FROM THE CHURCH…

CATHOLIC BISHOPS:

"I want to take this opportunity to thank you for coming to our diocese and being part of our annual Youth Rally. Your visit was a powerful experience for our youth and youth leaders.  I am happy to know that you have been receiving positive comments from the youth who attended the Rally. I would be happy to speak with other bishops and give them a positive recommendation about your Anno Domini Mass.  May God continue to bless all you do to inspire young people in our country."

Ricardo Ramirez, C.S.B. Bishop of Las Cruces

"I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Sal Solo of ACTS Evangelsim and Worship at our most rcent Conference of the National Catholic Student Coalition in late December of 2005.  Sal lead several of our prayer sessions and presented workshops as well. I  attended two of his workshops.  I can say without any hesitation that Sal does present material in contemporary ways that touch the hearts and minds of people young and old.  His teaching is thoroughly Catholic and according to what I witnessed in full comformity with the teachings of the Catholic Church."

Peter A. Rosazza, D.D. Auxiliary Bishop of Hartford CT

"It was a very successful event and I know that the youth and adults who attended very much enjoyed your presentation to them. Thanks for being with us for the day. Best personal wishes to you as you continue to carry out the work of the Lord."

Patrick R. Cooney, Bishop of Gaylord MI

"Sal Solo, an Englishman now living in Chicago, was the main presenter of the day. He had a wonderful ability to engage the kids with visual images, music and a challenging message."

Bishop Matthew Clark, Rochester NY

"I celebrated Holy Mass at Marist High School in Chicago on January 25, 2002 for about 1,300 students. The presentation for the day was coordinated through the Office of Peace and Justice of the Archdiocese of Chicago. Mr. Sal Solo provided the Anno Domini selection for the liturgy. The program was well received by the Marist High School community. I would recommend him for similar occasions."

John R. Gorman, Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago

"Sal Solo has been known personally to me for some years. Although a professional pop singer, he has continually worked on the evangelisation of our Catholic youth, organising concerts and prayer meetings and giving Christian concerts. I have supported him in all of this because of my desire to reach our youth and can recommend you to do the same."

Cardinal Hume, Late Archbishop of Westminster

"Music is the primary language of most young people and Sal and his associates strive to go further and teach youth another language, that of faith and prayer."

Bishop Emil A. Wcela, Rockville Centre, New York

"His music is contemporary but his message is the eternal message of the Gospel. His manner is gentle and respectful but warm and enthusiastic. I recommend him highly to you."

Vincent Logan, Bishop of Dunkeld, Scotland

"The initiatives you take on behalf of young people are most commendable and I am happy to assure you of my support at all times. I hope that your music ministry may continue to flourish both at home and abroad."

Archbishop Luigi Barbarito, former Apostolic Pro-Nuncio

EVANGELICAL CHURCHES:

"Sal Solo''s multimedia concert is magnificently creative, deeply moving, consistently biblical and spiritually refreshing. His appeal is surprisingly transgenerational and is ultimately the appeal of the Gospel, passionately and clearly presented."

Dr. Wayne Martindale, Wheaton College, IL, USA

"Sal Solo is a great example of what God does through people open to His will. Sal''s performance mirrors his own journey away from the English rock scene and toward the One who is the source of all music. Sal gives his talent wholeheartedly to reach people with great passion. He overwhelms with sight and sound and carries people into their own new and exciting journey that they will never forget. He is truly a bright light set upon a hill."

Paul L. Sirvatka, Willow Creek Community Church, IL, USA

"He has devised a compelling and entertaining programme of music and picture presenting the fundamentals of the Christian faith. All of those concerned about our mission should take advantage of Sal Solo''s talent and commitment."

Rev. John Heidt, Texas

"I have found him to be an extremely gifted and talented performer. He communicates extremely well and I believe there is a strong anointing of the Holy Spirit on his music."

Karen Hutchinson, Kensington Temple, London

"Sal Solo is excited about the Gospel. That is because the Gospel has changed his life, his behaviour, his world view, and therefore his future. I am pleased that Sal is influencing people and crowds who are way outside my sphere of influence."

Gerald Coates, Pioneer Churches, UK

"Sal Solo is a successful pop singer, broadcaster, and writer. He has brought a simplicity and professionalism to every challenge."

Fr. Brian D'Arcy, broadcaster and writer, Ireland.

"Sal is a personal friend of mine whom I can honestly say reminds me of Jesus. In fact he radiates a real sense of God''s peace and Christ''s presence that, sadly, in my experience, are rare qualities."

