On Friday May 22nd, Cheryle and Greg were married at the Mt. Olivet Baptist Church in Acworth, GA. Friends and family gathered to share in the quiet evening ceremony, which was officiated by Jason Clark of The Nelons. Jason was joined by his wife Kelly Nelon and their daughter Amber to provide special music. An intimate twilight reception followed at an exceptional restaurant in downtown Acworth. Then off for a romantic honeymoon. Right? No way. Inner Circle was scheduled to sing at a church homecoming on Sunday morning following the wedding. This was either a case of poor planning (Cheryle's version) or an exceptional demonstration of ministerial committment (Greg's version). Either way, the homecoming was great, and the couple was off for St. Simons Island, Georgia. Congratulations to Greg and Cheryle.
Inner Circle has recently announced the addition of vocalist Elizabeth Bettis. Elizabeth was a natural choice for the position and has made a smooth and seamless transition. She was saved while attending New Salem Baptist Church in Kennesaw, GA, raised in the church, has been exposed to Christian music her entire life, and knows Inner Circle very well - she is the daughter of Greg. As such, she has been a captive audience for the last 11 years of Inner Circle's ministry and has developed that family vocal sound needed for this position. God has given her the gift of song and prepared her for a new place. Elizabeth has attended the Steve Hurst School of Music since 2003, participated in school music programs and is currently enrolled at Georgia State University in Atlanta, GA.
God has prepared her for ministry in many ways and she is trusting His continued hand on her. She believes Philippians 1:6, " He who began a good work in you, will be faithful to complete it."
Greg said, " I'm amazed how God has continued to grow her life as she has become a young lady. With life being pulled in so many directions, she has held to the convictions God has placed in her heart. She's going to be a great part of the ministry and bring much added value."
The new CD is finally available! Our latest recording project titled "One Reason" has arrived and is ready for release. This CD has 10 great songs arranged to target the listener and the church for powerful worship. These songs deliver the message of Christ directly to our point of need, and without apology. And they are being premiered at local churches and concerts everywhere. You're going to love this one! Look for music samples on the music page and order your copy during our special introductory offer of only $10.00 plus shipping. We're excited to have this opportunity to offer "One Reason". Order your copy of this special CD today.
Even singing requires homework. And as usual, homework equals hard work. Inner Circle recently completed a full week of ministry instruction at the Steve Hurst School of Music in Nashville, Tennessee. The school attracted over three hundred students from 40 states and 4 provinces of Canada. Numerous industry professionals brought their talent and experience to the Trevecca Nazarene University to offer instruction in various music ministry disciplines. Course studies included vocal, organized group, piano/orchestration, performance sound, business administration and more. Over two hundred fifty separate classes where available with an instructional staff of over 40, which included Steve Hurst, Mark Trammell, Debra Talley, Lauren Talley, Steven Nix, Gary Casto, Eddie and Jessica Harrison and others. Organized groups expended a lot of energy improving vocal blends, developing power and projection and business management. A lot of extra work but well worth the sacrifice.
Then came the daily performance sessions. "Performance? Is that necessary?" Singing a song and communicating the message are not the same. Much work is involved in effectively delivering the most powerful message of the ages to a lost and dying world. As a pastor hones his sermon and develops the most effective method of presenting it, so too must those who minister in song. "Study to show thyself approved" was an instructional theme repeated often. Worship and Bible study challenged the heart to be ever cognizant of His call in each ministry and the great responsibility that comes with answering the call. Steve reminded us that woven deep inside of each ministry is the Word of God, and in His Word is His promise. Never settle for mediocrity - always strive for excellence. Not of ourselves, but of Christ alone.