In February, we reported that MercyMe’s keyboardist Jim Bryson and drummer Robbie Shaffer welcomed new members of their famliy into the world. On March 29th, lead singer Bart MIllard became a proud papa for the third time when son Charlie was born.

Looking after a newborn sure is tiring!

Rumour has it that Bart is gloating over the fact that he beat Jeremy Camp in the spring baby sweepstakes but that has yet to be confirmed. What is confirmed is that all the happy dads are scheduled to appear at Paramount Canada’s Wonderland together with Kutless, Thousand Foot Krutch and Pillar in Ontario on June 17th for the annual Summer Celebration. Check out the YMZ Concert Listings for more details.

A few days after the birth of Charlie, Millard won his first GMA Music (Dove) Award as a solo act, and his tenth overall, in the Inspirational Recorded Album of the Year category for the widely-praised project, Hymned (tying with Amy Grant’s Rock of Ages… Hymns & Faith). Millard has previously won nine Dove Awards with MercyMe, including Group of the Year (2004), Song of the Year (2002, 2004), Artist of the Year (2004) Songwriter of the Year (2002) and more.

Millard’s MercyMe bandmate Mike Scheuchzher accepted the award on his behalf. Following the show, however, Millard commented, “Wow! I am not sure what to say! This project is so very dear to my heart, and it is a huge honour to have it recognized in any way, shape or size. I just want to get back in the studio and start volume two! I heard it was a tie with Amy Grant. I called Amy and challenged her to an arm wrestling contest to determine an all out winner. She has not called me back yet. Between you and me, pound for pound, I think I can take her. So Amy if you read this… you know where to find me… 2006 Inspirational Showdown! Can we get this on Pay-Per-View?”

MercyMe’s new album Coming Up To Breathe will be available at Canadian Christian retailers next Tuesday but you will be able to hear audio clips of the entire album on HearItFirst.ca tomorrow!