Steve Chalke, broadcaster and Baptist minister, UK

 

FROM THE YOUTH DIRECTORS…

I cannot thank you enough not only for your wonderful presentation but your willingness to be there for the youth in whatever they needed and your personal interaction with them. In the last three years, I have worked to change the Conference and truly bring the message to Christ to each of our youth. I have been committed to finding keynote speakers that would enhance the experience of the weekend and with your performance I certainly felt I hit a GOLDMINE. I have used entertainers and keynote speakers in the past that were excellent, you are the first keynote I had where I felt your work was a true MINISTRY to the Lord. Thank you for all that you are.

Toni Kerins, Archdiocese of New York

The Diocese of Gaylord, Michigan recently had the pleasure of having Sal Solo as the keynote speaker for our annual youth rally. We were all blessed by his music and his talk and his small group sessions given throughout the entire day. Sal used each form of communication to really relate to all of us, not only the youth. His talk that he presented first thing in the morning, was very inspirational to all of the youth, he was able to keep them captivated on a Saturday morning! It was truly refreshing to be able to look at the youth getting involved with each other and listening to Sal teaching Christ's ways. The youth left the morning session wanting to dig deeper in their faith, he left it in a way that they would want to continue learning and growing in their faith.

Sal also presented three different small group "classes" we call break-out sessions. Everyone had to choose between five different sessions at any given time. The youth had already related so well to Sal's teachings that we had to turn some away and tell them to come back to a different session! The first thing he did before he started each session was to bring everyone physically closer, to really become a part of the session. They were each very personal to everyone involved and taught on subjects that the youth can understand and relate to. His topics taught on music, faith and chastity, which are all very important aspects of a teenager's everyday life.

The final event that Sal put on was his amazing, multi media, interactive concert. The one way to speak to any youth today is through music and video and Sal has accomplished that tremendously! Sal took the teachings that Christ taught through the Gospels and turned it into an amazing concert that all of the-youth truly enjoyed! And to see the whole gymnasium filled with a throng of teenagers, listening, worshipping and praising God, was breathtaking.

I highly recommend Sal Solo to come and share his giftedness for communication, sharing love and peace and leading youth in a most humble way to Christ! He was a gift to work with, sharing many, thoughts and ideas way before the rally even happened. Sal was very quick to respond to any questions and was always ready to assist when he could. At the rally, I was very impressed also with the way he became part of the audience, a real friend to everyone! He joined right in with everyone, even when it came time for lunch he sat right with the youth and shared his free time! I definitely would enjoy working with him again on such a project!

Veronica Brown, The Diocese of Gaylord, Michigan

 

8 Major Reasons why I promote Sal Solo in the Diocese of San Bernardino:

1. He incorporates Catholic Social Teachings in his agenda – e.g.) world hunger, peace and justice, poverty, and works of charity (he himself donates money and resources to such good causes as hungry children, homeless people, and poor families).

2. His performances are bilingual in English and Spanish.

3. He is liturgically oriented – He creatively integrates his music into liturgy, so that liturgy can be really “celebrated” with youth in a fun yet meaningful way.

4. He explains through his songs and talks some of the “Why do Catholics do that?” questions – e.g.) The Last Supper, Eucharist, Catholic Stewardship, etc.

5. He is nationally acknowledged – I have heard from many dioceses in the U.S. who have hosted him as keynote speaker, retreat master, youth rally leader, and they were quite happy with his performance.

6. He uses many different types of methods to reach our young people at their level – he incorporates skits, talks, songs, concerts, testimonies, personally-taken pictures from third world countries, world hunger statistics, and liturgy, to make “connections” between what they learn (theory, dogma, doctrine, theology, head-trip) and what they experience in life (the “reality,” the “real” issues in life).

7. He uses his own personal “conversion” story to be the powerful witness to Christ and what Christ has done to him – He is a “transformed” pop star at his early 20’s (He is now in his late 30’s).

8. He is very unique and ingenuous in his usage of high-tech light shows and power point presentations – He is truly a “one-of-a-kind,” 21st-century, Catholic musician in this new innovation!

