Torch, Spring/Summer 2011

Campus News 34 TORCH | Spring–Summer 2011 ARTWORK: JOSHUAWURZELBACHER | CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY; PHOTOS: SCOTT HUCK | CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY HeartSong Reframes Teams For Cedarville students on HeartSong teams, summer means hitting the road. Four teams are traveling for 10 weeks visiting camps and churches across the country. Like the Swordbearers and Abundant Life teams of the past, HeartSong teams are made up of musically talented students who have a heart for worship. But there’s a twist — they’ve left the matching outfits at home. More than a vocal ensemble, HeartSong is a complete worship band with students who play keyboard, guitars, and drums as well as sing. Teams blend musical styles, Scripture, and personal stories to engage diverse generations. Although their sound has adapted through the years, their message is distinctly Cedarville and wholly Christ. Alumni may be surprised to know that Cedarville’s traveling ministry teams have changed over the years — just as alumni have changed and their churches have changed — to present a relevant message of timeless truth. “They may have an idea of what a college team looks and sounds like, but HeartSong is not your average college team,” said Jim Cato, executive director of HeartSong Ministries. “We’ve worked hard to cultivate a more professional look and sound that communicates the livable reality of the Gospel through genuine worship.” While HeartSong teams still visit churches, their ministry focus has shifted. “Many churches no longer hold Sunday evening or mid-week services,” said Cato. “Where we used to see a few hundred high school students in youth groups all summer, we now see more than 10,000 at camps and youth events.” HeartSong teams have become a significant resource for recruiting prospective students in areas of the country where Cedarville is less well-known. Ron and Pam Smith toured with a Swordbearers team in the mid 1980s. Today, their daughter Joellyn continues in their footsteps as a member of HeartSong. After seeing a recent performance in Cedarville’s chapel, Pam wrote, “I expected I would enjoy the students’ presentation, but I had not expected to be so ministered to. The group of young adults on the stage showed their love for their Savior and shared it with the audience. That’s the only way I want our God and Cedarville University represented.” Visit HeartSong’s website to schedule a team visit or buy the latest CD, Generation . cedarville.edu/heartsong G E N E R A T I O N