CRESTVIEW — Mark English, Lifepoint Church's regular pastor, is taking March 2 off and letting Christian recording artist Jeff Deyo fill in.
"He will be performing and delivering a message at both services that morning," Jason Hall, the church's worship minister said.
Deyo, a Minnesota native, plans to deliver a service that will inspire and help others better connect with their faith.
"Most of the time, the things I share come straight from the Bible and are meant to help people open their eyes to how amazing God is," he said. "I believe if they can really begin to see him for who he is, they will surrender that much more of their lives to him."
Deyo performs Gospel music at churches and worship events across the country, but many people may recognize him as the contemporary Christian band Sonicflood's first lead singer.
Deyo's contributions helped Sonicflood win a Dove award for the best praise and worship album in 2000. "Sonicpraise," the band's second album, earned a Grammy nomination for best Gospel rock album.
Deyo left the band in 2000 and released several solo worship albums with hits like "More Love, More Power" and "Bless the Lord." "Moving Mountains," his fifth worship album, debuted in 2012.
As for the future, Deyo plans to reach others through a different medium.
"I currently don't have anything in the works yet, but I imagine I will record again in a couple years," he said. "Honestly, the next thing you will probably see from me is a few books. I have a huge passion to write."
Deyo, a married father of four children, also spiritually mentors and instructs musical talents with the Pure Worship Institute. The annual conference allows Christian musicians to receive the training necessary to be effective spiritual leaders. The faith-based North Central University in Minnesota, where Deyo works as a worship arts specialist professor, sponsors PWI.
Deyo said he hopes his work helps people achieve one mission.
"… (It's) all designed to help connect with, exalt and love their savior," he said.
WANT TO GO?
WHAT: Jeff Deyo at Lifepoint Church
WHEN: 8:30 and 11 a.m. services on March 2
WHERE: Lifepoint Church at 400 South Ferdon Blvd., Crestview
EmailNews Bulletin Staff Writer Matthew Brown, follow him on Twitteror call 850-682-6524.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Ex-Sonicflood member to lead worship at Lifepoint Church March 2