On April 9th, 2005, the Diocese of San Bernardino held its First Diocesan Youth Rally facilitated by Sal Solo. The theme of the Youth Rally was “Pilgrimage to Justice.” We had about 250 participants for this event, mostly teens with some young adults and adults as well. Everyone enjoyed Sal’s presentation and concert. Sal’s presentation was very informational and educational. It opened many teens’ eyes to world hunger, poverty, and social justice and peace issues. One of the teens even stood up in the middle of the rally and shared that when he goes back to his parish, he will start collecting coins and pennies to help the hungry and homeless. Sal is doing an awesome job in catechizing the youth of today’s Catholic Church. He does a great job incorporating catechesis into today’s issues with the use of music, high-tech presentation, small group activities, and concert to make it attractive and appealing to all ages and generations, not only to youth.We were honored to have Sal Solo as the facilitator of our Youth Rally. He truly demonstrated his love and zeal for Christian ministry by making it inexpensive and affordable to youth as well as to the Diocesan Office. I highly recommend Sal Solo’s ministry and concert to be part of anyone’s experience

Kathy Cho, Director, Ministry with Youth Office, Diocese of San Bernardino CA

Youngsters were jumping, screaming, and clapping their hands all to the glory of our Lord and Savior. Music was the means by which the youth were able to forget their inhibitions and express themselves freely. You were truly the Pied Piper as they succumbed to your invitation to dance and offer praise with you on stage. What a great time they all had! Thanks for helping to make our youth rally in Honolulu a tremendous success. Your teachings and music pulled the theme "Transubstantiation" into terms that the youth could understand.

Rev. Deacon Walter Yoshimitsu, Director, Office of Diocesan Services, Honolulu

Sal Solo of ACTS E & W recently blessed our annual diocesan senior high rally by presenting the keynote address and a workshop, and performing his Evang-a-ganza Concert. In a word, Sal was "outstanding"! His message was perfectly on target with our theme. He spoke eloquently and held the young people's attention. And his music was enriching and incredibly energizing. Through the use of high tech video images, upbeat and inspiring music that kept the crowd dancing and clapping, and personal witness and prayer, Sal completely captivated the young people by sharing the Good News in ways they have not quite heard it before. Many young people and adults were moved to tears. I highly recommend Sal Solo for youth gatherings. The e-mails from young people who were moved by Sal keep coming to our office. Sal takes a personal interest in the young people at the rally by spending time with them informally between performances and presentations and they appreciate him. Sal did a great job at our diocesan rally.

Mike Hall, Director of Youth Ministry, Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston

Please be advised that Sal Solo of ACTS E&W recently traveled to our Archdiocese of Miami in Florida to appear at our biennial Archdiocesan Youth Conference, held on October 9 at Southwest Miami Senior High School in Miami. His duties at the conference included delivering a keynote address to middle school and high school adolescents from all over the archdiocese, performing in a special contemporary Christian music concert, and providing music and visual images for his very own Anno Domini Mass. Sal demonstrated throughout the day his gifts for reaching out to youth and communicating with them on a level they can understand. His talk was tailored specifically to our theme of the call and building the kingdom of God. His music was powerful and reinforced his message of God's love. Finally, his beautiful, lively, contemporary arrangement—the Anno Domini Mass--for the closing liturgy provided a powerful and spiritual end to a dynamic day. Clearly, Sal is a tremendous asset to Catholic youth ministry. The work that he continues to do through his nonprofit organization, ACTS E&W, is vital to our ongoing efforts to evangelize and reach out to Catholic teenagers. Sal's commitment to Catholic youth is evident in his preparation, talks, visuals, and songs.

Francis W. McGill, Coordinator of Youth Ministry,

Broward County, Archdiocese of Miami

Our Diocesan event, Youth Alive, provides an opportunity to bring the message of God's goodness, and love to the youth from around the Diocese of Ogdensburg. Sal's concert was a high-energy and spirit-filled visually powerful tool designed to effectively evangelize to every person who was privileged to participate.Sal's passion and love for Jesus Christ is certainly evident. His message is so powerfully conveyed through music, he engages those who witness it and gives great honor and glory to God. I recommend Sal to anyone who works in a Youth Ministry.

Sr. Rosemary Casaleno, SSJ Diocesan Youth Director, OGDENSBURG NY

Let me take this opportunity to express my thanks on behalf of our Youth Celebration planning staff and the entire delegation of youth and adults who attended our annual event. It was a pleasure to have you join us for the weekend and to hear your message of hope in our Lord.Your tremendous musical talents combined with your outstanding video presentations made for an effective presentation that both youth and adults appreciated and benefited. I especially enjoyed the Sunday presentation on Justice.

As you might remember besides my diocesan Director duties I teach a Justice and Peace Class in a Catholic high school religious studies class each day. The Monday after the Celebration one of my senior students asked me in class if I believed something that you had said concerning poverty. His question was, "Do you really think that there are people who live on $.50 a day In this world?" After some discussion, and some examples from our texts and other references, the small fact became a reality to the young man. The following week the pastor of this young man dropped by my office to tell me that he had found a pledge card for the annual Bishop Appeal collection included among his parish. The young man had pledged $175.00 or $.50 per day for this year. He had specified that his pledge be given to Diocesan Food Bank. Your words and message made an obvious impact on him and I assume many others.

