Campus Choir performs during convocation week
Photo By Olivia Medlin, historian of campus choir
Campus Choir hosted a chapel service Tuesday Sept. 30, in the Conn Center. The choir, directed by Jimmy Phillips, led the students and faculty in worship.
Joined by Lee University Alumni Tyler Richardson, the choir sang six songs in this special worship service the week of convocation.
'I always love being back in the Conn Center with everyone and with [the] choir,' Richardson said. 'I believe there is a special touch on this place.'
The service was opened with the song 'You Are Worthy,' which is one of the most popular songs in their repertoire.
During the song, select choir members stepped up to the front of the stage to perform a dance to "You Are Worthy" as the rest of the choir sang.
Choir member Kyle Gugiere was one of the members who performed the dance. He has been a member of the choir for three years, along with his wife Faith Guigere.
'[The service was] a powerful morning where the Spirit of God was allowed to just come and do whatever he pleased,' Kyle said.
Faith led the song, 'Be Still and Know' and the audience joined in and sang along with her.
The song lasted longer than usual, as the student audience became very engaged and continued in worship as she repeated the chorus.
Tyler Richardson joined the choir as he led 'Whole Earth Sings,' which he wrote. With the song's upbeat and uplifting chorus, many students danced around the front as he sang. Two choir members waved flags as the room worshiped.
Former choir member Austin Barnwell described the experience as 'incredible,' noting that the choir had gotten better since he had last been a part of it.
'Tuesday's service was a great example of how Campus Choir adds so much to Lee's campus. They bring a unique anointing and they have a heart that is to simply worship God and experience his presence,' Barnwell said. 'They want to share this experience with others, and that is exactly what happened Tuesday.'
Campus Choir ended the service with the song 'Victor's Crown.' As the song played, it evoked strong emotion from many students.
'God was lifted up and his presence was made known. Students responded in their own unique ways of worship. I loved it. It's a legacy I am proud to be apart of,' Barnwell said.
