About Us

MINISTRY IN ACTION

Putting his philosophy into action, he often dedicates a portion of choir rehearsal to sharing prayer requests, special verses, and testimonies that relate to the message in the music. Choir members are reminded they are the leaders of worship and must believe what they are singing in order to allow those listening to hear the message. David feels, "Choir is not simply a training ground for music; it is a place of nourishment for growing believers who are encouraged by one another as we connect together."

David's arrival has also brought a new expanded vision of Worship ministries. His work ethic and his staff have kept him afloat as he adapts to the fast-paced schedule of his busy week. Sherry Thompson, David's secretary, is excited about David's vision and a "new infusion of energy" he has brought to the ministry. She says, "He is a great motivator, and I have seen more people get on board to be a part of the work and vision he has brought. He connects with the needs and brings people along musically." In addition, she says he has a great sense humor and is lots of fun to work with.

The Loftis family has been a welcome addition to Colonial, and their passion for ministry is obvious. The children Jessie, J. David, and Josiah, are very active in various ministries as well, singing in choir, playing in the orchestra, etc. David loves ministering with his family, "They are so much fun to be with and have developed and incredible 'can do' flexibility for whatever God throws our way."

David claims they are "addicted to the ministry of the Lord" and view service as a privilege. Although there has been some discussion about opening a "Loftis Cafe," specializing in David's killer omelets and Josiah's healthy shakes, David admits that they couldn't imagine doing anything but serving God's people and connecting people with Christ.

MAKING CONNECTIONS

Sitting in church on August 3, 2003 many in the congregation waited anxiously, curious to meet the new worship pastor, wondering how he would connect with the congregation. "What was his desired style of music? Was he truly a "pastor," or did he just lead the music?"

The anticipated moment finally arrived as the service began and a man with a teal guitar stepped onto the stage. Many wondered, "Surely he's not the worship pastor-he must be an orchestra member." However, it was then that David Loftis, the antithesis of the traditional "song leader," began his ministry of connecting Colonial with Christ through worship.

David's passion for choral ministry began many years ago when his family left their home in Lexington, NC and moved to the mission field of Jamaica when he was seven years old. God used this special time in David's life to connect with him, and plant seeds that would develop into his future ministry.

Outgoing and enthusiastic, David enjoyed his childhood singing in children's choirs, leading singing in Sunday school and passing out hymnals. However, as he grew physically, he matured musically. He became an important contribution to his parents' ministry as he taught and led children's church classes and eventually led choirs of his own and ministered in his father's pulpit as worship leader and occasional preacher.

After completing high school and spending 18 months in Australia with his missionary parents, David headed to Tennessee Temple University. It was there his doctrinal foundations were established and ministry talents were developed as he traveled with music groups representing the school.

One freshman year highlight that shaped David's future was a special young woman on campus. He says he was "smitten by her blue eyes and southern charm (which [he] later learned was a disguised Southern California wit and sensibility." He says he chased her until their sophomore year, when Carol "caught him." They found a special connection in their love of music and ministry as they both came from 2nd generation ministry families.

Another highlight of his college years occurred during his junior year at TTU when David "felt God's hand drawing [him] to ministry intentionally." It was a call that confirmed his previous desire to dedicate his life in service to God.

In 1983, David graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Bible, minor in Music: vocal performance and later completed his Master of Religious Education at Temple Baptist Seminary. Equipped with a first-hand view of missions, a strong biblical education, and the love of his life, David followed his calling in worship ministry and served 21 years in Georgia and Wisconsin before coming home to North Carolina.

Now, after three years of service at Colonial, David's ministry as a pastor is evident to all. David cites Colossians 3 as his focal point for Christian fellowship, "Let the Word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms, hymns & spiritual songs; singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God." It is his desire to assist the unification of a "body of believers who are devoted to worshipping God personally and celebrating Him together wholeheartedly before a watching world.with the desire that many will put their trust in the Lord."