In a special business meeting after worship last Sunday, Dec. 17, the members of Wilshire voted to call Ariel Merivil as our next minister of music. We anticipate a mid-February start for Ariel, who will move to Dallas from Lincoln, Nebraska, where he has served First-Plymouth Congregational Church as associate minister of music since 2017.
“What a blessing it was to be with Wilshire last weekend,” Ariel said. “I feel so grateful to have met so many wonderful members and share in worship alongside the congregation! God is moving at Wilshire, and I am looking forward to the deep work in ministry we have together.”
The vote was the culmination of a Call Weekend during which Ariel participated in three open meet and greet sessions, rehearsed with Sanctuary Choir and met with staff and the Minister of Music Search Committee. During worship, Ariel sang a solo, led congregational singing and directed Sanctuary Choir.
The Search Committee said in a statement, “We are grateful for God’s leadership through this process and want to thank the congregation for your support, prayers and patience during the past eight months. Please continue to pray for Ariel as he leaves Lincoln and moves to Dallas. Exciting days are ahead for Wilshire!”