The most important things in life aren't things. Here are a few of the people that make The Essence what it is.

Roy Mitchell

Roy, the Youth and Young Adult Minister at Messiah UMC, is the facilitator and pastor of The Essence. He spent some time in Fortaleza, Brazil, while working on a degree. He is a graduate of the Methodist Theological School in Ohio, and he enjoys reading, writing, walking, and playing with his kids.

Jess Hilliard

Jess has been a member of jug and folk bands with his trombone and washtub bass for some time and was recently a creative contributor for an award winning motion picture. He's created several touring video documentaries, and his old band, The Hi Fives, played at the CMJ music and film festival. It also won a BAMMIE in 1996 and provided music for TV ads and background music for several TV shows. The Hi Fives has shared the stage with Chris Isaak, Booker T, Bonnie Raitt, John Lee Hooker, Clarence Clemmons, Green Day (including arena tours), Joan Baez, Dick Dale, Carlos Santana and others. He's been on the Letterman and Leno shows--long story, ask him about it if you are curious! He recently moved from California to help with the farming and restoration of his mom and step-dad's 100 year old family farmhouse and turn it into a bed and breakfast. He is married to Brooke Hubbs, local artist and Methodist minister---and they dream of having their own farm as a “retreat environment” for spiritually-minded artists to come and create.

David Soliday

David loves music and poetry.  He's played guitar off and on since he was a young teenager.  He's also sang in several choirs and written his own songs, some of which we sing at The Essence gatherings.  He graduated from the Methodist Theological School in Ohio in May of 2007 and has an undergrad degree in computer info systems.  He's spent the last 15 years in Central Ohio, but has also lived in West Virginia and Oregon, having grown up in suburbs of Cleveland and Chicago.  We're glad to have him contribute to our emerging worship.