Never Once

“Never Once” is a new song in the University Singer’s repertoire. The lyrics relay a strong message of God’s constant presence through our earthly battles. This song has had a powerful imact on our team and their audiences. The pictures and videos display our experiences traveling and worshiping together during the first three days.

Enjoy,
Kacey Blackwell

Golden Dream

The ministry of the University Singers has been to mainly military personnel. In this video the Singers ministered to Army and Air Force men and women through Disney’s Epcot theme song, “Golden Dream”, the Singers most difficult a cappella piece. It has taken us a few days to work on it, but I am excited to show you the incredible ministry you have contributed to through financial and prayer support.

Vincenzo and the Crash of ’15

It was a pretty normal day. After the exhilaration of a morning spent touring in Venice, the OFC team had settled back for a long bus ride to Florence. As has become typical on these extended trips in the bus, the occupants of the last two rows were throwing themselves into a comical uproar. Tanner Lambert, the Univertsity Singers’ highest tenor, was merrily leading us on a verbal “tour” of Italy. Sides were split was he described his adventures in the “Dojo’s Palace.” Then, just like that, our cacophony of raucous laughter came crashing to a halt, just like the cars in front of us.

Now, it is high time we recognized the most important, unofficial member of the OFC team: our driver, Vincenzo Pedonta. Without the services of this colorful man, Operation Freedom’s Cadence would have gone nowhere fast. As the cars in front of us collided and swerved, he dodged left with incredible swiftness, and impeccable skill. While the rest of us froze in our places, unsure of what was happening, Vincenzo’s constant awareness prevented a situation far worse than the one which actually occurred. 

All of this took place in seconds. Not twenty seconds after the accident, we had pulled over – assessing the situation. Debris littered the highway behind our bus. A black car, the original size of which we could no longer tell, sat motionless and completely backwards against the now misshapen guardrail. In front of us, the small van which had been involved had slid to a quiet stop.

It was scary.

Next, came the noisy morass of questions. We blew a tire, right? Did we just hit that car? What happened? Is everybody OK?!?

Relief came as we saw the passengers of the mangled black car step out of their vehicle – especially as we saw the one coming from the driver’s side. The driver of the little van had also gotten out, and was inspecting the damage to his own car. Dr. Carr, the team’s veteran military chaplain, came towards the back of the bus, guiding disturbed students through the shock of witnessing such a violent crash. Fortunately, everyone seemed to be just fine, and after a short stop, we were on our way again. We talked about it, we prayed about it, and we overcame the adrenaline of it. And Vincenzo… Well, he just keeps on “truckin'”. 

Still alive (Thank the Lord),

Aaron Brickle

Omnipotent, Omnipresent Intimacy

How can such a big, all-knowing God be with everyone at all times and yet orchestrate and bless every detail of our individual lives? It’s a mind-blowing reality that whether we are home or in Europe the Holy Spirit shows Himself mighty often, in our eyes, in insignificant ways. If we could be honest with ourselves, there are circumstances in life that we would not choose, but I am continually reminded that “God works all things for our good and His glory”. Singers and Media students from a small university in Central, SC traveled to Europe and are seeing God work in miraculous ways.

The Operation Freedom’s Cadence (OFC) team previously visited Landstuhl Army Base in Landstuhl, Germany and Regional Medical Center along with Spangdahlem Air Force Base in Bitberg, Germany. Sunday morning, May 17th, 2015 we began our mission in Landstuhl. Upon our arrival the University Singers set up their equipment in preparation for the 11 o’clock chapel service. All who came were blessed by music and testimony and we were blessed by their hospitality. After the service we were treated to lunch at Bruno’s, an Italian Restaurant on base. We were privileged to meet and fellowship with military personnel and their families. Kaycee Blackwell and I met Chris, his wife Tammy and also U.S. Army Officer Monique, a woman who once served as a Drill Sergent. We loved hearing about their families and the different bases and jobs where they served and were sad that we had such a short time with them. Shortly after lunch we headed to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center.

