Welcome of the Cadets / Candidates Weekend 2023 / Unbound and NYSB Ensemble
An ensemble from the NYSB , along with Unbound , had the opportunity to minister through music at the combined Welcome of the Cadets ( Friday night ) and Candidate ’ s Seminar ( Saturday / Sunday ) event . It was a blessing for both groups to participate in worship at these significant events .
For Unbound , preparation began early on Friday morning in the CFOT band room . From the outset , it was evident that each member of the group was committed to making the event a meaningful experience . The rehearsals went smoothly , with most of the songs practiced without major challenges . Afterward , the team moved to Watson Gym for setup , where Felipe Concha had already prepared much of the monitoring equipment and audio setup . Everything was in place by lunchtime , allowing the group to focus on soundcheck and rehearsal on stage . Using their own monitoring equipment helped streamline this process , allowing the two hours available for rehearsal to focus on polishing tracks and other details .
Later that evening , the NYSB ensemble joined the group , providing meaningful preliminary music , accompanying a congregational song , and joyfully marching in the new cadets . They also performed a special item , “ Above All ” by Andrew Mackereth .
Unbound ’ s flexibility throughout the event was greatly appreciated . Their first collaboration was with the Cadets ’ Choir , performing “ For Your Mission ” by David LaBossiere , which was well-received . Following other program items , Unbound led worship with “ Who You Say I Am ” and “ Living Hope ,” with Olivia Renkel providing powerful vocals . The congregation responded enthusiastically , with many left wanting more . During the response time after the message , Eli Morgan and Olivia Renkel led “ This Is My Desire ” and “ The Power of Your Love ,” offering a varied and inclusive worship experience .
On Saturday night , Unbound performed before and after Rich Swingle ’ s “ Beyond The Chariots .” Before his performance , they sang “ What He ’ s Done ” and “ Honey In The Rock ,” both making their debut at this event . The audience responded well , despite the songs being new . After Swingle ’ s performance , the group sang “ Way Maker ” and “ My Testimony .” Felipe led a moving time of prayer during “ Way Maker ,” which created a deeply spiritual atmosphere in the room .
Sunday ’ s service saw another collaboration with MOVE during the prelude , performing “ Praise ,” a song quickly becoming a favorite in the Eastern Territory . MOVE brought a lively energy , supported by a horn section featuring Major Stewart Dalrymple , Lt . Colonel Kathleen Steele , and Major Keith Maynor . Unbound also accompanied Commissioner
Lorraine Bamford for “ To God Be The Glory .” Despite some last-minute adjustments during soundcheck , the final performance was wellexecuted , thanks in part to Carol Jaudes ’ input .
Following this , Unbound led worship with the songs “ Mourning to Dancing ” and “ Living in the Overflow .” These groovy , upbeat selections evoked a different style of worship , which Major Rohan Gage noted brought back fond memories of worship styles from his youth . The weekend concluded with a collaboration with MOVE for the song “ Send Me ,” a fitting piece for the event ’ s theme of commitment . During the Time of Commitment , Unbound supported Commissioner William Bamford by performing “ God Will Make a Way ” ( beautifully sung by Gavin Whitehouse ), “ I Surrender ,” and “ He Is Able .”
It was a privilege for Unbound to serve the Lord and the Territory in this capacity once again , leading worship at such important events .
Dr . Major Keith Maynor , Assistant Training Principal for Administration , reflected on the significance of Unbound ’ s involvement :
“ Unbound was a God-send for us . The Territorial Candidates Seminar is a mission-critical event , not just for the CFOT but also for the health of the Territory . In years past , the CFOT would assume the responsibility of providing worship for each meeting . This essential role is an opportunity for the cadets , but it is also incredibly taxing on their time and attention . By having Unbound provide this ministry , it frees the CFOT to concentrate on other elements — such as our attention to the cadets ’ testimony , ministry engagement , and hospitality needs . Having Unbound lead worship for these events is a unique strength for the territory , and it is a spiritual gift to the CFOT and every delegate .”
Major Sheila Gage , Candidates Secretary , echoed these sentiments , saying :
“ UNBOUND delivered an awesome , spirit-filled worship experience .”
4 NYSB BULLETIN FALL 2024
NYSB . ORG