Welcome Julie Wood, our new Music Director

     In February 2005, an 8 member search committee began working to accomplish the task of hiring a Director of Music Ministry for St. Paul congregation. The committee surveyed members of the congregation and developed a job description based on the results of the survey. In May we advertised for the position throughout northern Michigan. The Search Committee developed an interview process and interview questions. On June 9th we interviewed the applicant who applied for the position. We were favorably impressed with the candidate following the interview. She was given a copy of the job description for the position and asked to develop a three year implementation/mission plan. This plan was then reviewed and accepted by Pastor Paul, Marvis McNeil and the Search Committee. On Tuesday, June 28th the Search Committee recommended to Church Council that they hire Julie Wood as the Director of Music Ministry for St. Paul's. The council unanimously voted to hire Julie.

     We are thrilled and honestly believe our prayers have been answered. I know Julie feels that her prayers have been answered as well! We welcome Julie with open arms and know she will provide and lead a music ministry program at St. Paul's that will enhance the proclamation of God’s word.

     Julie comes to us with a BA degree in Music Education from Western Michigan University. She has a Master’s Degree in Teaching through Marygrove College and has taught 10 years in Alcona as their K-12 music teacher. Additionally, she has 10 years experience as the Director of Music at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Alpena. Julie begins her employment in July. An installation weekend for her will be scheduled as soon as possible. Please open your hearts and arms to Julie as she gets to know us and we get to know her over the next several months. She will need our support and continued prayers. Our search committee wants to thank you, the members of the congregation, for your support, guidance and prayers during this process. We feel blessed to have Julie on staff. We hope you will as well. Thank you.

- Claudia Werner, Chair of Search Committee