Landstuhl Regional Medical Center is the largest hospital in Germany and cares for our troops and their families, Afghanis, Africom, and others. Our first bit of news at the hospital was that actor and comedian, George Lopez, was inside visiting with patients. As exciting as that was, nothing could compare to what we were about to experience. Only part of our large team was able to go inside but, thankfully, I was allowed to be the photographer and videographer inside.

First, we sang to a young soldier being treated for his pancreas and who appreciated the music and prayer by retired Navy Chaplain, Gary Carr. We then moved to another ward were we met a favorite of ours, April. We found out that April is from South Carolina, not too far from Southern Wesleyan University. She shared that her tour was over because of her medical condition and would be heading home soon. Reverend Gail Kerstetter asked if the University Singers could sing for her and she consented with a request for something peppy. The University Singers followed with, “When God Dips His Love in My Heart”. April clapped along and enjoyed the music and toward the end became emotional. She mentioned that she streams her church services online and hadn’t missed a Sunday yet. After, she expressed her appreciation for the special music. After sharing our thankfulness for her and her courage and sacrifice, we proceeded throughout the hospital and headed back to the bus. While at the hospital we met two people from right in our back yard and were encouraged to see God’s hand in the mission He has sent us on.

One of the most memorable moments happened after we left the hospital and were on the bus. Assistant Army Chaplain Sergent King rode with us to the entrance of the base and before leaving began to tell us of a recent mission he had been a part that which included sixty fallen heroes. He told us that those situations are the hardest part of his job. He then explained about the flags that are draped over the fallen soldiers between the battlefield and home. He informed us that there are about six or seven different flags that are draped over the caskets and the last flag is the flag presented to the family at the burial. The other flags, after use, are considered soiled and are properly disposed of. In his hand he held three cut-out stars from a “soiled” flag and presented them to retired Navy Chaplain Gary Carr and Reverends Bob and Gail Kerstetter. Chaplain Gary Carr shared his thoughts about receiving a star:

“More important than the star itself is the life it represents. Receiving that gift from Sergeant King was not only a great honor but also a humbling experience, because the joy of receiving the gift is only exceeded by the sadness of what that gift cost. One of our finest Americans gave his life for freedom.”

Although there are more stories to share from yesterday, I hope you can see the hand of God active and intimately involved in Operation Freedom’s Cadence. We consider OFC and honor and a privilege to be a part of The mission of our Commander and Chief Jesus Christ. Thank you for your prayer and support.

We Hit The Alps

Eight hours a day in planes, trains, and automobiles has left the team in a stupor. With 4000+ miles of confined spaces and expensive visits to the restroom, we have learned the truth about the morose tedium of international travel. Fortunately, our team has managed to bear our “great burden” of jet-lag, hard work, and early mornings with good humor. Mirth, happiness, and, frankly obnoxious, spurts of laughter, filled our bus ride across Germany. Then… We hit the Alps.

A mad dash ensued; everyone scrambling for cameras and views of God’s finest wrinkling of the earth. It was a sight to behold: the frenzied hunt for the perfect picture, that is. Many “wow!”s were voiced; many praises to God were spoken. And in the end, the plethora of gorgeous photos taken outweighs the many near death experiences faced by the brave photographers. The environment looked like a green screen; like something out of a movie. Blacks, greys, and whites formed a perfect picture of God’s creative glory.

The singers finished the day with a beautiful performance at the chapel of the US Army base in Garmisch, Germany. Nestled comfortably at the foot of a massive mountain, the venue was perfect, inside and out. And while the concert’s attendance was not as great as others, it was definitely the most musically solid performance the group had yet put on. No doubt, every soul present was touched by their beautiful ministry… and the view…

Reporting with wonder,
  Aaron Brickle.

Serving through Worship and Fellowship!

Serving the military through worship provided a new perspective for The University Singers. They began a busy day with three back to back concerts. They first traveled to Landstuhl Army Base where Gail Kerstetter led The Singers in a worship service that incorporated different genres of songs from contemporary worship to hymns. After a great service, the team met some military families and pastors, who later shared lunch and an opportunity to fellowship with one another.

