A Taste of Alaska

“Oh taste and see that the Lord is good…He is good…He is good.” Whether singing this lively worship song in Cleveland, Tennessee on Sunday morning or traveling nearly 5,000 miles to sing in the 2008 Alaska Camp Meeting, the Westmore Sanctuary choir is ready to sing for the glory of God.

After sixteen long hours from Cleveland, Tennessee to Anchorage, Alaska, a weary band of travelers arrived in “The Last Frontier” state. For over a year, many choir members had worked diligently to raise funds to make the trip. Some had taken their personal vacation time to make the trip. After months of planning and preparation, the choir had finally made it. This would be the fifth trip the Westmore choir has made, under the direction of Steven Allen, to provide music for a Camp Meeting in a state where finances would prevent hosting a large choir. It has been the mission of the choir to minister in state meetings regardless of their size or location.

The choir began each day with sight seeing expeditions in the surrounding Anchorage area. The beautiful Alaskan snow-capped mountains seemed to stretch endlessly. The ice blue glaciers glistened against the azure sky. We were in awe of the majesty of God’s creation. The Alaskan wildlife population kept us entertained. Have you ever seen a “moose” chase a “goose” across a parking lot? Neither had we. It was amazing to be in an area where the bald eagle is as common as a mocking bird.

Each evening, the choir led in praise and worship and various choir selections during the Camp Meeting services. The multi-cultural congregation joined with us as we lifted our voices in tandem praise. It reminded us that, wherever we are, whatever race or culture, we are all a part of God’s family.

Various groups from the state of Alaska blessed the congregation with their ministry. The Samoan youth drama group presented a moving interpretive dance performance. We were all inspired with their enthusiasm and artistic abilities.

Other activities of the week included hosting a prison service in a local prison conducted by several men who accompanied the choir. Numerous ladies from Westmore attended the Ladies Ministries Luncheon, where Pat Daugherty was the special guest speaker. A ladies trio from the choir provided special praise and worship music for the luncheon. Pastor Page and Steve Allen led in a workshop designed especially for pastors and worship leaders. As we traveled on the bus each day, the choir was blessed to share in devotions and singing. Our bus driver was especially impressed as he quietly observed our worship.

It was a privilege to be able to share the week with state administrative bishop and his wife, Gary and Dorlene Harris. They are special friends of the Westmore family, having been a part of our congregation for several years prior to their Alaskan ministry.

Each afternoon before the evening service, our pastor, Reverend Kelvin Page, shared in a dynamic Bible study session. Based on the book of Nehemiah, the study centered around the theme of leadership. Following the Bible study, we were all blessed by the unique ministries of Dr. Raymond Culpepper and Pastor George Moxley.

Along with the singing, sightseeing, fellowship, fun and seafood….many lives were touched along the way. Several choir members had the opportunity to share their faith with others, including our bus driver/tour guide, taxi drivers, and waitresses.

Our trip to Alaska will long be remembered as one where we sang together, prayed together, traveled together, ate together, and shared in Christian fellowship—because wherever you are…from sea to shining sea, God is there!

“Oh taste and see that the Lord is good…”

--Anita Hughes: Anita serves as executive assistant to the director for Church of God Care Ministries and has been member of the Westmore Sanctuary choir for 12 years.)

Steve Allen serves as the Minister of Music for the Westmore Church of God and is the director of the Sanctuary Choir.