However, Anderson wasn’t the group’s only surprise guest throughout the years. According to John Cole, one of the most legendary appearances was not a notable singer. It was not an industry name like musicians Nick Bruno, Mark Fain, or Kelly Back – although they all did accompany GloryWay as part of a live band at the Gospel Legends Reunion. The most memorable appearance was a guest of a different kind. I can only imagine the reaction of the crowd when this guest hit the stage. It was a day that started like many others. The group set up, did a sound check and launched into their concert. During their performance, a bat decided to join them on stage for a downright legendary experience … yes, a bat.
Some of their most moving times have come when the group went in to minister, and, in doing so, was blessed beyond measure. One such time was when they ministered at the Grafton Correctional Institution in Grafton, Ohio. The group sang twice that day at the facility, the first being a worship service for just the inmates and the second being a worship service that included friends and family of the inmates. With their unique style and variety of music that ranges from traditional Southern gospel to a more contemporary sound, they were able to minister to those in desperate need of knowing that Jesus still cared. Amidst shouts of praise and worship, GloryWay saw firsthand what God could do with a willing heart. “What a humbling experience to see these folks so moved by the power of the Spirit and to experience this worship with them,” Cole – who also preached for both services – said. “So many of the inmates told us how much they were blessed by us being there with them. However, I’m not sure that we didn’t receive the bigger blessing from them. Both services were a couple of the best services we have had anywhere.” Whether sharing music in a correctional facility or a convention, GloryWay has experienced growing success in Southern gospel music. In 2016, the group was the showcase winner of the American Gospel Celebration, hosted by John Hagee. Then, in 2017, the group was nominated for its first Diamond Award.
“It flew around the sanctuary for a good five to 10 minutes before the trustees got it shewed into the foyer,” Cole said. Once they relegated it into the foyer, he recalled how they battled it for another five to 10 minutes before finally getting it out the door. “Our bass singer, Justin Sayger, was so scared of it that he cowered down behind me right there on stage,” Cole said. “It was quite the sight all the way around.” And to commemorate the experience, the group broke into the old classic, “I’ll Fly Away.” From bedlam to precious memories, no matter the situation, GloryWay Quartet has not forgotten its mission.
Since that time, GloryWay has appeared on the stage at the Dollywood Harvest Festival, Paul Heil’s Gospel Greats, and the Diamond Awards, winning the Sunrise Quartet of the Year in 2018. They have also recently signed an agreement with Matt Felts of Gateway Management.