Fresh Wind, a new musical ensemble at Multnomah, proclaims a message of spiritual renewal through music. Steve Bjork, student leader of Fresh Wind and music minister at Rockwood Church of God, said, "The main purpose of the group is to bring a message of renewal of the heart, soul and mind."

Although Fresh Wind is primarily a musical group, it will also incorporate drama to present its message.

The eight students who compose Fresh Wind all play an instrument and sing. The instruments include piano, acoustic guitar, electric bass, drums and synthesizer. This gives Bjork a wide variety of music from which to choose, ranging from a cappella to instrumental. The majority of Fresh Wind's music is contemporary Christian songs.

Freshman Cameron Nicolson plays bass and sings baritone in Fresh Wind. He said he doesn't want Fresh Wind to be thought of as just another Destiny. Fresh Wind has an entirely different idea behind it, Nicolson said. Fresh Wind's main focus is on worship.

Bjork and Miriam Gibby, music department chair, held auditions for Fresh Wind at the beginning of the semester. They looked for students with a commitment to ministry, not just performance; a disciplined life; and musical versatility. Mrs. Gibby said, "We were looking for musicians who want to learn and grow."

Fresh Wind is the third student-led music group at Multnomah in the last three years. None of the groups lasted more than a year. Fresh Wind, however, will be different from the others, Bjork said. Because the group is not Bjork's senior practicum, he plans to work with it even after he graduates, should it continue. He said his prayer is that the group will grow strong in unity and continue for many years.

Bjork came to Multnomah five years ago to become a youth pastor. A year later, at Mrs. Gibby's suggestion, he applied for the position of music minister at Rockwood Church of God, a position he has held for more than three years. He said he never would have become interested in music ministry without Mrs. Gibby's encouragement.

The name "Fresh Wind" came from a book by Jim Cymbala titled "Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire," that addresses the importance of prayer. The purpose of the ensemble, Mrs. Gibby said, "is to encouraged Christians to get on fire for God."