Jennifer Wiley2

Jennifer Wiley is the leader of Abundant Life’s band (UN)COMMON. We sat down with her to find out a little more about the band and what goes on in the music ministry department! Check out our question and answer section with Jen and then let us know what you think!

Q: Jen, for obvious reasons, what’s it like being the leader of (UN)COMMON?

It has been one tremendous ride after another! I love this team. They are incredible at their craft and love God passionately. As the leader of UNCOMMON I am both honored an humbled at the same time. To be entrusted with such a tremendous group of people is truly a privilege. I had no idea I would be in this position. I thought it was my “resting” season! God’s funny that way isn’t He?

Q: What inspired you to become a praise team leader?

Probably more ‘who’. I was drawn more to those that ministered, rather than just simply led a song. Anyone could do that. I wanted to go somewhere in a service that wasn’t the norm. Past the three fast songs, two slow, the special during the offering, etc. I wanted God to show up! He began leading me during my private worship time and it started overflowing into the song sets. A song would be birthed right in the middle of praise and worship, and I was just the frequency being used to transfer the audio. He is so awesome. I wouldn’t trade anything for the presence of God!

Q: How many members make up the team; and what’s it like during practice?

We have 20 of the best singers and musicians who rotate on a weekly basis. Rehersals can be zany and crazy at times, but also precious and intimate. Leading the team from a keyboard yields favorable opportunities! I have to say, we are most blessed at Abundant Life!

Q: What’s your favorite worship song and why?

That’s so not fair! I love them all but it changes from season to season. Presently, I have two fav’s that I continuously mutter over each day. One is Awesome Wonder by Trent Cory; (Because God IS truly awesome and I would not be where I am without Him). The other is Wrap Me In Your Arms by Martha Munizzi. There are just those times when we need to be reminded we’re not alone and He is right there to love on us and reassure us that everything is going to be okay!

Q: How did you know God had called you to lead worship?

Pieces of the puzzle just began to fall into place. I began playing keys for teams in various churches, singing harmony, some solos, stepped out leading worship and before I knew it, God opened “effectual doors” of opportunity that I began to walk through and here I am!