FEBRUARY 26 – MARCH 2, 2025 – Members of the Eastern Territory Staff Songsters (ETSS) boarded flights from various locations, heading to Lexington, KY, for a long weekend of ministry in Ohio and Kentucky. After a good night’s rest, the group began their activities.
Thursday started with a full day of rehearsals at the Lexington, KY Corps. New members Camilo Alvarez, Joseph Abdelwaly, and Captain Laura Gonzalez were welcomed. Special mention goes to Jelani Weekes (Assistant DMD in the Neosa Division), B/M Derek Lance, and Jeff Barrington (THQ Music Dept.) for filling in on drums and in the bass section. The songsters were well looked after by the soldiers and officers of the corps, including an espresso coffee station!
Friday, the Songsters headed to Asbury University, participating in the morning chapel service by presenting preliminary items and leading worship with “Holy Forever” and “I Speak Jesus.” The student body joined in worship, creating a joyful atmosphere. After lunch, more rehearsals took place in the Music Department’s choir room. The SASF center, run by Majors Paul and Alma Cain, hosted the Songsters for dinner before the evening concert at the recently renovated Jameson Recital Hall.
The evening concert featured songs such as “There is a Joy” (Chris Brindley), “Your God Will Come” (Arr. Cliff Duren), “Great God, Great Praise” (Arr. Bradley Knight), “Who But the Lord” (Craig Courtney), and “Living Water” (Gavin Whitehouse). Michelle Fairman shared her testimony, and Lt. Colonel Margaret Davis delivered a devotional message. The concert concluded with “The Lord is Gracious” (Darren Bartlett), sung around the Recital Hall.
The ETSS traveled to Cincinnati on Saturday, starting with a concert at the Cincinnati ARC. Captain Ray Valdez shared his testimony, highlighting his journey of redemption. The Songsters enjoyed fellowship over lunch with the ARC attendees.
In the evening, the Songsters performed at the Cincinnati Center Hill Corps to a full house. The energy and passion of the group created a special worship experience for everyone present.
The final day of the weekend saw the ETSS leading worship at the Lexington Corps. The chapel was full, and the Spirit of the Lord was evident throughout the service. Selections included “Take My Life” (Katy Richardson) and “And Can It Be” (Dan Forrest), providing a perfect conclusion to a wonderful weekend of ministry.
