Eric and Barb Stephan

For most of my life I’ve been involved in various church ministries and activities. But it wasn’t until 1990, after a Pastor and his family moved in next door and befriended my wife and me, that I responded to the gospel, received Christ, and learned to appreciate the whole truth of God’s Word.

My family and I started attending Bethany Bible Church in 1993. Subsequently, my late wife developed cancer and went to be with the Lord in 2002. That was a difficult time and without faith in Christ I don’t know how I would have gotten through it.

Since joining the church, I’ve been active in its music ministry, sharing the musical abilities the Lord has blessed me with, including leading the music during the services. Usually I play the guitar and sing, but I also enjoy picking the mandolin whenever I have the opportunity.

In 2005 I married Barbara, who adds her considerable talents on the banjo to the music ministry. In addition to playing for our church’s worship and praise services, we also enjoy composing original music in the gospel bluegrass or folk style, and presenting our music in outreach programs in our local park.

I’ve been serving as a deacon for several years, and I also lead the adult Sunday school class. Being naturally shy, I’ve found it interesting and somewhat humorous that the Lord would place me in an upfront ministry role. That is a testimony to the fact that He can use anyone He chooses, in any way He chooses, for His glory. I’ve been greatly blessed to serve Him throughout the years.

By the way, I was able to record some of my own compositions of spiritual songs. You can listen to them at this link.