Nathan Baker-Lutz

Something sacred happens when people sing together. Nate Baker-Lutz and Josh Rockett launched Beer and Hymns Chicago after experiencing it at Wild Goose in 2013. With local musicians playing banjos, mandolin, guitar, accordion and anything else laying around they lead spirited sing-alongs where the only rules are faster and louder. They’re committed to minimal amplification, relying on those gathered to lead the way and guide the singing. They’ve also helped a group launch Holland, MI, spreading the joy to more saints, sinners and spirited sojourners. Each time people gather to drink and sing they also laugh, shout, dance and make joyful noises with the hope of rediscovering what it means to gather in the Spirit and allow great hymns to move through God’s people. All are welcome as we join the voices of the past with people in the present and look toward the future we can create together.

Find Nathan on Instagram and on Twitter.

Claire Clyburn

Rev. Claire Clyburn is an ordained Elder in the UMC and pastor in Raleigh, NC. She’s the co-founder of Raleigh Beer and Hymns.

Kristen Howerton

Kristen is a licensed marriage and family therapist, mom of four, and the founder of the blog Rage Against the Minivan, where she writes about parenting a transracial family. Kristen has a passion for engaging people on the topic of racial justice. She spent 10 years teaching students at Vanguard University on the topic of psychology and diversity, and is now a full-time writer. She also helps lead Beer and Hymns in Orange County, CA.

Chad Markley

Chad Markley is the co-founder of Beer and Hymns Orange County, which was inspired after Kristen Howerton visited Wild Goose in 2014. It has grown from a small gathering of friends to a monthly event of 200+ people. Chad runs an IT company by day and loves connecting people through music.