Greenville University alumni lead worship at Annual Pursuit Retreat
Published: September 19, 2024
Author: Liz Dowell
Greenville, IL — On September 13, Greenville University welcomed back alumni Brian Wells ('21) and Sarah Vu ('22) to lead a special worship event as part of the "Pursuit" ministry, a cornerstone of the university's spiritual life.
Friday, September 13, marked the Annual Pursuit Retreat, where all current Pursuit members gathered for food, fellowship, teaching, and worship led by GU alums who had previously participated in the ministry. The event provided a meaningful connection and reflection time for students in the Pursuit worship bands, faculty, and staff.
Brian Wells, a 2021 graduate with a double major in Worship Arts and Music Industry Studies, reflected on his formative experience with Pursuit while at Greenville University.
“Pursuit was one of the most impactful experiences I had during my four years at Greenville,” said Wells. “The friendships I made, the mentorship I received—especially from Paul Sunderland—and the opportunities to lead worship were all life-changing.”
Wells is serving as worship leader at West Hills Church in St. Louis, MO, where he applies the skills and lessons he learned at Greenville.
He began his journey with Pursuit as a freshman and continued to serve and co-lead the summer touring teams for the following three years. “The Lord used Pursuit in significant ways,” he added, sharing how the experience shaped him spiritually and musically.
Sarah Vu, a 2022 graduate majoring in Music Industry Studies and Worship Arts, also shared her powerful journey with Pursuit. Having initially auditioned for the program by chance, she spent all four years of her college career in the ministry.
“I grew so much during my time in Pursuit,” Vu said. “It wasn’t just about the music; it was about the relationships and the community we built.”
Vu credited Paul Sunderland for helping her realize her calling in worship ministry. “Paul was the first to encourage me and show me that God was calling me to serve in worship,” Vu recalled.
Today, Vu continues to lead worship professionally at Vandalia United Methodist Church, in Vandalia, Illinois, using the skills she honed at Greenville to serve her congregation. She soon leaves for an opportunity to serve at Salem Lutheran in Huston, Texas.
The evening's event, hosted by Greenville University’s Pursuit ministry, featured a time of worship, teaching, reflection, and intentional connection. Attendees enjoyed a meal, followed by music led by Wells and Vu.
“We’re just here to lead songs, think about Jesus, and remember what He’s done for us,” Wells shared before the event. Vu added, “We have a plan, but I’m really praying the Holy Spirit will work in ways we can’t expect. I hope this evening brings rest, silence, and an opportunity to hear from the Lord.”
Greenville University’s Pursuit ministry continues to foster a space for spiritual growth, connection, and worship, with events like these creating lasting memories and deep spiritual impact.
About Greenville University
Greenville University is an accredited Christian liberal arts institution located in Greenville, Illinois. Founded in 1892 and affiliated with the Free Methodist Church, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs to more than 1,000 students. For more information, visit the website.
