Behold Mary’s Fiat: A Spotlight on Catholic Artist Colleen McKenna and Her Song “Behold You”

Music as a Calling: A Songbird Takes Flight

For Catholic singer-songwriter Colleen McKenna, music is more than a talent—it’s a calling from God. A self-proclaimed “little songbird,” Colleen’s love for music began early. “I got my first guitar when I was nine and started writing songs about my life and faith soon after,” she shares. Encouraged by her supportive family, she honed her craft, blending her love for storytelling with a deep devotion to her Catholic faith.

Today, Colleen shares her gifts with the world, offering songs that not only inspire but also bring listeners closer to Christ. Her latest release, “Behold You,” has found a home on the Tabella, connecting users with a beautiful meditation on Mary’s “yes” to God.

Trusting God’s Plan: The Leap to Nashville

Pursuing a music career often requires leaps of faith, and Colleen’s journey is no exception. At just 18, she left her home to move to Nashville. “It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but also the best decision I could have made,” she reflects.

Despite the uncertainty, she leaned on God for guidance. “Praying big prayers and asking God to send me where I needed to be changed the game for me,” she explains. “It’s the biggest leap of faith I’ve taken yet, but the Lord has caught me in every way.”

Her courage and trust in God’s providence have paid off, allowing her to grow not only as an artist but also in her relationship with the Lord.

Faith and Music: A Delicate Balance

As a Christian artist, Colleen understands the challenges of being bold in her faith within the music industry. *“I’ve been told more than once that if I wanted a career, I’d have to choose—Country Music or Christian Music,”* she says. But she has found a unique way to blend both.

“I resonate with the storytelling in country music, but as a Christian, music is also one of the ways I love to pray,”* Colleen explains. Her artistry reflects this duality, as she writes about love, heartbreak, healing, and faith. Recently, she has found a balance between these worlds, using the storytelling she grew up with to point back to *“the greatest story of all—the story of Jesus Christ.”

The Story Behind “Behold You”

Colleen’s latest release, “Behold You,” is a contemplative piece inspired by the Blessed Virgin Mary’s “fiat”—her wholehearted yes to God’s plan. “I wanted to write a song about what it would be like to stand in Mary’s shoes,” Colleen shares.

The lyrics challenge listeners to reflect on their own openness to God’s will. “Would I say yes if Jesus knocked on the door of my heart? Could I give up my plans or comfort if He asked me to?” she asks. Mary’s fiat wasn’t just a one-time decision; it was a lifetime of trust and surrender.

Colleen’s hope is that the song will help prepare hearts for Christmas by contemplating Mary’s example of faith and courage. “When Mary stared into the face of her Savior for the first time, she knew it was worth it,” she reflects.

A Prayer for Listeners

Colleen’s desire for “Behold You” is simple yet profound: “My prayer is that the Lord can use this song to bring many hearts to Himself through His mother Mary and her story.” She hopes that Mary’s yes will inspire listeners to embrace their own callings, especially during the Advent season.

“As we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ, may Mary’s fiat encourage us to say yes to the Lord in whatever He is asking of us,” she shares.

Listen to “Behold You” on Tabella

We are thrilled to share Colleen McKenna’s beautiful song “Behold You” on the Tabella App. Whether you’re seeking a moment of prayerful reflection or inspiration for your Advent journey, this song offers a powerful reminder of the courage it takes to follow God’s call—and the joy that comes when we do.

Tune in now on Tabella and let Mary’s story lead you closer to Jesus this Advent season.