Biography : Mickeal McCool

Mickeal’s purpose in life and ministry is embodied by a passion to lead people in worship and a call to bring them closer to God’s throne. While completing a Bachelor of Arts degree in music from the University of California, Irvine, he toured extensively with several choirs, and was a featured soloist for award-winning choirs both locally and internationally. Mickeal has served full-time in music ministry since 1990, where team building and ministry development remain his key focuses. Mickeal values people over product. “Excellence is important in bringing God glory and cannot be overlooked; however, Jesus is in the business of building people and that remains my focus. The entire point of worship leading is to create a path whereby people can connect with Jesus,” says Mickeal.

Mickeal has experienced the pain and challenges of recovery and restoration on his journey in ministry. There is a heartfelt and spirit-filled component to his leadership that can only be understood through the lens of brokenness. Grace abounds in his life as he continues to give back to those who face the daily challenges that can so easily leave us without hope. Mickeal has served as Chairman of the Board of the Recovery Assistants Foundation (www.recoveryassistants.org).

Mickeal is the former director of the University of California Gospel Choir, and has led worship at various conferences including the Conservative Baptist Men’s Association, National Association of Christian Business Administrators, and camps at Forest Home Christian Conference Center. His songs have been featured on Worship Leader Magazine’s SongDiscovery, and Purpose Driven’s SongSeeker. He has recorded in sessions for movies, television, theme parks, and radio, including a project for Celine Dion. In addition, he was selected as the winning finalist at the 2005 Integrity Music’s Songwriters Retreat, which resulted in his song, “Glory, Hallelujah” being published by Integrity Music. His first CD, entitled “Sacred Heart” is an inspiring blend of contemporary and traditional music with a touch of gospel, featuring 14 songs, including two foreign language bonus tracks (Spanish/French).His latest CD, entitled "Surrender" released August 1, 2010, includes three hymns arranged with new choruses making them accessible to congregations, as well as new songs that are transparent, and inspiring, reflecting on Mickeal's journey through a season of recovery and restoration.

Other credits include Little Mermaid DVD re-release (Disney), “Eternity Sings” (Independent), “Any Given Day” (BEC Records) and “We Adore Thee” (Independent).

Mickeal currently serves as the Worship Arts Director at Crossroads Community Cathedral in East Hartford, Connecticut. He is married to Leigh-Ann and they have three beautiful and talented daughters, Megan, Madison, and Morgan.