Missions Breakout Session (Sharing mission experiences)
The UPAFTER is a Christian band from Long Island, New York. The band, formerly known as "Lighthouse" started in 2004 with 4 reckless Indian dudes. Sam, Justus, Burli, and Jeff would sneak into their church late at night to sing songs to an audience of One. Sure people called the cops on them a couple times, but it was worth it. They played their hearts out in that little church in Elmont, driven by the joy of connecting with God, their brothers in the band, and chicken & rice (49th and 6th) after every practice. After years of no gigs and just hanging out at church, people started calling them to other churches, conventions, retreats, and conferences. God began to take the band on a wonderful, magical, stupendous journey that rocked their socks.
Over the years, band members were led by God to pursue their individual callings. Although members changed, the people that God brought we're just as passionate, reckless, and hungry for middle eastern food. Shawn, Shyju, Burli, and Jeff are the current members.
In 2009 the band released their first EP Album "Welcome to the band". Shortly after, they found out the name "Lighthouse" was taken by another band called "Lighthouse". Understanding the consequences of being sued, losing everything, and living on hot-pockets for the rest of their lives, they searched for a new band name.
Former 'India's Most Interesting Man' and 'BAND CEO', James Mathews, encouraged the band to read 1 Samuel 14. The story inspired the band. It talked about a guy named Jonathan who was crazy enough to take on an entire army with just his armor-bearer. The band was able to relate to this silly young bible character. Jonathan had incredible faith that God would lead him and his friend through the battle. Right before the battle Jonathan turns to his armor-bearer and says "Will you come UPAFTER me?".
In May of 2012 the band released their first full album " Love on Display ". The album comprised of 12 songs; 11 originals and 1 cover. The songs were written as a tool to bring change, to cause a shift, and reach the lost.
The UPAFTER is just a band of 4 people fighting their battle. However, they don't want to do it alone. Come with us; join us. God is going to come through. He wont fail. He can't. Think super-natural, reckless, and devoted. Will you come UPAFTER us?
The Up After
