Nearly 30 years ago, staff members at Portland Adventist Academy began noticing a troubling pattern: some students felt disconnected from their local churches. While present in the pews, many didn’t feel seen, needed or confident that they had something meaningful to offer.
PAA educators asked an important question: What if students didn’t just attend church, but helped lead it?
That question sparked a vision — one rooted in helping students find a sense of belonging, relevance and ownership in their faith communities. Led by Tim Ellis, with the help of Bob Johnson, a music studio was built on campus. For more than 20 years, Ellis taught students not only how to play guitar, but also how to perform, collaborate and lead worship with confidence and purpose. Students also learned the behind-the-scenes skills of sound, production and technical support — roles just as vital to worship as those on stage.
From the beginning, the goal was never simply growing musical skill. PAA wanted students to understand why they lead worship and how their gifts can point others to Christ. Learning an instrument was the starting point; learning to serve was the heart of the program.
The results have been powerful. Over the years, countless students have discovered their place in church life — developing into skilled worship leaders, singing, playing instruments and serving on production teams in their local congregations. That early vision has become a legacy. Following Ellis’ passing 10 years ago, Ellis’ former students stepped forward to continue mentoring and teaching another generation, modeling faithfulness, service and leadership.
Today, PAA has 10 student praise teams that rotate leading worship during chapels and vespers. Each service is an opportunity for students to grow musically, spiritually and personally. Walk into a Portland area church on Sabbath, and chances are you’ll find a PAA student or alumnus singing, playing, running sound or serving faithfully behind the scenes.
At PAA, education goes beyond academics. The mission includes helping students discover their gifts, deepen their faith and actively engage in their churches — both now and long after graduation. By empowering students to lead worship, PAA is partnering with churches to help shape confident young leaders who know they belong, have something to contribute and are ready to serve wherever God calls them.
PAA students regularly help lead church services in the Portland area.
Students learn how their gifts can point others to Christ.
