Work in Progress Band
Work in Progress
A Praise Band
Deeply Rooted in VPC
In 1994 Pastor David Wright and his wife, Bonnie, instituted a “Seeker Sensitive” service in the old Fellowship Hall. Their mission was to attract people in the community to learn about God in a creative way. There was a stage, often dramas, a simple message, good fellowship, and plenty of refreshments. But, the main attraction was a newly formed contemporary band, called the Saturday Night Band for lack of a more creative name.
Contemporary Christian music was just beginning to break into mainstream worship. Some of the more popular songs the band performed then included “Shine, Jesus, Shine”, “Into Your Arms”, “Psalm 139”, and “Micah 6:8.”
Contemporary Christian music has changed greatly since 1994, and so has the band. The Saturday night worship service moved to Sunday nights and from Fellowship Hall to the Activity Center and then the Sanctuary. Along with the move came a name change. In 2000 the band adopted the name “Work in Progress", in reference to Philippians 1:6 ("... the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ").
Over the years many people have shared their musical gifts by serving in the band. More than 40 permanent musicians have cycled through the ranks, and another 40 have lent their talents on an as-needed basis.
Work in Progress now enjoys the monthly opportunity to lead music on Sunday mornings as part of the “blended” worship format. Occasionally we get to step out of the church and take our music into the community. In the past year alone, Work in Progress has played for the CROP Walk, the Town of Vienna Holiday Stroll, the Vienna Baptist Coffee House, and the Great Banquet retreats. We’ve also lead worship at other churches -— even at an old fashioned tent revival.
We like to think that the band is still growing from the seed that was planted so many years ago — Seeker Sensitive, engaging newcomers and those who have been around a long time in a creative way.
Current Band Members:
Michael Bronson, bass and guitar
Dave Connor, drums
Burt LeJune, guitar
Dean Manson, keyboard & piano
Donna Middleton, rhythm guitar
Greg Rahal, vocals & small percussion
Michelle Rahal, vocals
Doug Traxler, vocals