Music Ministry: Q&A with Chuck King

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May 07, 2026

What’s your musical background?

I sang and played an instrument through high school and college, where I majored in sacred music (Moody), trombone performance (DePaul), and music history (Northwestern). I have been involved in church music, full and part time, for over forty years. Since 2013, I have taught music subjects at the collegiate level. 

What’s your philosophy of music ministry?

How much space did you say we have?! 

As succinctly as possible: Music in the church is meant to be a ministry of the Word of God. Probably the best way I can express it is to point to three biblical passages: Ephesians 5:18b-20 with Colossians 3:16-17 (they are a mutually informing set of texts) and 1 Chronicles 25:1-8 (reinforcing music as a ministry of the Word, and the importance of skill, education, and training).

How did you end up as Music Director at NCC?

I was invited to consider this position during an inconvenient time in my life; and after a decade of teaching, I had no particular sense of call to return to a church position. But the search committee gave me time and space—and like me, they continued to pray—until I felt I had to have the conversations. It was then that the Spirit began to nudge my affections and remind me of the heart of my vocational calling.

What has been your biggest surprise here? Your biggest joy?

My biggest surprise is probably that I have experienced genuine joy in returning to this work here. Surprises: the number of able and willing musicians here at New Covenant. Joys: the fellowship and hospitality I witness in the congregation.

What are your goals here?

Not to be cliched or trite, but my goal is to be faithful to my calling for as long as the Lord has me here. A very practical goal is to find someone younger than I who shares my calling and who can grow and step into my role.

How could someone get involved in the music ministry here? What would that look like?

Anyone interested in serving in the music ministry may contact me at any time. I’d love to have those conversations (in person, by email, on the phone) and discover a good fit for you. Maybe you have a musical gift, talent, or instrument, but haven’t seen how it could fit here—talk to me about it! 

Anything else we should know?

 People should know my wife, Karen! We have been married fifty years, have three grown sons, and we raise puppies who are candidates as future service dogs. 

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