The next stop was the base hospital, which is the biggest military hospital in Europe. The Singer performed for and ministered to select patients who were truly touched by there message of worship. Following the hospital stop, the team ran 45 minutes late getting to our last concert at Spangdahelm Air Force Base. After setting up equipment and  singing to a large crowd, the children’s pastor spoke to one of the singers. She expressed how grateful she was that the Singers were running late because she never gets to hear the service but she got to hear two songs that, “blessed [her] heart.”

Romans 8:28 says “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who are called according to his purpose.”

The University Singers had a purpose to fulfill that day and being late allowed them to do so.

Coming to you from Europe, until next time
Kaycee Blackwell

So Many Events, So Little Time

The OFC Team completed another day of their mission and Christ was glorified. The Singers started the day with prayer and breakfast and departed for Landstuhl Army Base. On the way, they filled the bus with singing as they prepared for their first chapel service.

At the Landstuhl Chapel, they performed many songs. One song in particular that resonated with the crowd was a great a cappella rendition of “When God Dips His Love”. People stood in testimony with raised hands for this amazing song.

Afterwards, the Singers enjoyed Italian cuisine along with Bruno’s special schnitzel and fellowship with the troops at Bruno’s restaurant on the base. They really bonded with the church congregation. To show their appreciation, It is customary for the Singers to sing a song of thanks to the Chef and Staff. This song is always a crowd pleaser as the tune is Michael Jackson’s” Man In The Mirror”, and the lyrics are original to the University Singers. Shortly after, Chaplin Sherman Baker escorted the Singers to Landstuhl Army Regional Medical Center where they sang to military patients. One soldier, April cried in response to joyful songs. God was working His way with all in attendance.

From there, the Singers departed for their second destination to Spangdahlem Air Force Base. There, the Singers had a great connection with Airmen and families from this younger congregation. There was a great turn out for University Singers sang who more contemporary worship songs and delivered a few patriotic songs. One touching moment was when Reverend Bob Kerstetter prayed with Airman named Nate who was moved by Cpl. Chris Peck’s testimony. According to Reverend Bob, “It was such a privilege and honor to talk and pray with Nate about his relatively new walk with the Lord.” After the concert, the OFC team was treated to food, fellowship and free bowling with the troops. Overall, it was a phenomenal start of the OFC tour.

Reporting God’s work
Levi Roach

Remembering A Brother

Early Monday morning kicked off the opening day of the European tour in Germany for the University Singers. They gave their first performance in the chapel on Landstuhl Army Base. Afterwards, the Singers dined and fellowshiped with residents of the base. They then proceeded to visit the hospital on base and sing with and talk to some of the patients there. Later that afternoon, the University Singers made their way to the Spangdahelm Air Force Base for another performance.

Monday was notable for some special moments and interactions. One special moment was supposed to happen for Kaitlin Mosley, the freshman alto of the group. Her brother Michael is stationed in Germany. The plan had been for Michael, along with his wife Victoria and their two daughters to attend one of the concerts on Monday. Unfortunately, due to some car trouble, Kaitlin’s brother and his family were unable to make either performance. While admitting that she missed seeing them and that it weighed heavily on her mind early in the morning, Kaitlin said there was a moment God gave her peace about the situation.

When we were singing, we were warming up on the bus, to the first base. We sang ‘Be Still My Soul’ and when we were singing that we were driving through these mountains and it was awesome. I had this super big God that was like, it’s ok if I don’t see them.

While Kaitlin was not able to visit with her family today, she along with the rest of the University Singers experienced some special things. The first memorable moment of the day came when the Singers came across a woman named April. April, who happens to be a native of Florence, South Carolina was waiting to head back to the United States. She was recently diagnosed with diabetes and that cut her tour short. The University Singers were able to bring some encouragement to this woman and it was very emotional for all involved.

The second moment that really resonated with the group was when they were leaving Landstuhl Army Base. The Staff Sergeant who guided the Singers around the base had a very unique gift for the group and specifically Chris Peck, the former Marine who travels with the team. The Staff Sergeant told the story of how he used to help prepare fallen soldiers for their return home. He informed the group that throughout the process of returning the bodies of the fallen soldiers, an American flag stays on top of their coffins at all times. When the soldier is moved from one location to another, a new flag is put on top of the coffin and the previous flag is properly disposed. When a few of his close friends had fallen, the Staff Sergeant secured a few of stars from the flags before the flags were disposed of. After sharing this, the Staff Sergeant gave four of those stars to the University Singers. Three were for the group as a reminder of what they are doing and who they are helping with this ministry and one was given specifically to Chris Peck.

