Great news! After much prayer, interviewing, discussion and much outside input our Search Team understands clearly and unanimously that God has led us to extend an offer to James Griffin as Elevation’s Part-Time Worship Leader. James and Ashley have accepted our call with great excitement. They too feel God's strong and clear call to be part of Elevation. They are truly excited about E; it’s people, praxis and it’s mission.
James and Ashley left North Carolina three months ago with their two children to come to California, completely by faith, seeking where God might lead them to serve. They have been looking for a church like Elevation for a long time. After visiting us they commented at how warm and friendly our body was and how much they and their children enjoyed their time here.
It was wonderful having James here last weekend to lead worship and to spend time with us. Thank you to the large number of you who gave us your personal input during and after last Sunday night’s service. We received a great amount of very positive feedback about James from the body and this really aided in decision-making.
During the first three weeks of the search process we had about 20 people apply and James was and far above all others in alignment with who we are and what we're trying to do here in Santa Cruz. We are looking for more than just a song leader, God called us to search for the person who has the right gifts, skills and talents but also a person that fits five key areas of alignment.
- Theological alignment: Do they fit with our beliefs?
- Philosophical / Values Alignment: Do they fit with regard to our values, and mission?
- Musical Alignment: Do they fit us musically and artistically?
- Cultural Alignment: Do they fit in wacky Santa Cruz?
- Relationship Alignment: Do they fit with our team and our church body personally?
James aligns with Elevation deeply and powerfully; God has shaped James for this church, in this place at this time. As always, God provides for Elevation in amazing and obvious ways!
James will be officially joining our staff December 1st and will assume the role of worship leader, part time (20 hours per week). In addition to leading worship, James will be overseeing ministries connected to the worship services including: creative teams, tech teams, and set-up/tear-down.
Join us in warmly welcoming James, Ashley, Ty and Selah to our family and community. Join us also in thanking God and praising him for an amazing answer to our prayer for a worship leader. Look for ways to bless the Griffins, get to know them and serve them as they relocate and serve Jesus here in Santa Cruz.
Praising God for His provision and goodness
The E Search Team,
Chuckk & Andrea Gerwig
Keith & Nicole McCollum
Thud & Chris Gudnason
PostScript: A Few Details
James is 29 years old, married 8 years to Ashley, has 2 children; Tyler 3 and Selah 5. He has led worship in churches from 50-1500 in size over the last 6 years.