Bragg Moore, Director of Youth Ministry, Diocese of Biloxi MS

Thank you so much for keynoting our annual Diocesan Youth Celebration last month. I am still receiving nothing but great response from the youth and adults who attended. I had asked you to bring the young people into a prayerful mode after some wild activityand you did so beautifully. We have never had 700 young people as a group quiet down so quickly. I am still amazed and I may ask what your secret is so that I may use it at some point myself.From your music and your words, you had our youth captivated. I have received comments from some of the youth and they site you as having renewed their faith and their hope.Sal, I pray your ministry continues to touch the hearts and minds of our young people. You are very gifted and those gifts are so needed to be shared with others.I hope to have you back in Memphis in the not too distant future. You are awesome!

Catherine Mensi, Director Office of Youth/Young Adult Ministries,

The Catholic Diocese of MEMPHIS TN

 

Please know how much we appreciated your service to us on the occasion of our Diocesan Youth Rally, March 30, 2003. As I mentioned in a previous conversation, the evaluation of your performance was very high, averaging 4.6 on a 5 point scale.Your ministry is very important for the teens in the United States because of the multimedia nature of your performance. Our MTV generation relates very well to the blend of visual and audio arts; they have been raised on it. Yet, it seems that yourperformance is unique in this respect; none of the other "concert keynote" artists have offered this unique approach. This was our 16th annual rally, and we have not had an opportunity to offer the visual element during the concert in any of the previous gathering. Thank you for your much needed, unique presentation.

Alma Richard, Director Office of Youth and Family Life,

DIOCESE OF WINONA MN

Sal Solo is a Catholic Youth Evangelist based in the Chicago region. He has served the youth of many dioceses around the country, and a number of parishes, schools, and conferences within the Archdiocese of Chicago.He was a presenter at our recent Festival of Faith for the Archdiocese, and also presented Liturgy for our Archdiocesan Youth Leadership Team. He uses music and video in a unique combination to speak the language of today's youth.I believe he has much to contribute to Catholic youth ministry in this country, and would highly recommend him for any youth event.

Angus McDonell, Archdiocese of Chicago

I highly recommend Acts E&W musical performer, Sal Solo.Sal perfomned at our Youth Leadership Conference 1ast summer and was extremely well received by our young participants. This talented performer has a unique presentation of computer graphics and song. With his world wide appeal and experience, many of the youth ministers in our diocese hire him to give their youth a new and modern approach to the Catho1ic Church.

Rhona Jane Lenhof, Associate director Youth Ministry, Diocese of Joliet IL

On June 1, 2003, St. Josaphat's parish, the Ukrainian Catholic Church in Rochester, NY held a youth day that included a spectrum of youth and adults.Sal Solo's music ministry speaks authentically about the love of Christ towards humanity. Thevideo presentation, singing, and conversation with the audience allow one to open himself or herself to God in a new way. What makes Solo's presentation powerful is that Christ and his teachings become the center of attention. Solo's desire to spread the message of Christ's love boldly encourages people to experience sincerity of one's beliefs. The message is powerful only when it is spoken from the experience. Young people today hunger to meet and be surrounded by people who not only speak, but try to live by what they say.  It was a pleasure to have Sal Solo share his life ministry with youth from the Ukrainian community. As one priest responded,"Thank you for showing us the other side of Christ" - the side that is fully human, yet filled with pure, divine love for us.

Maryana German, Associate Director of Youth Ministry, Eparchy of Stamford CT

I appreciated all the preparation you put into the talk on "The Church's Teaching On Sexuality." You gave them a lot to think about. Your witness to live a chaste life in the midst of all the temptations was powerful.You gave them very real examples that they could relate to and at the same time you were able to provide them with the truth's from the Bible and theCatechism. Your concert was a great way to end the day. The videos provided powerful images that enhanced your music and message. It was lively and upbeat, just what we were looking for. I wish you the very best as you continue to spread the Gospel to our young people. I was deeply touched by your commitment to living the Gospel in your own life and your passion to share it with others.

