Music Ministries

Pastor Loren Tupper

Pastor Loren grew up in South Dakota and attended South Dakota State University receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education in 1976. He and his wife, Becky, were married in 1976 and have three daughters, Jessica, Kristina, and Roberta; one son-in-law, Kraig, who is married to Jessica; and one granddaughter. After teaching music for several years in South Dakota, he felt the Lord calling him to full-time Christian ministry. He joined Pastor Joe Colaw on staff at College Wesleyan Church in Marion, IN, in 1989, as Minister of Music. In 1991, he joined the pastoral staff at First Wesleyan Church. His hobbies include announcing Lady Eagle and Eagle basketball games at OWU, spending time with his family, and, of course, noon basketball.

The Worship Choir leads the congregation in Sunday morning worship at 9 a.m. and presents an anthem each week. In addition, the choir presents at least two musicals each year, usually at Christmas and Easter. In the past, the choir has performed in Branson with Dino at his Easter Spring Spectacular, and has hosted contemporary Christian music artists Jay and Amy Rouse, Dick and Mel Tunney, and Brian McSee.

Biblical Roots and Musical Styles

Our biblical music ancestors span the scripture from Genesis to Revelation. Music has always been a vital part of our worship and Christian celebration. If you were to visit all the services of FWC, you would quickly see we offer a variety of musical styles. We sing a great deal of traditional hymns, contemporary anthems, and choruses. Our music must relate to where our people live, and must draw them to Jesus. Our objective is not to expand people's musical taste or appreciation. Without apology, our goal is to draw people to Jesus and help them to truly worship Him.

The Choir in the Contemporary Church

At First Wesleyan, we are committed to the role of the choir, endeavoring to keep it fresh and new in the life of the contemporary church. It provides many people with an outlet for service and ministry, as well as leading the congregation in worship. The impact of the choir, both visually and musically, make it worthwhile on a regular basis. Our music is celebrative, with a message; our goal is to touch the heart, not just stimulate the mind; and, the choir is contagious - the congregation will never express themselves corporately more than what the choir models for them.

Musical Opportunities:

Worship Choir (Adult)

Worship Choir practices every Wednesday during the school year, and sings each Sunday morning in the 9:00 a.m. worship service and occasionally in the Ten20 service. In addition, the choir presents at least two musicals each year, usually at Christmas and Easter.

Chi Alpha Youth Choir (6th -12th grade)

Chi Alpha Youth Choir practices right before the youth group meets on Wednesday evenings beginning in January. The youth choir presents a concert in the spring and also participates in the annual Campus Challenge competition.

Possibility People (Children: 1st - 5th grade)

Possibility People, our children's choir, practices each Sunday evening during the school year. The children occasionally sing for the Sunday morning services and also present two musicals each year, usually at Christmas and in the spring.

Worship Teams
Solos/Ensembles