Members of the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection, young and old, should feel a new energy this fall as the church welcomes two new staff members.
David Hottel and Dina Edwards, both having worked with Father Don Duford in the past, hope their talents add to the worship experience.
Hottel, hired as Minister of Music, held a similar position at St. David’s Episcopal Church in Southfield, Michigan.
‘He’s a professional in every since of the word. He brings a lot of education and experience,? said Father Duford of the Church of the Resurrection.
Hottel began playing music at church in high school to earn spending money. He earned a bachelor’s degree in English with a music minor from Hanover College in Indiana. Although Hottel was an American Baptist, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church hired Hottel out of college to play music there. Hottel found the church to his liking and converted, eventually spending 31 years at St. Paul’s.
As Minister of Music, Hottel picks out hymns and plays either the piano or electric organ as the congregation sings. Hottel hopes to have a full-time adult choir, a kid’s choir and a hand chime choir at the church.
‘A lot of folks think they can’t sing, so the hand chimes give them a chance. As long as you can count to four, you can play them,? said Hottel. ‘I like music with energy and enthusiasm and it shows in the music I pick.?
Dina Edwards brings over 30 years teaching experience to her Director of Children’s Ministries position.
‘She was a teacher before this and will develop strong interesting children’s programs to teach our children,? said Duford.
Edwards spent most of her years as a kindergarten in Taylor, but also taught in Southgate, Centerline, Detroit Public Schools and Lincoln Park.
Besides teaching, Edwards said she held a busy life beyond school, dabbling in local politics. She recalled spending much of her time in positions with the Parks and Rec Commission in West Bloomfield, on the Woodland Review Board, on the board of directors with the League of Woman Voters Oakland Area and several other activities.
Ultimately, Edwards said her teaching experience permeates her philosophy for the children’s ministries position.
‘I believe in hands on Bible study to learn the lessons? I like sensorial learning, the kids will use all their senses to learn the stories,? said Edwards.
Edwards hopes to produce activities, such as a puppet theater, to not only teach Biblical lessons, but make church an even more enjoyable experience.
‘During service, we have to make it delightful and fun, but get the message across. I hope they’ll be eager to come to church and bring a friend,? said Edwards.
The Episcopal Church of the Resurrection is located at 6490 Clarkston Road. For service times, call 248-625-2325.