In Loving Memory of Kieran Metcalfe: A Creative Spirit, A Cherished Friend, A Lasting Legacy
It is with the deepest sadness that we share the heartbreaking news that our beloved friend and colleague, Kieran Metcalfe, passed away on Tuesday after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. Kieran was not only a gifted creative, a pioneering thinker, and an integral part of our team — he was also a deeply kind, humble, and generous soul whose presence left a lasting impression on everyone privileged to work alongside him.
Kieran’s journey with us began in the late 2000s, when he joined the fledgling Resound Worship group as a songwriter. Even in those early days, it was clear that he brought with him something special — a quiet brilliance, a heart for worship, and a talent for crafting lyrics and melodies that resonated deeply. Several of his songs found a home with us, each one a testament to his thoughtful faith and artistic voice.
But Kieran’s contributions extended far beyond songwriting. As he moved into freelance graphic and web design, he became instrumental in shaping the digital presence of both Resound and Jubilate. He didn’t just build websites — he built experiences that connected communities, supported worship leaders, and carried our mission into new spaces. His work laid the foundation for how we reach and serve others today.
In recent years, Kieran brought the Song & Hymn Writers Foundation into the digital age, developing a much-needed rights and royalties management system that streamlined and strengthened our operations. Then, in a landmark move that reflected both his technical expertise and visionary spirit, he created Songclub, the collaborative songwriting platform that now hosts our vibrant 12 Song Challenge community. It has become a home for creativity, encouragement, and spiritual growth — a living expression of Kieran’s heart for empowering others through technology and connection.
As Kieran moved from freelance to becoming a full-time, in-house developer with the foundation, he quickly became a much-loved and respected member of our staff. His depth of insight, his quiet humor, and his unwavering dedication made him more than a colleague — he became family. For nearly two decades, whether as a contractor, a creator, or a teammate, Kieran was at the very heart of everything we did. His fingerprints are everywhere, not just in the code or design, but in the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and grace that defines our work today.
There was still so much more we dreamed of building with him — new tools, new challenges, new songs. And while the weight of this loss is heavy, we are deeply grateful for the part of the journey we were able to share. Kieran gave so much of himself to this community — his time, his talent, his heart — and in doing so, he helped shape something enduring.
As we move forward, we will do so with Kieran’s legacy in our hands and his vision in our hearts. We will continue to build on the foundations he helped lay, carrying forward the work that meant so much to him, and to all of us. In every song sung, in every connection made through the platforms he created, his presence will continue to inspire and uplift.
To Kieran’s family and loved ones, we offer our deepest and most heartfelt condolences. Please know that you are held in our prayers and surrounded by a community who shares in your grief and honors Kieran’s remarkable life. His impact was profound, and his memory will live on in every corner of our work.
Rest in peace, Kieran. Thank you for everything. You will be missed more than words can say, and your light will continue to shine through the music, the tools, and the people you helped bring together.