Pursuit Band members give to campers, but also receive much in return
Published: July 14, 2025
Author: Dave Bell
Eight Greenville University students are discovering this summer the truth of Jesus’ statement that “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
As members of the GU Pursuit Band, they spend much of their time leading worship music at seven weeklong church camps throughout the Midwest. It’s a heady experience for young musicians, and it’s easy to bask in that newfound spotlight.
However, band members say that sharing Christ-centered music and being available to minister to those young campers is more important than any accolades they might receive for their musical talents.
“This experience is teaching me to live my life on mission for Christ,” said Kinsley Shultz, a vocalist for the band. “I’m learning to see people the way Jesus would, even when that is uncomfortable.”
Likewise, guitarist and vocalist Aaron Taflinger has experienced the impact of connecting with campers when he’s not in the spotlight.
Eric Bohm on bass.
“The Lord has shown me the importance of the small moments in ministry,” Taflinger said. “I used to think that the most impactful ministry happens when I’m on stage. But this summer, the most meaningful moments have been sitting in a cabin with a camper who’s struggling. I listen, and then I point them to what the Bible says about their situation. Those moments have meant a lot to them, and they inspire me as I minister on stage.”
Those ministry opportunities are especially meaningful in a camp setting, and Pursuit Band tour manager Nathaniel Kriebel urged band members to be prepared to respond.
“Every year, as we send out our Pursuit Band, I see our students take ownership of their faith, grow in spiritual leadership, wrestle with big questions, and lean into seeking God together,” said Kriebel, tour manager for the band. “As they minister, I encourage them to consider Jesus’ words in John 15:5, where he talks about the rewards of abiding in him: ‘I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.’”
This year’s tour started on June 1 and runs through July 25. The band will lead music at camps in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Missouri.
The band members (and the instruments they play) are: Eric Bohm, bass; Emma Boyd, piano; Wyatt Emken, percussion; Mason Garner, acoustic guitar and vocals; Ella Hudspath, vocals; Tessa Moon, audio engineer; Kinsley Shultz, vocals; and Aaron Taflinger, electric guitar and vocals. Hudspath and Taflinger serve as team leaders.
Nathaniel Kriebel, Pursuit Band tour manager.
“Many members of the Pursuit Band are music or worship arts majors,” Kriebel noted. “Playing with a band like this for a summer often leads to noticeable musical growth. However, another benefit is the way they bond over their shared experiences. Often, lifelong friendships are formed as they serve God together.”
Although band members do gain valuable musical experience, Kriebel encourages them to prioritize creating a meaningful worship atmosphere for campers.
“Primarily, we’re there to point them to Jesus through worship music,” he said, “but we also are available to discuss other life and faith issues. Often, we serve as ambassadors for GU for those interested in attending a Christian university.”
Once the summer tour ends, many band members will return to the GU campus to lead worship at The Wednesday Experience chapels and other events during the upcoming academic year.
But the lessons learned on this summer’s tour will endure. “Many of the song lyrics have new weight, new meaning for me,” said vocalist Ella Hudspath. “I’ve seen those words touch campers, and I’ve felt them touch me, too.”
The 2025 Pursuit Band includes Eric Bohm (bass), Emma Boyd (piano), Wyatt Emken (percussion), Mason Garner (acoustic guitar and vocals), Ella Hudspath (vocals), Tessa Moon (audio engineer), Kinsley Shultz (vocals), and Aaron Taflinger (electric guitar and vocals). Hudspath and Taflinger also serve as team leaders.
