Taking place in the fall for the first time, the 44th Annual Gospel Music Association (GMA) Dove Awards will be held Oct. 15 at Allen Arena on the campus of Nashville's historic Lipscomb University, and will be nationally televised on GMC TV. In another first, GMA has added a feature film category to the awards in response to the rise of inspirational films.

In a letter sent to association members just before Christmas, GMA Executive Director Jackie Patillo wrote that the organization was moving the Dove Awards back to Nashville after a two-year run in Atlanta, and switching its marquee event from April to October.

The "bold move from spring to fall was an intentional shift" by the association to make this year's event "an unforgettable celebration of the message and artistry that defines the gospel/Christian genre leading into the industry's most significant retail sales season," GMA said.

"This year we will not only pay tribute to the music and its makers, but we will shine a light on those who have experienced the music as a lifeline," Patillo said.

GMA has partnered with The Dove Foundation, known for its Dove Seal of approval for filmed entertainment, to develop the new film category and to ensure the creditability of this award.

"I am delighted that such a highly respected organization as the GMA is recognizing Christian films," said Dick Rolfe, The Dove Foundation's co-founder and CEO. "GMA has been a big part of my life ever since my years in Christian radio and television."

Food for the Hungry, which provides emergency relief and long-term development programs to help the world's poor and needy, is this year's Dove Awards ministry partner.

Dove nominees are scheduled to be announced Aug. 22. The event's hosts and performers, and Dove-related events will be announced in the coming months.

Click here for more information on the Dove Awards.

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