Jeff Blake

Jeff Blake is our Director of Contemporary Worship and College Ministry.  Having lead worship for 15 years, he joined our staff in 2010.  This is his second time around First-Centenary as his father, Wayne Blake, was our youth director for a short time in the mid 80’s.  Jeff states that, “having participated in children’s choirs here all those years ago, it is very special to come back and be a part of the leadership of this great church.”

After years of being involved with various bands and worship teams, Jeff is particularly excited about our Vine Band.  He admits, “It can be difficult getting musicians to set aside their egos and personal agendas to work toward a common goal.  But this group is different.  They understand that we are here to lead others in worship of our Lord.  They get it, and that’s exciting.”  Jeff credits Emily Harrison, his long-time co-worship leader, with most of the band’s success saying, “she’s as genuine and authentic a person as you could ever hope to have on stage.  I’m blessed just to know her.  Plus we’re all scared to death of her so she’s definitely in charge!”

Just this past year, our college ministry was added to Jeff’s plate.  He seems to be most excited about this challenge.  “With a huge campus right outside our back door, our church has a wonderful opportunity, and I feel a responsibility, to reach this generation.  They will lead us one day.  So I can’t wait to see this ministry take off,” he says.

Jeff and his wife Christy have one son, Brycen, and are expecting their second child in November.  He is a very proud husband as he shares, “I have always been amazed by Christy’s unwavering faith.  She teaches me every day what it means to walk the walk.”  And Brycen already seems to have his eye on a position with our band.  “He had his first drum kit when he was 2,” he says with a smile.  “Now that he’s almost 4, he can already keep the beat while I play guitar.  He’s going to push me right out of job I just know it!”

We are pleased to have Jeff on staff here at First-Centenary.  And we are especially delighted to have his family be a part of our church family.  As he leads both our contemporary worship and college ministry, we anticipate exciting times ahead.  Below are just a few interesting facts about Jeff:

-favorite scripture: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” JEREMIAH 29:11

-avid golfer

-loves Facebook (not sure he’s serious)

-Red Bank High School’s all-time leading scorer in basketball

-once worked at the Chattanooga Choo-Choo as a singing waiter

-was Chattanooga’s Entertainer of the Year in 2006

-knows one magic trick