SoGospel.Com

Our Ministry

The mission of the New Presence Quartet is:

To spread the message of God’s love, salvation, and grace through music;

To love and affirm all God’s people;

To continue the work of Jesus - harmoniously, instinctively and collectively.

Our Bible verse—Psalms 98:4

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth. Make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praises.

History

Gospel music goes back to my High School days in Nebraska, where a classmate, Marilyn Stark, introduced me to Southern Gospel Music. Being a Lutheran, it was never exploited. But I was introduced to the Cathedral Quartet in 1982 and after seminary graduation I asked my brother, Virgil, if he would help me form a Gospel quartet. I preached in several different churches and as I moved from one location to another, each time we would lose members. But in 2001 we were blessed with two new members, Cathi Shaw, and John Hinton. They are dedicated to the Lord and His work and have engaged themselves with weekly, hard practice and that blessing is appreciated.

Pastor Denny

Group Bios

Catherine “Cathi” Shaw

News Flash! Cathi is a grandma!

Austin Gregory was born January 9, 2007, to Todd and Hollie. Austin is fine and family is excited! Congrats to grandparents Cathi & Greg. First time WOW!

Cathi and her husband Greg met when students at Otterbein College in Westerville, Ohio. They now live in Sunbury, Ohio with their younger son, Jared. Their older son and daughter-in-law, Todd and Holli live in the Pittsburgh area. Cathi’s job as a corporate trainer with Worthington Industries in Columbus requires extensive travel, so coming home to “sing with the guys” is a wonderful way to relax and rejuvenate! Cathi sings what is necessary for delivery of a song - lead, alto, tenor and yes even once sang bass. Her song is Land Of The Free.

John Hinton

John is a professor in the Mathematics Department at Otterbein College. His wife Barb and son Andy usually attend practices, providing helpful suggestions. John usually sings alto, but also sings baritone/bass, sometimes tenor...but fills whatever is missing or needed. John enjoys motorcycling, photography, and fishing when there is time remaining. John’s song is When I Get Carried Away

Virgil Hager

Virgil works at Worthington Industries and has his own business in Sunbury, Ohio, Virgil‘s Jerky Plus. His wife Nancy assists by playing the piano and acting as our critic. Virgil is our techy, our sound man and usually sings tenor or lead. Virgil and Denny began singing in quartets ten years ago. Virgil’s song is Sinner Saved By Grace.

Dennis Hager

Pastor Denny is an ordained minister and enjoys singing for the Lord. This past spring in 2006, after being asked several times, went to work with his son Andrew doing remodeling work. Actually an old family name "Denbrook". His wife, Dee, often accompanies the group and has been very helpful in selecting our wardrobe. When not too busy, Dennis enjoys woodworking and helping the needs of his five children. Dennis usually sings bass, but also sings lead! Dennis’s song is Gonna Rise.

THE STEVENS FAMILY

• "Singing in Harmony...Sharing a Heritage" •

The Stevens Family, from Warren, Ohio, has been traveling in music ministry since 1985. Rich, Tami and Erin effectively minister the gospel to people of all ages through a variety of musical styles. They have completed many recordings, which showcase their creative songwriting abilities. They have written songs that have been recorded by artists such as Greater Vision, The Whisnants and The Inspirations. They have been honored to share the platform with respected groups such as The Couriers, Karen Peck & New River, The Whisnants, Triumphant Quartet, Brian Free & Assurance, The Mark Trammell Quartet and The Talley Trio. The Stevens Family has had opportunities to share their ministry in more than 2500 concerts in 34 states, Ontario and Quebec, Canada, as well as the West Indies and England. Each year they travel thousands of miles, crossing many denominational lines. The Stevens Family has a special message and an apparent sense of direction in their ministry. Their music could best be described as Christ-centered and family-oriented. The purpose of their ministry is to offer encouragement and hope through the message of God’s Word in song.

RICH

Being raised a pastor’s son, Rich was greatly involved in music ministry at his home church from a very young age. Rich is a talented singer, keyboardist and bass player. He is also a gifted arranger and producer. Rich has owned and operated Rich Sound Recording Studio since 1989. In addition to producing recordings for his family, he has also worked with a variety of recording artists, as well as writing and producing jingles for radio and television. Rich is a graduate of Central Bible College in Springfield, Missouri.

TAMI

Tami began formal studies in classical piano and voice at the age of six, and continued her training through college. She is a graduate of Central Bible College in Springfield, Missouri. Tami was the soloist for two years with Revivaltime, an international radio broadcast heard on over 600 stations weekly. Tami is an accomplished vocalist, pianist, flutist, and a gifted speaker.

ERIN

Rich and Tami’s teenage daughter, Erin, is a vital part of this ministry team. There's nothing quite like family harmony, and Erin's strong voice blends with her parents to create that signature trio sound that is becoming a hallmark of their concerts. And when Erin steps forward on a solo, her confidence, passion for ministry and her love for Christ is apparent in every note! Erin truly completes The Stevens Family and is a favorite with listeners of all ages!