rev. mary apicella, pastor
Mary grew up in nearby Marion, NC. Mary is a graduate of Wake Forest University and Boston University School of Theology and graduated magna cum laude from both. An ordained American Baptist pastor, Mary is committed to the work of inclusion, justice, and creating God’s beloved community by following the example of Jesus’ way of ministering: telling stories, asking questions, and embodying God’s love.
Email Mary at mary@providencecongregation.org
Michael Sebastian, music director
Michael Sebastian, originally from Lancaster, PA, he became, at the age of 12 the youngest person ever to join the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra. Following was a successful career in classical music, taking him to perform in some of the world’s most prestigious concert halls and performances with artists such as Bernadette Peters, George Benson, Red Skelton, Johnny Mathis, Paige O’Hara and Smokey Robinson.
After stints on the road performing with a rock band and cruise ships, Michael returned to his true passion: Musical Theatre. He was Resident Music Director of The Golden Apple Dinner Theatre for 8 years followed by 8 years at Florida Studio Theatre and Artistic Director at East Village Cabaret. He was a regular at the two-time Tony Award winning Cincinnati Playhouse, Peterborough Players, and Flat Rock Playhouse.
Michael has worked extensively on new show development with the pre-Broadway runs of “A Tale of Two Cities” at the Asolo Theater in Sarasota and “Wonderland: Alice’s New Musical Adventures” by the creative team of Frank Wildhorn & Jack Murphy. He returned to the Wildhorn team by Music Directing “Zelda: An American Love Story”, produced in development at Flat Rock Playhouse. His work has been recognized by many Regional Theatre awards across the country. Michael also teaches adults and children locally in cello, voice, and piano.
"I wish to express my deep gratitude that the congregation at Providence Baptist Church asked me to be their Music Director. I see and feel the Spirit in the love and outreach of each of the congregants, and I look forward to serving their spiritual needs. My goal is to continue the high quality of music that each are accustomed to, working collaboratively with all to celebrate our faith and extend ourselves to our community. Together we can joyfully lift our voices with open minds, open arms, and open hearts.
Visit Michael at www.MichaelSebastian.info .
Annette Hudson, Church accompanist
After growing up in Dallas, North Carolina, Annette earned a Bachelor of Music from Appalachian State University and a Master of Music Education from Western Carolina University. She is a retired music specialist with the Henderson County Public Schools.
She sings in the Carolina Concert Choir and plays viola in the Blue Ridge Orchestra. Annette also was the chairperson of the Site Committee when Providence purchased their current ministry site on Oakland Street.
