By Carl Stagner

As the number of weeks until the Church of God Convention decreases with remarkable rapidity, details about the various components of the event are being finalized. Already the Church of God movement has come to recognize that collaboration best characterizes the ongoing planning and preparation for the congregational worship experiences slated for Tampa. Though often blending into the visible background of the worship band, it is the bass that nevertheless adds depth, and often incredible musical artistry, to the overall sound. This is certainly the case with D. Aaron Woolsey.

Aaron Woolsey

Twenty-six years. That’s how long Aaron Woolsey’s been a part of leading worship in the church. Since he was in the seventh grade, Aaron has continued to offer his talent for God’s glory and to the congregation in facilitation of collective, inspirational worship experiences.

“I first started out playing in Alma First Church of God in Alma, Michigan,” Aaron recounts. “From there, I played a bit in college at North Anderson Church of God in Anderson, Indiana. After that I spent eleven years playing at Crossings Community Church in Oklahoma City.”

Recently, he and his family moved to New City Church, also in Oklahoma City, and, of course, Aaron continues to play his instrument.

“I enjoy playing music because it provides an opportunity to worship our heavenly Father through song,” Aaron reflects. “God has blessed me with musical talent so, by playing for God, it allows me to give thanks and have that intimate, worshipful experience between me and him. It’s very humbling to be a part of something that allows others to sing praises to the King.”

Sarah Scharbrough McLaughlin (and team), Leslie Parker Barnes, Leo and Meagan Flores, Michael Romero, and Allen Swoope are among those working together, praying together, and coordinating together to produce moments at Convention 2023 during which the presence of God is sure to be palpable and powerful. This historic approach to Church of God Convention music ministry is something Church of God people from east to west, from north to south, will want to see with their own eyes (and hear with their own hears, following along in personal and collective worship with their own singing mouths and uplifted hands!).

“Getting the opportunity to play with talented musicians I have never played with before,” is a major draw for Aaron Woolsey to participate in the group approach. “It will be fun to collaborate with each other to bring a fruitful worship experience,” he concludes.

“He’s got the whole world in his hands.” What an encouraging reality! Be inspired by it, be challenged by it, and experience it firsthand at Convention 2023 and General Assembly, June 22–25 in Tampa, Florida. Learn more and register at www.chogconvention.org.

Feature (top) photo: Crossings Community Church band leading worship at Convention 2019 in Orlando; Aaron Woolsey on bass (right background).