From Felix Mendelssohn to Charles Wesley to David Crowder, First United Methodist Church splendidly accomplishes the Psalmist’s admonition, “Sing to Him, sing praise to Him; tell of all of His wonderful acts. “ But you ask, “Who is David Crowder?” You need go no further than the 9:15 worship service to hear our First Church Praise Band where you will likely not only hear David Crowder, but will sing his praise choruses along with band members Cheri Oechsle, Susan Burchfield, David Mills, Jacob Brake, Diane Thompson, and Dillon Staas.

“The primary focus from the beginning has been to bring people into our church,” began bass guitar player and back-up vocalist Susan Burchfield. We know there are lots of people who are comfortable with rock music and high tech media, but who do not worship God. By providing this type of music and media within the walls of the First Church’s beautiful sanctuary, our aim is give them a place to meet Jesus Christ.”  Susan continued, “First Church members are blessed with an outstanding classic and traditional music program.  We love and admire that music, and want it always to be the music of this church, but we love reaching out as well with our style of music.”

Cheri Oechsle is the musical director of the band. Cheri plays keyboard and sings lead vocal. “Our music is upbeat with lots of chorus repetitions,” Cheri explained. “I talk with Reverend Staas to learn the scripture and the theme of each worship service. Then we select our music based upon those themes. The purpose of our music is to allow God to use us to bring people into a state of worship to receive Dillon’s or John’s message.”

What would a rock band be without a drummer? David Mills, a senior at Van Wert High School has been the drummer for several years. “David is the key to what we are able to do,” offered one of the band members.  “He is extremely skilled and will leave his legacy here at First Church.” David is currently tutoring Mathew Oechsle who will continue that legacy as the drummer when David leaves for college.

The rhythm guitar player, who is self taught, picked up the guitar in 1999. He and a friend played gigs in local restaurants a couple of times a month. That is until he became too busy with his day job, minister. “The first song that I learned to play,” laughed Dillon, “was Mommas, Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to be Cowboys.” Dillon, who also sings back-up vocal added, “I’m glad to be involved as senior pastor.  Not only do I enjoy playing, but I feel my presence in the band adds credibility to the contemporary service.”

Jacob Brake and Diane Thompson round out the band.  “I was at church listening to and watching the band,” explained Jacob who plays the electric guitar. “I thought, ‘I can play some of those notes’, so I asked to join.” Diane, who sings back-up vocal, felt called to the band as a way to express her love for God.

The sleuth salutes Diane, Jacob and all the member of the Praise Band for “raising a joyful song unto God.”