Tom McConnell, Diocese of Altoona PA

This past November we had the wonderful opportunity to conduct a Middle School and High School youth rally for the Diocese of Gary. Our presenter this year was none other than Mr. Sal Solo of ACTS E & W. Sal did a marvelous job of relating our theme: Arms Wide Open into his musical presentation. He spoke to over 250 Middle Schoo1 teens and over 100 High School youth of his faith and love for the Lord. But it wasn''t just his spoken message, Sal''s music and video imagery touched the hearts and sou1s of everyone present. He has a unique talent relating the Gospel message of Jesus to the lives of young people. I know many youth came to know Jesus in a more intimate way by the end of the rally. After his concert, Sal stayed around to personally speak to the youth and adults who were present. It was obvious that his ministry goes beyond the music and stage presence into the 1ives of individual teens. I believe his individual witness and attention was as effective as his musical program. In closing I would highly recommend Sal Solo for youth events, concerts, rallies, retreats or other gatherings. His spirit, energy and enthusiasm for the Gospel make him an ideal evangelist for Catholic young people.

Frank J. Zolvinski Director of Religious Education & Youth Ministry,

Diocese of Gary, IN

To those who are seeking a powerful messenger for teens:Sal's presentation was unique and dynamic and gave our young people a fresh new presentation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Sal has produced one of the latest and most innovative approaches to evangelization by using his gifts of creativity in his music and graphic video presentations. One of the things I most appreciated about Sal''s ministry here is that he was willing to engage with the people to get in touch with the spiritual needs of the community, especially the youth, and tailored his presentation to fit those needs. He made himself available to the people, and did concerts and ministry at two prisons while he was in our diocese. Sal worked with our young people at the rally and had some of them practice the music with him to sing during the Anno Domini Mass. I feel sure that they will never forget this experience. He was well received by all of our teens. Bringing teens to Christ is at the heart of Sal''s ministry. And it didn''t take long for us to see that prayer is the foundation of that ministry. He was a pleasure to have and I would be glad to recommend him to others who are looking for a fresh and unique approach to ministry. Our prayers will continue to be with Sal and his ministry to youth. May God be with all of us who arc striving to lead teens to Christ.

Sid McDaniel Director of Youth Ministry, Diocese of Alexandria, LA

"I really felt that God was in my heart. I really enjoyed Sal''s music." "Sal was Catholic and he celebrated who we are as Catholics. He wasinformative and touched our minds, hearts and souls. He was scriptural. I didn''t know this style of music and message was available to Catholic youth. We are alive!""Very interesting, entertaining and sincerely concerned about the kids and their ability to hear God''s call.""Your talks inspired me to be the best person I can be.""Sal was the coolest. He has changed my life completely!" With these comments from the participants at our 2002 World Youth Day Rally and a rating of 9.5 (out of 10) from the participants, what else can I say! Sal Solo is a talented performer who shares the Gospel message in a dynamic way. Sal has the unique ability to engage youth through inspirational multimedia in praise and worship as well as through moments of quiet prayer. Sal Solo is an outstanding Catholic evangelizer that you won''t want to miss!

Tim Colbert, Regional Director, Office of Youth Ministry,

Archdiocese of Cincinnati, OH

Sal Solo served as guest speaker at our Diocesan Youth Spectacular on February 24, 2002. Sal delivered a dynamic message to approximately 500 middle school students and their adult leaders. Not just anyone can speak to a group of 12-14 year olds. The young people responded enthusiastically to his multi-media presentation. they were moved to hear about serving those who are less fortunate than them, which is a tough message to deliver. Sal also worked well with our crew in setting up for the event. His patience and sense of humor is a great asset. Sal is a talented and spiritual presenter, and we hope to have him come back again for other diocesan conferences and workshops.

Toni Chapa, Diocesan Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry,

Diocese of Corpus Christi TX

Youth ministers throughout our country are addressing the same issues. How can we lead young people closer to Christ, deepen their personal relationship with Him and Encounter Him in a deeply spiritual way, while they struggle with the many activities they are involved in. Sports, jobs, many other extra-curricular activities, etc. are pulling our young people in many different directions. Each of them makes tough decisions and struggle with making positive choices everyday. We know that through all of the ups and downs, good times and bad, Christ is the one true person these young people can turn to live a positive lifestyle, and we strive to lead them closer to Christ. If we want to speak to someone and work with someone who through his ministry tries to address the issues stated previously, then Sal Solo does just this. Sal uses modern technology, to bring a powerful and solid Catholic theological message to our young people. I witnessed 250 young people who were lacking enthusiasm and life, but when Sal began his concert, began sharing his message through his music and multi-media production, the young people came to life. For the duration of his concert many transformations took place among the young people and adults as well. For this short time, lives were changed and drawn closer to Christ. As Sal Solo continues his ministry here in the United States, is he making a difference? Is he bringing a renewed spirit and energy to celebrating our life in Christ? Is he changing hearts and minds, bringing about a transformation, that leads people more deeply into their faith and relationship with Christ? My answer has to be a simple yes. Through Sal''s time, energy and ministry he is making a difference in the lives of many. But we have to remember that if we make a difference in the life of one person, one child, then we have made a difference, and Sal Solo''s ministry is making a difference.

