Donald Goodhall is interested in the intersection of art and faith, and is passionate about cultivating creative contexts in which theology can be fruitfully explored. He was raised in Hamilton, a city with a vibrant music scene that helped him cultivate a passion for making music. In time, this passion was coupled with an emerging love for the Church and led Donald to significant involvement in worship leadership within Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Following a brief career in Civil Engineering, Donald took up a pastoral role at his local church and served there for 16 years, beginning in the area of student and young adult ministry, before moving into a broad leadership role that included worship, the arts, and communication. This tenure was temporarily interrupted when Donald and his wife, Janaya, responded to a growing call to theological study. With two children in tow, Donald and Janaya moved to Vancouver, Canada in 2012 to begin a Master of Arts in Theology at Regent College. They returned to Hamilton at the close of 2013 and Donald resumed his responsibilities within the local church, as well as continuing his involvement in numerous worship initiatives.
In late 2018, Donald took up a position with Venn Foundation as Director of the Residential Fellowship. He and Janaya, along with their four children, Neeve, Indie, Beckett, and Arrow, now call Auckland home.
I once wrote a song that surprised me. I’d never composed something like it before. The lyrics were dark, confessional, soundings of grief. Layers of foreboding minor chords grounded the aching melody.
First things, take it off shuffle. Please! This playlist is one to be played through in order (and best with a three-second crossfade).
Venn’s Residential Fellowship Director, worship leader, and musician, Donald Goodhall, has prepared a playlist of hymns and songs to help guide us through these days of the Holy Triduum. You’ll find the full playlist on Spotify. Search for Venn Foundation, Songs and Hymns for Easter or follow this link.