Conley, Norman, Barrand take on new roles at Gobin

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Three men have recently taken on new roles at Gobin Memorial United Methodist Church.

Jared Norman, a junior music education major at DePauw University, is the church's new choir director.

Originally from Greenwood, Norman graduated from Center Grove High School where he was heavily involved in music and theatre.

Since coming to DePauw, he has been in eight theatrical productions, become a member of DePauwCappella, and has served as a singer in the Gobin choir, along with other activities on campus.

As he steps up to take the choir director position at Gobin, Norman said he is both excited and a little nervous to be directing a choir of his peers. He hopes this year the choir will continue its excellent reputation for beautiful music that glorifies our Lord.

Michael Conley began in August as Gobin's instrumentalist.

Conley has played the piano since the age of 3, and began playing the organ when he was 13.

"I have a lot of experience in service playing as I have played at St. Luke's UMC in Indianapolis for the past five years," Conley said. "The experience that I have gained from playing at a church that size will help me bring new ideas to the Gobin family."

Conley, a sophomore music education major at DePauw, looks forward to meeting the people of Gobin. He aspires to one day be a high school choir teacher.

"I am very excited to be here and I hope to add great things to each worship service here at Gobin," he said.

Stepping into the role of director of children's ministries is Andy Barrand, who has been a member at Gobin for two years.

Barrand, a Fort Wayne native, is a graduate of Ball State University and holds a degree in photojournalism. He is currently employed as a photographer, reporter and page designer at the Journal Review in Crawfordsville.

"For a church to thrive, there have to be activities and opportunities for its youth," Barrand said. "I hope to develop some great programs to get the kids of our congregation involved."

Barrand resides in Greencastle with his wife Jamie and son Will, 8. He also has a 19-year-old daughter, Danielle, who is studying nursing at Ivy Tech Community College.

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