The 40th Annual Gospel Music Dove Awards happened last night at Nashville’s legendary Grand Ole Opry, was broadcast live on Atlanta’s Gospel Music Channel, and included quite a number of winners with Georgia connections.

Tops on that particular list was McDonough Christian rockers Casting Crowns (above) — who won Group of the Year for the fifth year in a row; Christmas Album of the Year (“Peace On Earth”); and Short Form Music Video of the Year (“Slow Fade”).

Chris Tomlin’s (above) “Hello Love” was named Praise & Worship Album of the Year. Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year went to Third Day and that same prize-winning “Revelation” disc picked up Recorded Music Packaging of the Year. And the Blind Boys of Alabama — which includes Atlanta drummer Ricky McKinnie — added Traditional Gospel Album of the Year (“Down in New Orleans”) to its haul of awards this year.

Did you catch the Doves last night – and if so, what were you most impressed with and/or surprised by? (And please  see the rest of our gallery from the show).