You just know Colin Buchanan is involved when the Archbishop of Sydney puts on a blond wig and throws a plastic crocodile into the audience.
Almost one thousand children and their equally excited parents raised the rooftop at St Andrew's Cathedral yesterday for two sold-out Christmas concerts with their favourite songster and his surprise guest, Peter Jensen.
It was not the first time Dr Jensen has been on stage with the singer. At an evangelistic rally in 2001 the Archbishop caused a sensation by donning dark glasses and joining Colin in the now famous "Bible rap'.
The crocodile symbolised sin (if you're not careful, it will sneak up and "snap'). Similarly, the Playschool presenter and country music star has come to symbolise much-loved Bible-based children's songs that are sung in cars, lounge rooms and Sunday schools across the country. Parents say his music helps them to teach the Bible to their children. Kids just think he's cool.
In scenes reminiscent of The Wiggles in concert, there was bubble blowing, dancing and lots of arm waving. The delighted audience knew every word off by heart and had probably been singing all week in preparation.
The concert was the first of its kind for the Cathedral, which has recently been heritage listed. It is part of a move to make the building more accessible to youth and young families.
The Dean, Phillip Jensen, says cathedrals need to be welcoming to everyone so that all can hear the gospel. "Children are some of the most important people in this," he said.
Mr Jensen said Colin Buchanan was a "terrific performer who genuinely loves kids and loves Jesus". "It's wonderful to hear little children recite Isaiah 53:6," he said. "I'd have him back anytime."
Mr Jensen said the message of Jesus was alive and well on the streets of Sydney this year, particularly through outdoor carol singing, but churches still need to be taking active steps to encourage consideration of the gospel.
"Should we be promoting Jesus? Of course. These concerts are one way to do it, and it will be bigger and better next year."
