Worship Leader Dies of Cancer

David Morris also wrote books about worship
Worship artist David Morris, known for leading worship at national prayer and evangelism conferences, died May 13 after battling cancer. A songwriter and author of two books, Morris was also on staff at Manna Church, a 2,000-member charismatic congregation in Fayetteville, N.C. He was 43.

Diagnosed with cancer in December, Morris was immediately taken to a Christian-owned alternative cancer treatment center in Los Angeles. Christians throughout the country, linked by e-mail updates, prayed for Morris during his illness and sent donations to defray medical costs.

“There has been unceasing prayer, unwavering faith and constant love and support. Yet he is gone. I believe with all my heart that God was in need of him,” said his wife, Laurie, who often sang or played the flute when Morris led worship events. Morris left behind four children.

Besides writing A Lifestyle of Worship (Renew, 1998) and Called to Radical Devotion (Charisma House, 2001), Morris also recorded His Word, a praise and worship album on the Integrity label. Just a few months before he learned he had cancer, he and his wife recorded Pursuing the Presence, an instrumental album.

Morris led worship at revival conferences in several U.S. cities including New York, Salt Lake City and New Orleans. “God used the anointing on David’s life to literally break open the heavens over these areas,” said Cindy Jacobs, president of Colorado-based Generals of Intercession.