Psalm 96:1-2a “Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, praise His name…” NIV
Several years ago, some of the Mt. Zion congregation sought Praise music as a part of the worship experience. Shannon Trostle with her love of singing and playing the guitar responded by organizing singers who wanted to try new songs. Thus the Praise Team was born. They sang at various events, banquets and services taking their ministry of music around the area. The participants enjoyed singing and their audiences loved having them participate in their events. However, after Shannon’s departure in 2016, there was concern that perhaps the Praise Team would stop singing. “With the encouragement of a few people, specifically Pastor Matt, I took over as organizer,” says Trish Prosser (MZ), fully acknowledging she “doesn’t do this alone”. Make no mistake though, Trish is at the helm scheduling practices, picking the songs and keeping the group on track. Trish adds, “I would like to thank Shannon Trostle for starting this ministry and thank the members (of the group) for continuing it.”
Presently, Eli Plant (B and MZ) provides most of the accompaniment for the group by playing the piano. Eli says, “I have a love of music and a talent for playing the piano. The Praise Team has allowed me to share my talents with others.” His accompaniment adds so much to the group. Eli’s favorite Bible passage is Numbers 20 because “it reminds me of how God provides for our needs”. This seems so appropriate because the Praise Team needed some instrumental help and Eli gladly responded to the call. His favorite songs are “We Believe” and “Our God” because they are “fun to play”.
We believe in God the Father; we believe in Jesus Christ; We believe in the Holy Spirit and He’s given us new life. We believe in the crucifixion; we believe that He conquered death. We believe in the resurrection, and He’s coming back again, we believe. (Newsboys)
Each of the members has their favorite songs. For Jessi Wilson (MZ), hers include “Better than a Hallelujah”. It speaks to her like most songs don’t. Trish’s favorite songs are “Amazing Grace My Chains Are Gone” and “Above All”, both of which are favorites of many people. Jake Wilson (MZ) particularly likes “10,000 Reasons”, but admits to periodically not being able to sing it through because of the powerful words of the song. Each member has his favorite songs but all songs are important because of how they touch the individuals to whom they are singing. Marlin Herr is also part of the group.Amazing Grace My Chains are GoneBetter Than a Hallelujah
My chains are gone, I’ve been set freeWe pour out our miseries, God just hears a melodyMy God, my Savior has ransomed me.Beautiful the mess we are.And like a flood, His mercy reignsThe honest cries of breaking heartsUnending love, amazing grace.Are better than a hallelujah.(Chris Tomlin)(Amy Grant)
10,000 Reasons
You’re rich in love and you’re slow to anger Your name is great and your heart is kind For all your goodness I will keep on singing Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find. (Matt Redmon)
Current members of the Praise Team are Eli Plant, Jessi Wilson, Marlin Herr, Jake Wilson and Trish Prosser. Trish says, “We would love to have others sing with us or play an instrument to add to the team.” Everyone is welcome, all you need is a desire to make a joyful noise. Trish says, “Like Jake always says, we sing because we love to, not because we can.” However, rest assured, the Praise Team does more than make a joyful noise. “We are always blessed by the feedback we get when we sing. People tell us they are really touched by our songs and our story,” adds Jake.
Psalm 98:4 “Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music…” NIV
Trish’s favorite Bible verse is from Philippians 4:13. It is good to remember this verse no matter whether we are singing in front of an audience or going about our daily lives. God is always with us and He gives us strength in whatever we do.
Philippians 4:13 “I can do everything through God who gives me strength.” NIV