Steven Polley, Director of Youth Ministry and Religious Formation,

Diocese of Dodge City, Dodge City, KS

I want to thank you for your contribution to our Diocese of El Paso youth ministry outreach. Your ministry is truly blessed. We appreciate you sharing your awesome gift of music and technology to proclaim the Goodnews. You were here in March 8-10, 2002 and we are in June 2002 some young people still speak how they were touch through your presentation. Thanks and I hope and pray you continue to share the goodnews to all the world.

Marcos G. Martinez, Director of Youth Ministry, Diocese of El Paso TX

Every year, we have a Diocesan Junior High Convention (for 6th-8th graders), and this year, we invited Sal Solo to be our keynote speaker/performer. Those of us in youth ministry know that music is one of the primary languages of young people, and Sal is very much in tune with that. His concert is a mix of awesome contemporary and traditional music, amazing visuals and computer graphics, and personal faith witness. All combined, it creates a unique and powerful faith experience for the teens and adults alike. I recommend Sal for any youth event. If a parish or youth conference is in need of top-notch musical talent, reflections about Jesus Christ and the life of faith, and a performer who has the ability to draws teens in, I recommend Sal Solo to you

Bud Miller, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry,

Diocese of Fall River, Massachusetts.

His presentation is remarkable and the adult leaders and youth participated fully in the event. His concert is a mix of media and music as well as his Anno Domini Mass. The mass was also enjoyed by the priests who were presiding and co-presiders stating it was one of the highlights of their priesthood. However, this is different, and someone would have to be very open to media being integrated into the celebration. All in all, you will enjoy having him in your diocese. I highly recommend him.

Charise Hansen, Youth Ministry Coordinator, Diocese of Fresno, CA

We have had the pleasure of working with Sal Solo, who has used his considerable talent to provide a concert and keynote address for the youth of our Diocese. With over 500 in attendance at our annual High School Youth Convention, Sal was able to bring them the message of Jesus Christ and by using his musical ability to inspire them to follow Christ more closely. A sign of Sal''s positive impact was the fact that both youth and adults were still enthusiastic about his concert when we reconvened the following day. The content of his keynote was appropriate and at the same time reached our audience, which included a spectrum of youth and adults. Overall, the participants gave Sal good reviews. Sal Solo''s presentation contributed greatly to the overall success of the convention. It was a pleasure to see his work and we would certainly recommend his concert for any youth or young adult event.

Rev. Gregory Schlesselmann Director and Jennie M. Korsmo,

Director of Youth Ministry, Diocese of Fargo, ND

We have recently had the pleasure of working with Sal Solo for our annual Senior High rally. His presentation was refreshing and brought the message of Jesus Christ to both the youth and adults in attendance. As the participants left the two day event many remarked that they truly felt the presence of Peace and Love and a real sense of self worth. This was a such a positive impact on both youth and adults. We recomment Sal Solo''s presentation for any youth event.

Lena Clapper, Director of Youth Ministry, Diocese of Gallup, NM

I was very pleased with Sal Solo''s ministry to the young people of the East River Diocese in South Dakota. Sal is very gifted musically and his innovative multi-media concert is a unique experience of worship and celebration. I was likewise impressed with his authentic witness and words of inspiration he shared. Sal was well received by our youth and I recommend this ministry and will continue to pray for his outreach to young people.

Sean Dalton, Director of Youth Ministry, Diocese of Sioux Falls, SD

Sal, it was a great honor for the Diocese of Lubbock to have hosted for our Youth Rally 2001. Your ministry and your presence was greatly appreciated, many of the youth that I have visited were impressed and moved by your faith filled message and music. Bishop Placido Rodriguez C.M.F. also extends to you a word of thanks for the wonderful mass celebration. We here in the Diocese of Lubbock will continue to pray for you and your wonderful ministry.

Paul Florez, Director of Youth Ministry, Catholic Diocese of Lubbock, TX

If we could adequately describe Sal''s giftedness, it would be to say: he speaks of Christ, he bears witness to the Gospel by the way he lives his life. He is, to say the least, a gifted concert musician/singer. In short, he is a find, a gift from God.

