Raphael
http://www.raphaelmusic.com
by Trisha Bleau

CS: Please share with us how you got started in the music business and ministry.

Raphael: I was signed to Myrhh in 1989, but had been playing local churches and coffeehouses for years.

CS: What is the main focus in your ministry? Teens? The lost? The hurting? Why did you decide up on this as a focus?

Raphael: I like to think that my music brings hope and healing to a hurting world.

CS: Do you ever worry about getting caught up in the world of show biz? That success will change you?

Raphael: I have a lot of experience in show business and I feel very wise in telling the difference between ministry and entertainment now that I have been at it for a while.

CS: What kind of relationship do you maintain with your audiences? Do you fellowship with them? Or do you remain distant as the performer?

Raphael: I really try to fellowship with people all over the country at the shows. This is a very good question.

CS: When and how did you accept Christ into your heart?

Raphael: 10 yrs old at Word of Life Camp ion Scroon Lake NY

CS: Do you make it a goal to use your music to minister to people? Or do you just write for the sake of writing and performing?

Raphael: I am truly a ministerer. I know how to entertain, but it is much more satisfying to minister.

CS: Do you write your own music?

Raphael: All of it.

CS: Where do you get ideas for your music?

Raphael: What people are saying...hot topics in my and other's lives.

CS: How would you describe your music style?

Raphael: Contemporary Folk

CS: Do you ever get criticized for your lyrics?

Raphael: Yes...especially my song "Time Will Tell"

CS: Who, or what, are your biggest musical influences?

Raphael: Phil Keaggy, Larry Norman

CS: Are you involved in any other ministries?

Raphael: I am a co-pastor of New River Fellowship Franklin, TN

CS: Do you have an accountability partner or prayer partner to keep you encouraged and uplifted?

Raphael: I meet with a leadership team weekly.

CS: Do you have any advice to give to the youth of our world?

Raphael: Don't get acne...(just kidding) Give ALL you've got to the Kingdom of God.