Members and staff of Ward Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Northville, MI have recently welcomed Billy Petty as their new Director of Worship. Ward is home to a forward-thinking congregation of more than 2,600 members who have a shared passion for the Lord and a willingness to serve joyfully. The church culture has been shaped by an expression of theology based in the mainstream of evangelical tradition (EPC) blended with a commitment to innovation and multi-generational ministry.
For nearly 20 years, Billy Petty has been directing worship and music ministry programs in churches and universities across the eastern United States. In his most recent role as Chair of Worship Ministry Leadership at the National Praise and Worship Institute in Nashville, Billy worked as a teacher, mentor and curriculum director for future worship leaders.
Billy is a talented vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and conductor with a mixture of classical and modern musical gifts, wonderfully suited to reach the members of Ward’s generationally diverse congregation. Using his administrative experience in concert with his musical skills, Billy is able run an effective ministry that delivers dynamic Christ-exalting worship experiences week after week.
“I believe that whether it is through putting Him first, delighting in Him, singing to Him or praising and thanking Him, something must be communicated to God,” said Billy. “He has done something that has caused us to respond to Him and as Director of Worship, it is my hope to inspire God followers to respond to Him in these and other creative ways.”
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Ward Evangelical Presbyterian Church, located just 30 miles from Detroit in Northville, MI is home to a forward-thinking congregation with a rich denominational heritage that has roots as far back as 1842. The church culture has been shaped by an expression of theology based in the mainstream of evangelical tradition (EPC) blended with a commitment to innovation and multi-generational ministry. With an average weekly worship attendance of more than 2,000 (more than ¾ of its members) and a participation of well over half of the congregation in some kind of small group learning experience, Ward is at a very healthy point in its history and it poised for substantial growth over the next few years. For more information, please visit the Church’s website.