The following letter to the editor of the Catholic Exponent was published in the November 4, 2005 issue.
Reprinted with permission of the author of the letter.

Power of Praise

To the editor:
The Power of Praise band is one of the most wonderful treasures to be found in the Diocese of Youngstown (and possibly one of its best-kept secrets!).

Regina Coeli Church in Alliance had the pleasure of hosting this dynamic musical group for a recent Prayerformance, a two-hour concert of contemporary praise and worship music. The group performs free of charge. This is their ministry (www.popministry.com) and its all for the Lord.

I first read about the Power of Praise last February in the Exponent and was interested in the prospect of combining fellowship and praise music in a parish event. In the process of organizing a concert, we experienced Hurricane Katrina and the group proposed doing the performance as a Katrina Relief Benefit. Then came Hurricane Rita, followed by Stan, the earthquake in South Asia and the loss of Alliance resident Lance Cpl. Daniel McVicker in Iraq. The concert became a benefit with a much greater need and motivation. As the Power of Praise sang Healing Rain, a free-will offering of $1,037 was collected for Catholic Charities Hurricane Disaster Relief.

The presence of the Holy Spirit was felt throughout the entire Prayerformance but was especially strong when the group sang I Can Only Imagine in tribute to fallen Marine McVicker. These musicians are truly blessed in their ministry and they, in turn, are a true blessing to all who have the privilege of hearing them. Every parish in the diocese should allow itself the opportunity to experience the Power of Praise. Their music will uplift you and their dedication to our Lord will inspire you.

Pati Greiner
Regina Coeli Parish, Alliance