nderstanding of and desire for the presence of God, rather than learning how to put on a good ‘time of worship’. So in terms of my involvement with the church, I hope I am much more involved all round than I ever was before. Worshipping God by serving wherever it’s needed, whether that involves playing my instrument or not playing it, or doing something totally different.Because of the Academy of Worship, I was challenged to become more participatory in the church meetings. Whether that was sharing a scripture, word of encouragement or praying I was encouraged to come ready to share.
The unique thing about the program is that David recognizes your gifts and skills and he trains you in those areas, but also in areas of your weakness. David emphasises excellence. It is quite trendy these days to be a part of a worship team and it seems there are many people who may have the heart behind it, but not the skill. David encourages you to sharpen your skills and to play or sing with excellence.
Currently, I work at a University in the Advancement Department. I am very involved in a new work my husband Dan and I are part of that was started just over a year now. We lead the worship on Sundays and also a Bible Study during the week.
Yes. At this time since we are smaller in numbers we usually just have two guitars and a keyboard on Sundays. However, once we move into a larger facility we will be leading a larger team of musicians.
David speaks a lot of training the younger. That is something that has stuck with me. It is crucial that we get young people involved in the church and not push them to the side because they are younger. But see the gift in them and help them grow and mature in that gifting.
I’ve been very involved in a number of congregations since being on the School. I’ve led worship for youth and for main meetings. I’ve also been a part of several National Bible Weeks (US and UK).
The area I was most challenged in while on the School was in the area of boldness. I now know that I have an authority to speak up because I am a part of a body where every member has equal standing. The other thing that revolutionized my thinking was when I grasped the concept that leading worship was just worshipping my God in front of a group of people. I used to think there was a pressure to perform or make something happen, but that’s not my job!
I am currently administrating and teaching on the Living Light School of Worship, based in Kenosha, Wisconsin, USA
Student between September 2001 -2002
