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Looking back over the years, it is truly amazing to see how the hand of God was working all the time in three young people's lives to one day bring about a music ministry which He would use to spread His Word. God gave these three children Godly parents who made sure their kids were in church and learned about Him. From early on God taught these kids that all praise and honor is due the Lord and that none of us here on earth deserve any praise. Who would have thought that God would use that very message to one day provide a name for a new music ministry called Vertical Praise?
It all began nearly twenty years ago, when God brought Tony and his family into the church where Eddie and his family served. Eddie was active in the youth program there and Tony soon got involved and they both enjoyed being a part of such a vibrant youth group. They also enjoyed singing in the youth, young adult and adult choirs as they grew up serving the Lord. However, in time, God moved Eddie and his family from that church to another body of believers across town.
While some may have questioned why God moved Eddie's family from that church body, it is clear that God knew exactly what He was doing. It was at Eddie's new church that he met a really cute young lady, Holly, who would one day become his best friend and soulmate. Holly has always loved to sing, so this match was perfect for both of them because God knew that Vertical Praise was in their future.
In time God also brought Tony and his family to the same church where Holly and Eddie were serving the Lord, now as husband and wife. At the same time, Tony began singing with another music ensemble ministry, Together Ministries. Eventually Holly and Eddie were invited to join Together Ministries. This marked the first time that Holly, Eddie and Tony had sung together in a small group.
Then, in the spring of 2001 while attending a gospel concert, Holly, Eddie and Tony began to feel God calling them to sing as a trio in church. So, they practiced a few songs and sang their first song as a trio in church that summer. In practicing together and praying about the trio, it quickly became apparent that God was calling them out of the larger group to form a trio to begin singing in area churches.
Thus, Vertical Praise was born. God gave them the name, helped them learn some music to get started and He began opening doors around the community for Vertical Praise to minister and God continues to bless them. The members of Vertical Praise are the first to tell you that all the praise, honor and glory goes to the Lord. All praise goes vertical!
