The 40th Annual Dove Awards were handed out last Thursday, April 23. Here are a few photos from the event, which honored the best in Christian and gospel music:

Steven Curtis Chapman was named Artist of the Year for the 7th time in his career, as well Songwriter of the Year. Chapman performed his hit song, “Cinderella,” with his sons Will and Caleb, and after a moving speech from both he and his wife MaryBeth, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.

Natalie Grant encouraged young girls to follow their dreams in her acceptance of her Dove Award for Female Vocalist of the Year, the fourth straight year she has been the recipient of that honor. Grant has become America’s “big sister” as the host of The Revolve Tour, an event that brings together young girls for a weekend of music, encouragement, and teaching aimed directly at them.
Casting Crowns has been crowned Group of the Year five straight years. Christmas Album and Short Form Videos made them triple winners at this year’s Doves.
TobyMac joins new Christian music duo Chynna-Vaughan to present Artist of the Year at Dove Awards. Earlier, TobyMac received his own Dove for Long Form Video.
Grammy-winning sister duo Mary Mary (Tina and Erica Campbell); brought a joyous opening to the Dove Awards with a rousing performance of “Get Up,” which later won a Dove Award for Urban Recorded Song. Mary Mary took home a Grammy in February for Best Gospel Performance for the song.
Paying tribute to Dottie Rambo brought musical luminaries together for a moving performance of the Hall of Fame singer-songwriter’s classic songs. From left to right: Kim Hopper; Brian Free & Assurance; Sandi Patty; Larnelle Harris; Jason Crab; Ronnie Milsap, Reba Rambo McGuire, Dony McGuire and Destiny McGuire. Dottie Rambo was killed May 11, 2008 after her tour bus ran off a Missouri highway.