"Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything.  A deacon must be the husband of but one wife and must manage his children and his household well. Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus."   —1 Timothy 3:8-13

These are the men David put in charge of the music in the house of the LORD after the ark came to rest there.   —1 Chronicles 6:31

All these men were under the supervision of their fathers for the music of the temple of the LORD, with cymbals, lyres and harps, for the ministry at the house of God. Asaph, Jeduthun and Heman were under the supervision of the king.   —1 Chronicles 25:6 

What an amazing day to see the Spokane Christian Church experience its first Deacon appointment.  This past Sunday Andrew Cook was appointed Deacon of Worship along with his wife Christi. Andrew and Christi moved to Spokane along with 20 others to plant the Spokane Christian Church just 6 years ago. They both have demonstrated a sincere heart for vertical worship and a strong desire to see all people connect with God. 

Through their leadership they have been able to balance a variety of styles of praise into worship from band songs to a-capella songs to listening to gospel CD's. Andrew has a desire to help all people connect with God, some times that means through a video, other times through a song, other times through a play, through the sharing of a testimony, the congregational singing or maybe through prayer.  God has richly blessed us with a couple that understands the importantance of having diverse worship. 

The church was planted just over 6 years go, led by Mark and Annie McCune.  Here is a short letter from Mark and Annie McCune written to the Church.

"Annie and I are excited to hear the news of the appointment of the first deacon in the Spokane Christian Church, that of Andrew Cook as deacon of worship.  We are so grateful for the visionary leadership provided by Jermaine and Stefanie as they continue to direct the church forward.  This appointment is yet another milestone in the maturity of the church.

Andrew has taken a vision hatched five years ago and has brought it to life.  He and Christi have taught us and modeled for us the importance of balance in music worship.  Their passion for vertical worship has inspired not only the Spokane Christian Church, but many congregations throughout the U.S., including our ministry here in Seattle. Andrew's example as a true worshiper of God has deepened my passion to worship.  He consistently calls me to worship more deeply.  That is what a great worship leader does.

Andrew's appointment as deacon of worship is encouraging to all who all who know him.  I only pray that he and Christi's music ministry will continue to grow, and that they will continue to call us higher as we seek to worship God."

Love to all,
Mark, Annie, and the kids

Jermaine Peacock along with his wife Stefanie, Mike and Linda Yochum, Corbin and Jen Anderson, Dan and Kate Mills would pray over Andrew's appointment and ask God to bless and protect their ministry.  Here is Jermaine's charge to Andrew shared during his appointment right before the prayer: 

"Andrew Cook, I charge you to be a deacon of worship to the Church.  Keep the faith that is in Christ while serving the Spokane Christian Church. Keep God as the focus and guide for your decision making and service to the church.  Be responsible for the planning and execution of all congregational worship services in support of the overall vision and direction of the Church. Meet the diverse worship needs among Christians and visitors to your best ability.  Oversee the lead worshippers, singers,musicians, technical ministry and those that would speak during communion and contribution with love and respect in Christ."