Published on: 09/07/2026
A new song has been recorded by a curate to share a personal story and help encourage others.
Revd James Gould, Curate at St Francis Bramley and St Leonard’s Thrybergh, has played the guitar for many years but never felt confident with his singing. Ordained as a deacon in 2024 and as a priest in 2025, he felt nervous when he had to lead a service involving singing acapella (without accompanying music) in front of a congregation.
James explains:
‘I was terrified, rubbish at singing, and had no confidence. I couldn’t do it, had to look at Helen (Terry, Priest-in-Charge) and thankfully she took over. I was so disappointed with myself for being unable to. I had to do something about it – so I started taking singing lessons. I needed to learn to sing a bit, and I needed some confidence.’
Originally from Rugby, James moved to Sheffield for university and completed a degree in Biblical Studies, and met his now-wife whilst studying in the city. He trained and worked as a primary school teacher in Leicester for 11 years before completing an MA in Theology, Ministry and Mission with St Hild College whilst on placement at St John’s Owlerton.
As part of his journey, he recorded this song. James adds:
‘The message of it has a huge part of my heart – knowing that I am scarred and broken, but knowing that it is through our brokenness that Jesus can use us the most. That he has scars too, and it is through his scars on the cross that God was given glory. The song is a prayer that Jesus would shine through our pain and scars.
‘The song references Peter, Job, and David who all knew pain and loss. It is a prayer that our pain and loss would somehow bring glory to Jesus. It is hard to accept sometimes, but when Paul wished his suffering would end, Jesus said to him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” So, like Paul, can we “boast all the more gladly about [our] weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on [us]”? (2 Cor 12.19)
‘Henri Nouwen said, “Many people suffer because of the false supposition…that there should be no fear or loneliness, no confusion or doubt.” but “the paradox is that the way out is the way in, that only by entering into communion with human suffering can relief be found.”
‘The truth is, when we bring our pain and scars, and find embrace with the God who was scarred for us. And the amazing part is, that’s how God is glorified.
‘I hope the song can give words to others in worship, and help people allow Jesus to use their scars and pain for his glory. They are not something to hide or be ashamed of.’
You can hear the song here: https://open.spotify.com/track/0tytMWYRm4459gYD5mFtTh?si=775da1bd5dd1436b
