Song of the Soul

Norm Mathews grew up mostly in Pentacostal churches, but it was really as an adult that this became his chosen religious practice. He's rededicated his life to Christ at times when he faced real challenges to his heart, like when he became an over-the-road trucker or when his 2nd daughter was on the verge of death. He is a devoted student of the Bible, trying to discern God's call for his life.

Greg Farley started learning guitar around 10, and came back to it after several other instruments. Raised Catholic, he sought a better fitting spiritual home, studied with Jehovah's Witnesses, eventually settling, more-or-less, in charismatic Christian circles. His Song of the Soul is comprised of original compositions by Greg, from his new CD called For All To See.

Chris Powell started piano lessons when 6 years old and added trombone to his repertoire in high school, and appreciates music of all stripes but has a special passion for classical music. Chris is a member of the First Baptist Church in Eau Claire, though he was raised without much exposure to organized religion.

Sandra Helpsmeet was raised Presbyterian in the Amana Colonies of central Iowa, becoming a Quaker in her 30's. Music, singing, Lake Superior, canoeing, mediative circle dance and Yoga are just a few of the passions in her life.

Josh Polich was raised ELCA Lutheran where he took particular joy in being part of the choir. With adulthood he was led to read up on Eastern religions, eventually finding real resonance with Hindu chanting. At Unity Christ Center in Eau Claire he found a spiritual home and community of acceptance for his practices and a source of joy and support. He leads chanting there on Tuesday evenings at 8 pm.

Sarah Pederson shared her first Song of the Soul with us just over 4 months ago, but her spiritual life has been unfolding at an amazing clip in the interim. Since that first Song of the Soul she's found a soul mate, become engaged to be married, and discovered a deep, disciplined and joyful addition to her spiritual practice.

Michael Neely lives in Canberra, the federal capital city of Australia. His family hosted me as I traveled with a Quaker group called the Friendly FolkDancers and Michael agreed, on the spur of the moment to share the music that speaks of his soul and talk about his life as an Australian, Catholic-raised, now attending Quaker meeting.

Jane Wolf in the proprieter of Silver Feather, a shop that sells Native American jewelry, music, crafts and products in downtown Eau Claire. Jane was raised Lutheran, was married as a Catholic, becoming involved with Native American and other Earth-based spirituality after her divorce. She currently attends Unity Christ Center in Eau Claire.

Conner Lynch is a senior at Eau Claire Memorial High School with a passion for punk rock music, and a dedication to living out his values - things like his opposition to war and violence, and his personal commitment to respecting his own body and well-being.

Jennifer Eddy is an Eau Claire physician with a love of things French, including the language and the country. She and her husband were married there and own a small residence in the south of France. Jennifer was raised to be a rationalist but lived out the maxim that kids tend to react in opposition to their parents. She was a philosophy major and sought a spiritual home in many places, including the Taizé community of France, with Quakers, and with the Episcopal church.