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After being given the opportunity to participate in several Christmas concerts, this group, previously unnamed, felt called by God to step out in faith to spread God’s message through song.
This Christian gospel group, now named Freely Given, is comprised of Katarina DeLorenzo, John Pursell and Robin Rader-Knaap. John and Robin have been singing together for almost 20 years. Katarina, Robin’s daughter, joined them for the first time at 8 years old. Joe Knaap, Robin's husband, serves in the very important role of sound engineer. |
Katarina DeLorenzo
Through the music ministry of Freely Given, Katarina is continuing her family legacy of sharing the message of hope and salvation through Jesus Christ. She started singing in church at the age of 5, and continues to praise the Lord through song. Katarina met her husband, Michael, while singing with our then unnamed group. They were blessed to be married in 2015.
Katarina's favorite hymn is Blessed Assurance, reminding her to praise her Savior each day for the salvation and mercy He provides. One of her favorite Bible verses is Psalm 13:5, "But I trust in Your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in Your salvation."
Katarina's favorite hymn is Blessed Assurance, reminding her to praise her Savior each day for the salvation and mercy He provides. One of her favorite Bible verses is Psalm 13:5, "But I trust in Your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in Your salvation."
John Pursell
John has been sharing his love of Christ through Christian gospel music for most of his adult life. God has blessed John with a wonderful sense of humor, and the joy that exudes from his spirit always brightens our time together. John and his wife, Annie, have two beautiful daughters, as well as 2 adorable grandchildren, our biggest fans. You will often find them with us in our travels.
One of John's favorite scriptures is Deuteronomy 31:8, "The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed."
One of John's favorite scriptures is Deuteronomy 31:8, "The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed."
Robin Rader-Knaap
Robin started singing gospel music as a child with her family. Sharing her message of faith in various family groups over the years has been her passion. Continuing in ministry alongside her husband, daughter, and "brother from another mother" has been her latest calling from God. Robin is married to our sound engineer, Joe, and they shared the joy of raising their two children.
One of Robin's favorite hymns is Be Still My Soul, for our souls only find rest in God. One of her favorite Bible verses is Psalm 62:5 "My soul, wait thou only upon God, for my expectation is from Him."
One of Robin's favorite hymns is Be Still My Soul, for our souls only find rest in God. One of her favorite Bible verses is Psalm 62:5 "My soul, wait thou only upon God, for my expectation is from Him."
Joe Knaap
Sound Engineer
Joe started learning the art of sound mixing when he met and married Robin 30 years ago. Joining in the family music ministry lead Joe on a path of sharing his faith in a way he never would have imagined. The singing members of Freely Given are blessed to have a dedicated "sound man."
One of Joe's favorite scriptures is Matthew 16:15-16, "'But what about you?' Jesus asked. 'Who do you say I am?' Simon Peter answered, 'You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.'" This is an important reminder to share the good news of the gospel with others.
One of Joe's favorite scriptures is Matthew 16:15-16, "'But what about you?' Jesus asked. 'Who do you say I am?' Simon Peter answered, 'You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.'" This is an important reminder to share the good news of the gospel with others.