Those were just two special interactions in a day filled with them. These moments will stay with each member of the group for their entire lives. Even Kaitlin Mosely who missed out on seeing her brother couldn’t complain at how Monday’s events unfolded. On a positive note though, her brother Michael will be be able to visit home this summer so they will be reunited soon.

I’m Zack Adams, stay tuned for more amazing stories on how God is moving and changing lives here in Europe.

OFC: MULTIPLE FIRSTS

Southern Wesleyan University
Photo By: Aaron Brickle

After a long ride to Atlanta Airport, two flights, and another lengthy, albeit comfortable bus ride, the OFC team arrived to their first destination in Bitsburg Germany yesterday afternoon. Months of prayer, fundraising, and diligent planning have all led to this trip and it’s mission. That mission is to bring the Gospel Message to our deployed troops here in Germany, as well as Italy over the next two weeks.

I have the tremendous fortune of being a part of this team. I am one of the media members that will be photographing, filming, and writing about this trip. We all eagerly anticipate seeing how God works on this trip, not only in the lives of the troops being ministered to, but also in the lives of the members of our team. The first performances by the OFC team begin today. Before that first performance though, I want to take some time to reflect.

This trip marks a few firsts for me. The flights over here marked the first time that I have ever traveled outside of the United States. It also marks the first time in my twenty-six years of living that I have flown on an airplane. While those are notable, if somewhat small footnotes in one’s life, they have already led to some fruitful dividends. On the first flight from Atlanta to Paris, I had the chance to get to talk to some of the University Singers I have not had too much interaction with, if any at all. During that flight I sat next to Katy Dyches. I have seen her around Southern Wesleyan University’s (SWU) campus and have seen her perform but had never had a chance to really talk with her. I found out she loves to read and is a Lord of the Rings fan. I also had the chance to chat with Kaitlin Mosley for a bit. I found out that during our time in Germany, we will get to see her brother, who happens to be married to a friend of mine. In my first conversation with her, we found something that connected us. It astounds me how God can so easily bring people together.

I look forward to the many more firsts on this trip I’m sure to encounter and the blessings that will come from those. Be sure to check back every day for news, updates, and personal stories from Operation Freedom’s Cadence.

I’m Zack Adams and I look forward to sharing more with you over the next two weeks.

OFC: Day 1 “In Flight”

Southern Wesleyan University
Photo By: Aaron Brickle

OFC team members had a day full of excitement, anticipation, and travel. Overall our travel time was around 14 hours, and needless to say, we were all very tired. We flew from Atlanta to Paris which was about a 7 hour flight and then had a slight delay and finished our flight to Germany. When we arrived in Frankfurt, Germany we caught our bus and traveled to our hotel. We were so excited that the bus seats were comfortable, because many of us didn’t sleep well, or sleep at all, on the plane, so, we caught a nap on the way to the hotel.

Castle01Day1SWU
Photo By: Hannah Coleman

The ride from the airport to the hotel was marvelous. Every few miles was a small, quaint village surrounded by mountains. Tutor style homes stood side by side with an old, gothic style cathedral in each town. Outside of city limits were fields of yellow wild flowers, vineyards, and windmills, giving us a sense of the culture and customs of the German people. We traveled in awe, anticipating what Germany has for us.

After we ate supper at the hotel, we discussed logistics for the following day and commenced with a time of devotion in John 1, song, and prayer. Our chaplain, Ken Dill, encouraged us and affirmed us in the truth that darkness cannot overcome light and our mission was to bring the light of Jesus Christ and to allow the Holy Spirit to illuminate the hearts of our soldiers with the truth He has already worked in their hearts. Nothing can stop us. God the Father has gone before us, He is with us, and will never leave us or forsake us!