International Graduate Student Ministry – Gracepoint Berkeley

[vimeo 7244567 500 281]

One of the many things that I am thankful to God for this year is to be a part of the IGSM praise band and to watch the band members, the music, and the vision come together.

We formally started the praise time at our weekly Friday Forum last year. Though we did not have many gifted musicians, we were convicted by the vision of ministering to our students’ souls using Christian music and lyrics. Last year, the band was small at the start: usually with a keyboardist, a guitarist and a vocalist. On special occasions, we would add a drum player, which would be really exciting.

As we started the new school year, we were able to expand to two bands since some of the brothers took up the “calling” to use their musical talents for God’s purpose. This past week, we have two songs prepared for the praise time. However, an additional song was requested just one day before the Friday Forum. To my amazement, we were able to bring the music together using the short time before the run-through on Friday. I was really amazed on how much the band has improved. Of course, there is still a lot of room for improvement; I mean a lot. But, I want to take a moment to give God all the glory and praise for such progress. Also, I want to thank the Grad Haven bros for lending their place for the praise practice!!!