Be In Tune with Young Adults

All who are interested in, wondering about, or intrigued by music ministry for young adults are invited to attend In Tune, April 15-16, at Bethany Seminary in Richmond, Indiana. Leading musicians, both Brethren and ecumenical, will guide an exploration of musical styles that are speaking to a new generation. The event is sponsored by Bethany’s Institute for Ministry with Youth and Young Adults.

“All churches care about music, and all smart churches care about reaching young adults,” says Russell Haitch, professor of Christian education and director of the institute at Bethany. “We’ve combined both concerns into an event where people can listen to experts, sing together, and discuss why and how we do music ministry.”

Musicians leading the sessions for In Tune also find their vocation in teaching, directing, composing, and writing:

• Michaela Alphonse – A Global Missions volunteer, Michaela coordinates theological training and student scholarships for Mission Evangelique des Eglises des Freres D’ Haiti (Church of the Brethren in Haiti). She loves to sing, dance, and work with children, and is a licensed minister of the Miami First Church of the Brethren.

• Leah J. Hileman – The composer of nearly 300 Christian songs, Leah J. is the minister of music at Harrisburg First Church of the Brethren. She has recorded six albums and is currently completing a seventh, of Christian pop music. Leah J. is also a member of the Bittersweet Gospel Band.

• Chris Monaghan – Chris is the senior pastor of Gateway Church in Richmond, Indiana, which seeks to transform the community through worship, teaching, and humanitarian acts. He has a master of theological studies in messianic Judaism and is a songwriter, recording artist, and author on the art of worship.

• Adam M. L. Tice – Many recent hymnals and choral arrangements contain Adam’s hymns, which he began writing in seminary. In 2004 he was named a Lovelace Scholar by the Hymn Society of the United States and Canada, and he served three years on the Society’s Executive Committee. Adam also served as associate pastor of Hyattsville (Maryland) Mennonite Church.

• Tim Timmons – Tim’s music and ministry are shaped by a cancer diagnosis fourteen years ago that gave him five years to live. Whether he’s composing and performing for a national audience or worshiping with others, his desire is to open up a conversation about living an abundant and joyful life in Christ. When not touring, he gathers with family and friends for Motel Church, a makeshift congregation open to all who are seeking this life and which has been life changing for him.

After short talks from each guest musician, attendees will have the chance to ask questions and raise points for conversation. Small groups will explore topics on how and why we do music ministry, and the musicians will participate in a panel and discussion time. Worship will also feature contributions from these leaders.

Registration is open, and details are available about the musicians, schedule, and housing. A block of rooms is being held until March 15, and lodging with host families is also an option. The registration fee of $30 includes all program sessions, Friday dinner, and Saturday lunch. Contact 765-983-1809 or houffre@bethanyseminary.edu for more information.