Music and Worship Coordinator Carol Cabaniss recently celebrated her 10-year anniversary as a member of the Wilshire staff. “I’ve always enjoyed the work and enjoyed the people,” Carol said. “Wilshire is a place I like coming to each day.”
One of Carol’s primary responsibilities is enlisting church members to lead in worship each week. As part of this process, she not only communicates logistics — where to be and when — but also gathers information used for the bios printed in the worship folder. “We often use newer members in worship,” Carol said, “and I love that my job helps me meet them and get to know them.”
Carol became a member of Wilshire in 1992. She and her husband, Kevin, are parents to three young adults, Peyton, Tanner and Trace.
Carol joined the Wilshire staff in 2015, serving first in administrative roles in education and spiritual formation. In 2023, she transitioned to the music office. “I enjoyed my years in education ministry,” she said, “but I was ready for something a little bit new, and I felt I had skills that would transfer well to supporting music ministry.”
She moved into her current role shortly before Ariel Merivil was called as minister of music. “I knew someone new was coming,” Carol said, “and I thought it would be exciting to be in on a new era from the beginning and help the new music minister as they got started.”
Ariel said, “Carol’s institutional experience is an asset to all we do in ministry together. Thanks to her forethought, efficiency, humility and care, music ministry and worship at Wilshire is a well-oiled part of our shared work. She is a tireless contributor to our team, and we are so grateful to work alongside such a kind and patient servant leader.”
In addition to enlisting worship leaders, Carol helps make sure all printed elements of the service are in place and correct — from Scripture readings to song lyrics to copyright information. Each Friday, she oversees the in-house printing of the main worship folder and the order of worship for the 9 a.m. service.
She also facilitates flower dedications, including Advent poinsettias and Easter lilies; orders printed music; maintains the music library; supports all music groups, including Children’s Choir; works with facilities staff to make sure the Sanctuary is set up correctly and ready for worship; supports Faith in 3D; and coordinates Lord’s Supper volunteers.
In 2025, Carol took over as funeral and Columbarium coordinator, working with families and ministers to plan services and nail down logistics. “It is a privilege to support families during times of great loss,” Carol said. “I try to provide a steady hand and a compassionate presence.”