A new weekly sales-based Christian and gospel album chart has been launched in the United Kingdom in response to strong growth of the category. Updated every Monday, the chart reflects sales of physical and digital music products.

The Official Christian & Gospel Albums Chart, compiled by the Official Charts Company and launched in partnership with Christian charity Compassion UK, released its first Top 20 list March 11. The album at the top spot was Hillsong United's Zion (Hillsong Music/Capitol Christian Distribution), followed by Bethel Music's Without Words (Kingsway/Capitol) and Matt Redman's 10,000 Reasons (sixstepsrecords/Capitol).

"This is a defining moment and changes the landscape for Christian and gospel music in the U.K.," said Jonathan Brown, managing director of Integrity Music. "Christian music has always been a part of society in bringing hope and encouragement. With the development of this new chart, it will bring significant profile to this growing genre."

Compassion UK CEO Ian Hamilton added: "We are thrilled to be partnering with the launch of the Official Christian & Gospel Albums Chart. We are honored to have many ambassadors for our ministry among Christian music artists in the U.K. as we work to bring worship and justice together."

The chart is broadcast every week on the U.K. Christian radio stations Premier Radio and UCB (United Christian Broadcasters). Visit www.officialcharts.com for more information.

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