Mike becomes worship coordinator

Starting in July 2009, Mike Byde will step up to the role of worship coordinator for Sunday worship bands. He will be responsible for the quality of the music that underpins our worship, will coordinate musicians and will be involved in the Wharfedale Worship Workshop (W3) training and development days.

Mike, who completed the Leadership School: Foundations course last summer, says "Worship is so fundamental to who we are as individuals and as a community. I'm really looking forward to working with such a talented and committed team. This doesn't mean I will be playing every week - quite the contrary - I want to include and draw out the talents of as many musicians as possible".

Nik Gee retains overall responsibility for worship at Wharfedale Vineyard, including housegroup worship, supporting the kids' worship team, and the songwriters' courses, and will continue to lead worship on many occasions. Says Nik, "I think it's great that Mike is taking on this role. I've always been really impressed with his ability for musical direction and his heart for worshipping God. I think Mike will be instrumental (!) in us continuing to grow both the heart and skills of our worship team".

David Flowers reminds us, "Worship is one of our central values and distinctives in the Vineyard. Whilst it is more than just the music we play on a Sunday, for many people that is one of the most accessible ways to praise God and establish intimacy with Him. Nik has done a great job over the last 2 1/2 years as we have gone through much change. Whilst he is given some more time to concentrate on a very demanding pastoral workload, Mike's appointment (which is unpaid) provides an opportunity for some fresh ways of continuing to develop and enhance this area of our ministry. I am very grateful to them both for the way they share their musical gifts so freely."

If you would like to be part of one of the worship bands at Wharfedale Vineyard, please get in touch with Mike.

Nik Gee, 21/06/2009