Campbell University conference a musical oasis

By Chick Jacobs
Staff writer

BUIES CREEK - Perhaps it has something to do with Campbell University's mascot, the Camels.

Perhaps it's more in keeping with the idea of a place to rest and renew.

Which ever, the university's annual Oasis music conference promises to provide three days of music and encouragement for pastors and music ministers across the region.

And a heck of a show for regular folks, as well.

"It's not some stuffy collection of church people," said Kelley Garris, a volunteer team leader for the event this week at Campbell. "The music will appeal to just about everybody. We'll have a wide variety of styles for everyone to enjoy."

Three public inspirational concerts will be included in the third annual Oasis event, running Monday through Wednesday. Topping the concerts will be a "Carnegie at the Creek" performance at 7 p.m. Monday in Butler Chapel.

The concert will feature hymn anthems based in American folklore and traditional hymns accompanied by bluegrass musicians. Pepper Choplin, minister of music at Greystone Baptist Church, Raleigh, and Joseph Martin, a native of Rutherfordton now serving as director of Sacred Publications at Shawnee Press, will be honored.

Other free public concerts include Tuesday's "Laughter to Inspiration" presentation of humor in worship and Wednesday's opening concert by the North Carolina Baptist All-State Youth Choir.

All concerts will be in Campbell's Butler Chapel on campus.

The conference was designed to provide a chance for church worship leaders to step back and look at their programs. It's also a rare opportunity for worship leaders to learn new music and worship without having to worry about the planning.

"The program provides us an opportunity for inspiration and renewal," Garris said. "I'm grateful that Campbell has stepped up to promote this sort of event. It's something that so many of the churches here in North Carolina really need."

If You Go

Monday, July 15, 7 p.m.: "Carnegie at the Creek," featuring a salute to Appalachian roots of worship music.

Tuesday, July 16, 7:30 p.m.: "Laughter to Inspiration," a worship service of laughter and music.

Wednesday, July 17, 7 p.m.: concert by the North Carolina Baptist All-State Youth Choir.

All events are free.

Information: divinity.campbell.edu/Oasis/Home.aspx

Source: http://fayobserver.com/articles/2013/07/14/1268575

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