Mike McCarthy and Mary Gilfillan, Youth Directors,

Diocese of Rockville Centre, NY

FROM THE PRISONS…

"The men want Sal back, they are so excited that he will come again. One of the fellows told me that if it is time for him to get out of the Unit, he is going to ask Security to keep him so he can attend the Concert. Tell Sal he has made many persons very, very happy and their will be new ones that will be in for a super treat."

The Chaplain, Department of Community Punishment, Little Rock, Arkansas

"When your presentation was over I felt I had witnessed the Holy Spirit's using you like a surgeon's scalpel to cut out the infection, pour in healing oil and sew up the wounds, rather than just poke and prod around in their guilt and shame."

Chaplain of Kinross Correctional Facility, MI

"Two inmates that I know have now started to come to Mass. All remarks I have heard, from staff and inmates, have been positive and appreciative. I recommend the presentation, and Sal Solo and band, wholeheartedly."

Rev. B. O''Brien, Chaplain, HM Prison, Moorland

"I was personally impressed with your organisation and professionalism and the whole tenor of the presentation. It was very moving to see certain men that I know standing for prayer."

Rev. David Caswell, Chaplain, HM Prison, Wolds

 

FROM THE SCHOOLS…

"Sal is a gifted individual. He is a professional musician with information that the students found interesting. I especially appreciated Sal''s use of the parables. He effectively related the parables with topics that the students chose. He brought it together well. The students then created skits to bring the parables to life with the help of Sal''s associate, Art. Sal''s personal story of conversion from the emptiness stardom to the fullness of Christianity held their attention. Sal uses state of the art technology to bring the message of Christ."

Cheryl Heinz, Director of Campus Ministry, Roncalli Junior and Senior High School, Aberdeen, South Dakota

 

"At least two teenagers, both from troubled backgrounds, gave their lives to Jesus that night, and there are several personal witnesses to a renewal/healing of their faith. Your music continues to minister long after the concert is over."

Hilde Bardell, Shetland

 

"I thought by the end of the concert quite a number of the students had been moved to a clearer response to God''s presence in their lives. I had thought that it would primarily appeal to the younger generation but I found the music, the images, and the reflection period very inspiring and uplifting."

Rev. W. Bry Shields, President McGill-Toolen High School, Mobile, AL

 

"We were privileged to have Mr. Sal Solo spend a day with us. On all levels, I was most pleased with the outcome. His rapport with the students was excellent at all levels. I would recommend him enthusiastically to anyone."

S. M. Celine Schumacher, Principal, Notre Dame High School, Iowa

FROM THE KIDS…

Before I saw Sal Solo months ago, I rarely had any belief in getting better from depression and I had serious issues of suicide. After I saw and heard from Sal Solo, I totally was inspired and changed. I now am totally better and it may sound weird to some people, but because of Sal, his speeches and his music, he actually restored my faith and now I'm happy that every thing went for the better!! THANKS SAL SOLO!!!

Before you came, I really didn't go to church or even enjoy youth group, yesterday I signed up for Eucharistic minister training. Ever since CYC our church has had youth mass, which us kids do everything. I think that the reason we started youth mass is because of your ministery while you were here.

Thank you so much for performing at the rally--you are making a difference in the world every time you do! Our God truly is an awesome God, and the rally helped to prepare me spiritually for my confirmation, which is this weekend!

Wow, you are one of the most inspirational speakers i have ever heard. you have no idea how much your speaking and music touched me.

There hasn't been many speakers that keep me paying attention, but you had my attention the whole time. Before this weekend i really wasn't into the whole church thing i just wanted to go do something with my friends. You really helped me understand how much i have to be thankful and praise God for.

I was extremly depressed and after it just felt like a huge weight had been lifted and I just want to thank you for that.

He really made me proud to be a Catholic, and really made me think about what I was doing with my life. After I heard his lectures, God seems a lot MORE important than when he was before I met Sal.

I have to say that SAL SOLO's concerts/speeches really made me feel good about myself and SAL himself gave me that energy to actually turn my life around and if it wasn't for me getting to listen to SAL SOLO, I'd still be a total mess.

when I just arrived at the retreat, I wasn't looking forward to it at all. I thought it was going to be stupid. But I was wrong, I turned out loving it. If there was another chance to go, I definitly would.

Your music is a magic carpet ride that brings me into the presence of JESUS.

When I left I felt changed. I felt like I was with God more than ever in my life that day.

im love ur cd teen mass i cant stop listening to it

I thank God that he sent someone like you to this planet to do his will. I just hope that with GOd's help he will lead us to try to stop World Hunger.

Please, keep doing the work that you do because the world that kids, teenagers, and young adults, such as myself, grow up in today could definately use some more people to show that it is okay to live a life dedicated to God.

