The album that came from that experience is “Sing of Mary,” Gretchen’s second album. It was nominated for “Praise and Worship Album of the Year” by the United Catholic Music and Video Association.

”Sing of Mary” is a beautiful collection of eleven favorite Marian songs. It takes the listener on a peaceful journey of music written in devotion to Mary. Some songs are centuries old; some are from the present day. The styles are varied, ranging from pop to classical to Gregorian chant.

The album begins with Bob Hurd’s classic “Be It Done Unto Me,” a song about Mary’s yes to God. The introspective “Breath of Heaven (Mary’s Song),” written by Amy Grant and Chris Eaton, is Mary’s prayer for God to give her strength to handle whatever may come as she surrenders to His will. And “Sweet Mary” is a tender rendition of the Hail Mary prayer.

Guitars, congas, and guest vocalist Michael Miller comprise the musical setting for “Hail Mary, Gentle Woman.” This recording of the well-known Marian song features a driving beat and joyful sound. The traditional Irish melody “I Sing a Maid” has been given a very peaceful, meditational mood in this unique interpretation, telling of the life of Mary.

Franz Schubert’s “Ave Maria” is presented here with piano and vocal; it is simple and beautiful, and it allows Gretchen to use her training in classical music. “Immaculate Mary” is offered with guitars and mandolin, creating a very pleasant sound. The album’s title track “Sing of Mary,” begins a capella. An addition of instrumentation follows, including congas, flute, and piccolo.

”Mother Mary” is a contemporary original by husband and wife team Joe and Athena Will. It has a modern flavor in its music and vocals, adding to the wonderful variety of the album. Another traditional favorite, “Hail, Holy Queen,” is sung with conviction amidst flute, organ, and piano.

The album concludes with the prayerful Gregorian chant version of the “Ave Maria.” Gretchen’s recording of this song was used in the EWTN documentary tour of the Holy Land, “Path of the Messiah.”