"Joy!" she says with a smile when asked what she would most like people to experience when listening to her music. Purity of mind, heart and purpose sum-up singer/songwriter Sarah Bauer. This youthful and energetic 23-year-old is one of the freshest voices in Christian music, though sharing her gift of song is no new quest for Sarah. A natural performer, Sarah began singing and performing at a young age. Since high school she has explored her gift in venues such as musical theatre, university choirs and a local jazz band. Singing has always been Sarah's dream and passion. As Sarah's faith grew, she realized a higher calling to sing. She credits much of her developing career to the loving support of her family, friends and faith community in Indiana. This support, in addition to her courageous faith, allowed Sarah to pursue her calling. Sarah began chasing her dreams professionally during her last year of college when she recorded her debut album, Delighting in Dreams (Nov. 2003). The title of the album not only encompasses the dream she has chosen to follow, but also has become the focus of her newly founded ministry, Dare to Dream. As Sarah delights in living out her dream, she encourages others to trust God enough to live out their dreams as well. Inspired by Psalm 37:4, Dare to Dream Ministry challenges young people to dream big and believe in the great plan God has for their lives, trusting that their dreams are His. Incorporated within her ministry, Sarah not only shares this message in song; as a gifted storyteller she shares her personal experiences within concerts and talks touching on a variety of subjects pertaining to the faith, such as chastity and God's call to holiness. "He wants to give us joy by delighting in Him," Sarah says. "One of the most pivotal moments in my journey was realizing that God wants me to be happy, finding my joy in His plan for my life. The dreams that are planted in our hearts are from Him and are meant to reveal who He is in each of us." The inspiration and creativity for her ministry is deeply rooted in the sacraments of her Catholic faith. Her friendship with Christ is real and inspiring. It makes one long to seek His love more. Her down-to-earth personality makes everyone Sarah comes into contact with feel welcome, accepted and loved. She meets people where they are and extends her friendship to all. Her pure love for others stems from her deep affection for our Eucharistic Lord. In a world where so much is false, Sarah's authenticity is refreshing. Listening to Sarah in concert it is evident that she genuinely lives her faith on a daily basis. Lead Me Home, her newly released album (Aug. 2005) displays the growth of this dynamic performer. The eleven original songs on this sophomore release reveal more of this aspiring singer/songwriter's artistry than ever before. Produced by Mike Ofca at Innovation Studios in Steubenville, OH, the vocal performance is strong and heartfelt throughout. It bursts into energy with "Cause to Laugh," a song that expresses the joy found when following God's will for our lives. Using biblical references such as the story of Abraham and Sarah and the Annunciation, Sarah highlights the importance of God's promise in a memorable way. This song sets the tone of this uplifting and spirited sophomore CD. Sarah shines in the catchy pop songs like "Only You" and the full out rock grooves of "Mary's God My Back," a high energy song about Mary and the protection she gives us as her children. The title track is a poignant reflection of longing for "something more" just as Dorothy Gale in The Wizard of Oz. The strong and passionate voice on this daring album reflects the depths of a soul that is rooted in love and joy. Singing, "the dreams that you dare to dream really do come true, I empty my pockets, hand you my plans and delight in Your truth - I entrust my plans to You will see me through," Sarah reminds us that our dreams are God's dreams as she challenges her listeners, young and old, to put their trust in God.