At first, my parents forced me to go, and I thought it was going to be boring, but when I went, it was sooo much fun and the music was great!

i mean wow. i thought the convention was going to be really boring. but you were an excellent speaker. you were really inspiring and really get in to what you do.

Before this my realtionship with God wasn't the best.  What you said today really influenced me and rekindled my love of faith.

"Wow, you are one of the most inspirational speakers I have ever heard. You have no idea how much your speaking and music touched me. I will never forget my experience with you at CYC 2002!"

"I have never been moved like that by a performance like I was with yours! The background pictures that you had touched my heart! The things you said were so INSPIRATIONAL!"

"Sal was the coolest; he has changed my life completely!"

"I just wanted to say thank you for saving my life."

"Your music rocks, and I love the message. The talks you gave were incredible. They really helped me understand a lot of my current situations better, and gave me the push I needed to change my focus to where it should be: on our God."

"You made me think about life and I know I want to help people that r less fortunate than me."

"I can relate to so many things you talked about, and just like you did, I''m keeping my head up and looking towards God my light. We had a guest speaker at church a few weeks ago and to be honest, I liked you more than him. Your sermon was much more motivating and endearing. You''re good at what you do and may God Bless you for making the kind of sacrifices you make to motivate and touch the hearts and souls of teenagers, just like you did today with me."

"You know how to touch people''s lives and get into people''s hearts"

"Sal came to the school to make a difference and he did."

"The Thing that caught my attention, the thought of shaking hands with a man who had played in some of the same places as Led Zepplin and Pink Floyd. And While they are some of the greatest bands ever to play in the 70''s or in any decade from my point of view. You are far more important because you had the time to come play for us and shake hands with us.....making each of us feel important. I think many of us needed that, including myself. Thank you"

"The concert made me put my life on hold and think for a moment about God and where He and faith is in my life this present day."

"I didn''t even realise it was on for two hours because it went so fast. "

"I really enjoyed the music and the silent prayer in which we pictured Christ. It was awesome. It made me cry because of how deeply it touched my heart. I was actually able to picture Christ and was able to let go of a lot of the feelings I had inside. I thought that I was drifting away from God because of how busy my life got over the summer. That made me realize that I should always be with Him, even if I am busy. That I should do more in my Church. I have this bad habit of swearing and saying God''s name in vein. After tonight, I have decided never to do either of them again. I will always remember you for what you have taught me tonight. Thank you."

"Your speeches inspired me to be the best person I can be"

"He was so great; I wish I could travel with him wherever he goes :-)"

"Your music told me that once you open the door for Jesus that you can never close it. I opened it and wished that I could love God and Jesus just the same as you."

"I didn''t take all the praying seriously but now I do."

"Don''t lose faith, what you''re doing is brilliant. In fact I''d really like to do something about it and I really believe I will."

"When you asked that anyone that wanted/ needed a prayer to stand & open their hands, I did just that. At first, my hands were close together, but as you continued the prayer, my fingers came apart, my hands were warm, and it felt like something was laying right across them. Although it hasn''t even been an hour, I still can''t seem to take the smile off of my face. I just really want to thank you for sharing your stories and prayer over us. That really meant a lot to not only me, but my friends."

"For once everything that was said to me about God made sense."

"He says he loves what he does, so do I. I think there should be more people like him!"

CHARISMATIC CONFERENCES…

Six years ago we had the privilege to work with Sal Solo, for the first time, through our annual Youth Conference. Since that time he has ministered to adults and youth at our conferences, prayer group gatherings, retreats, etc. Through the years we found him to be a man of integrity as well as one who is easy to work with. Through his conversion, the Lord called him with a "mission" to spread the Good News with music, video and preaching. He is a very gifted man. Many lives are touched by Sal''s ministry no matter what age. He works very hard to bring Jesus to all; especially to the young people.

Mary Fagan, Secretary, Catholic Charismatic Renewal Center for Chicago, IL

 

Sal Solo''s presentation to our youth program was very professionally done. He held their interest from start to finish. Sal''s presentation moved the youth to exhuberant praise and enthusiasm leading into a deep heartfelt contemplation of God''s personal love. I can''t say enough about the event. Sal did an absolutely wonderful job, and I highly recommend him for any youth group.

Barbara Lambert, Southern California Renewal Conference

Hear from other youth leaders and people who have had Sal minister at their event, conference, or youth rally, as well as the teens themselves.

 

**Click here for a special Pro-Life Rally article with Sal Solo**

What they say about SAL SOLO...