To Be a Minstrel: A Biblically-Based Perspective of the Church Musician, Volume I is an exploration, based on the Scriptures, of what God has to say, what he intended, and what he expects for church music ministry. It boldly tackles the frustration often associated with attempting to implement a successful music ministry that is relevant and rewarding. It also redefines the idyllic perception of what a congregant sees during Sunday-morning services, which does not always reflect what happens behind the scenes. It is the author's intent to usher the average church into the joy of a successful church music ministry by fearlessly confronting a controversial, almost taboo, issue that is far-too-often avoided. Whether you are a pastor, a church musician or a worshiper who regularly attends church, there are incredible insights awaiting you within these pages! Darren E. Butler Sr., an ordained minister, is the founding pastor of The International Good News Fellowship, Inc., on Long Island in New York. Pastor Butler has more than 28 years of experience in music ministry, with seven of those years serving concurrently as a pastor. In that time, he has had vast exposure to and experience with multiple church organizational formats and philosophies. He is currently pursuing a Masters of Theology degree at Alliance Theological Seminary in New York City. Musically, Pastor Butler is an accomplished producer, songwriter (with a catalog of more than 175 songs), arranger, vocalist and instrumentalist, who has played and collaborated with a "Who's Who" in gospel music. He has been married since 1989 to Patricia Butler. The couple has four children - Qiana (Dameon), Adara, Kimberly, and Darren Jr.; and two grandchildren - Isaiah and Jordan. This book is Pastor Butler's debut as an author.