Scotland’s rocking reverend has teamed up with Wet Wet Wet guitarist Graeme Duffin to record a charity single in aid of a charity improving healthcare in some of the world’s poorest communities.
Very Rev Albert Bogle said his song Jubilee Hope was written to mark the “epic journey” of a medical ship of the same name from Glasgow to Lake Victoria in Tanzania in 2014.
The vessel is operated by The Vine Trust, which was established by the minister in 1985, and provides basic health care to around 450,000 people living in an area where there is no primary healthcare provision.
Mr Bogle, who recently stood down as minister of St Andrew’s Parish Church in Bo’ness, said: “The song is a bit of an anthem, it has a summer feel to it and a tinge of Africa about it.
In the midst of all our present world crises, Jubilee Hope reminds us the possibility of an alternative world view
Rev Albert Bogle
“It is just another way to inspire people to see we can all make a difference in the world and echoes the thoughts of US President Barack Obama when he speaks of the "audacity of hope".
“In the midst of all our present world crisis, Jubilee Hope reminds us the possibility of an alternative world view.”
The reverend, who was moderator of the Church of Scotland’s General Assembly in 2012-13, added: “It is about a sense of rejoicing that the Vine Trust is working with so many volunteers and has achieved this amazing gift of a ship that has gone into Lake Victoria, where it is making a huge difference to the lives of many people.”
Duffin was never an official member of Wet Wet Wet but recorded albums and played live with the group. He has collaborated with Mr Bogle and his band for eight years.
He said: “I was excited about the song because it is a very hooky, catchy song and after hearing the original demo version I saw a lot of potential in it.
“It is a very appealing song both musically and lyrically and very positive, upbeat and hopeful.”
Founded in 1985, The Vine Trust sends 400 volunteers a year to work in Peru and Tanzania, helping to improve healthcare and education in some of the world’s poorest communities.
Jubilee Hope is available to download on iTunes for 79p, with all proceeds going to the charity.
