Lititz Worship Arts Post Changes Hands

Scott Distler, pastor of the Grace Brethren church in Lititz, Pennsylvania, has announced on his blog a change in the church's music and worship ministry. Here is his post:

Over the last several years we have enjoyed the ministry of Matt McElravy (pictured) who has served as our Worship Arts Director here at Grace Church. Matt began his relationship with us as an intern under Bryan Nelson. He was then hired part-time to oversee music under Bryan’s leadership. When God called Bryan and Lisa Nelson to Topeka, Kansas, Matt stepped in as our Interim Worship Arts Director and within a few months was offered and accepted the permanent position. Matt had some very big shoes to fill in following Bryan, and as a young man right out of college, Matt did a tremendous job in leading us into a more meaningful worship ministry.

It is now time for a new chapter in Matt’s life. As a young, single man, Matt is ready to embark on some new challenges and, as a result, has submitted his letter of resignation. Matt’s final Sunday with us as our Worship Arts Director will be September 13th.

Matt’s passion to lead worship has been very evident and has been used greatly by the Lord here at Grace. His musical abilities and knowledge amazed us all. And over the last several years we have had the privilege of being greatly ministered to by the original songs that Matt wrote and shared with us here at Grace Church as part of our week to week worship. We are very grateful for the part Mat has played in the life of our church as well as the role Grace Church has played in Matt’s life. Below is part of Matt’s letter to Pastor Tim Auld, our Executive Pastor, notifying us of his resignation:

“I wish to thank you, Pastor Scott, and the rest of the family here at Grace for their understanding, support, guidance, and love during these past two and a half years, and particularly during the past few months as I have been wrestling with this decision. I have always been able to count on your support, and for that, I am grateful beyond words.”

As saddened as we are to see Matt leave, we are equally as excited to announce David Felty as our Interim Worship Arts Director beginning the first week of September. He and Matt will overlap for about 2 weeks to help in the transition. This Interim position is beginning as a 6-month position as we look to evaluate and set our strategy to fill this role permanently.

Most of you are aware of who David is as you have seen him sing several times in recent months here at Grace on Sunday morning. David has amazing vocal and acting talent. In my blog tomorrow I will share with you more about David’s accomplishments. David is also married to Jennifer, who is the head of the music department at Lititz Christian School and who has sung and acted many times on Sunday mornings at Grace as well.

Please be praying for both Matt and David as they transition into these new roles and as they began these new chapters in their live and ministry. Please also be praying for our ministry overall as we seek God’s guidance for the filling of this permanent position.