Song Evangelist and Musicians

Brian Arner, Song Evangelist

Since beginning his full-time ministry twenty-nine years ago, Brian has completed 8 solo recordings including arrangements produced and orchestrated by seven-time Grammy nominee Mr. Lari Goss. These recordings minister to the hearts and souls of all who hear them and have been played across the country on numerous radio stations.

Although Brian is a skilled musician, he is first and foremost a music minister. He lives what he sings, and all that he sings is soul stirring and spiritually stirring.

 

Hank Oplinger, Pianist

Oplinger-HankHank Oplinger is the Minister of Worship and Music at St. Matthew Church in Belleville, Ill. He has been at St. Matthew for more than 20 years where he leads an extensive music program, including producing musical dramas in the Christmas and Easter seasons. More than 300 people participate in the St. Matthew music ministry under Hank’s direction. He also teaches a Sunday School Class. Before coming to Belleville, he served in music and youth ministries in Waycross, Ga.; Wichita, Kan.; and Nashville, Tenn. He grew up in and continues to embrace the Wesleyan Holiness teachings.

Carrie Crago, Organist

Carrie_Crago_275x175Carrie Crago currently serves as a staff pianist at St. Matthew Church, Belleville, Ill., directs the handbell choir, and assists in various areas of the music ministry. She previously served as Organist and Education/Music Assistant at St. Matthew from 1984 to 1988. From 1989-2009 she served as the Director of Music Ministry and organist at Collinsville UMC and Troy UMC. Carrie retired as K-5 music teacher in O’Fallon School District #90 after 30 years.

In 2018, Carrie was awarded educator of the year for the state of Illinois by the O’Fallon VFW and has ignited and fostered a love for music in the lives of thousands of children.