am so happy he has realized his potential and followed his heart to do something he loves and believes in .. and benefits others!
Wonderful music by Jordan! I hope to hear his CD soon. My favorite worship song these days is How He Loves.
Jordan
I appreciate your sincerity and humility and approach to ministry. God Bless you in all the ministry the Lord has for you!
Hey Jorda it warms my heart when people who serve the Lord dose as tier self. I feel that you are a true blessing to whom ever hears your service. One of my favorite songs is I can only Imagine. I try to imagine some times will I bow will I stand will I be able to talk.I think it will be Kind of like performing infront of people for the fist time.
Hi Karen,
Thank you for this giveaway! Also thank you to Jordan. Incredible music. My favorite song is Waiting Here For You by Christy Nockels.
It is so exciting to see people committed to the Lord. I loved what Jordan said about serving others and using the gifts God has given him, he will be a blessing and encouragment to many.
I love the fact that Jordan loves to meet the people who worship with him. Until very recently I used to be in awe of the worship leaders and even the pastors at the churches I have attended over the years. Then I learned that they are people too and that the best ones are very approachable.
Right now my favorite worship song is “Holy God.” Our church recorded a live worship album last fall and this song is still my favorite.
Sounds fabulous!! Thanks for the chance to hear it!!
Anointed man of God! Awesome worship experience!
Jordan… What an incredibly talented young man. I loved reading his “bio”- what a strong Christian man- great role model- Loves his God!! He has a true gift from Our Father, and he recognizes it and as he said… Wants to be used! God bless you, Jordan and I can’t wait to see what else God has planned for you!
GOD BESS YOU FOR SHARING YOUR TALENTS FOR THE LORD MY FAVORITE SONG IS OH VICTORY IN JESUS PRAISE THE LORD WE ARE VICTORIOUS
Loved this…where can the cd be purchased?
Hey Pam, when the cd comes out it will be available at Family Christian Book stores, select Walmart and Targets, as well as on iTunes and Amazon. Hope this helps to answer your question!
-jc
Jordan…..it is such a wonderful blessing to see you young people allowing yourselves to be used by God! Our church allows our young people to preach, teach and/or sing. (They have even created videos)every 5th Sunday! I absolutely think that is such a great thing to do! You are our future! May God continue to bless you as you serve Him! Oh, by the way awesome music….Praise the Lord! I get so excited when our young ones serve the Lord so freely!
Jordan, you seem so real and at such a young age it is amazing to know your devotion to God and your dilegence in serving God with the glorious gift He has given you!