Introducing the New Worship Guide

Greetings! I’m happy to introduce myself as the new Network Guide for the Worship blog. I’m excited to share thoughts and insights, hear your input and, I hope, ignite some discussion on lots of different topics.

A little about me: I grew up in southern Minnesota, a member of Hollandale CRC. I opted not to attend Dordt College (unlike all my siblings) and instead went to the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, MN (yes, a Catholic school) so that I could participate in Air Force ROTC.  I served as an Air Force officer for 6 years, during which I lived in a few different locales around the country.  My last station was in Colorado Springs, CO and we’ve remained here since.  My wife, four boys, and I are members of Cragmor CRC, where I have been active in worship and church leadership (not always as much as I’d like, but sometimes more).

I consider myself a sort of cross-generational CRC member.  I grew up singing hymns from a physical hymnal (the “Blue” Psalter, mind you), with no visual aids, and no instruments aside from organ and piano.  In fact, I think it was somewhat groundbreaking when I played my harmonica during a service as a high-schooler.  Since moving away, though, almost every service I’ve been in has involved modern songs and lyrics shown on a projection screen.  I have a great appreciation for both styles.  I love the old hymns and contemporary worship songs.  So I like to think I can relate well to those who prefer one to the other, and hope that comes through in my blog.

I’d like to extend special thanks to Kevin Soodsma, my predecessor, who put in many hours over the last year to make this blog a great resource for worship.  If you could, please take a moment to thank him for his service, and let him know you appreciate all he's done.

Throughout this next year my prayer for this blog is that God would grant me wisdom and perseverance, that I will be enriched through this experience, and that others will be blessed by what they read and share.

Thank you for your support and participation.