Brian Criner

About me

Brian Criner grew up in a Christian home. He grew up in primarily the American Baptist church but through the years also attended Methodist and Congregational churches. Due to the needs of a small community and shortage of musicians, Brian also became active in helping to lead music in the local Catholic Church. After moving to Grand Rapids with his wife, Kelly and children, Brian and Amy, they were looking for a good vibrant church. While attending a retreat held by the MSU Campus Ministries they were told about Kentwood Christian Church and were immersed in baptism by Larry Carter in 1984 and became members.

When the Lord laid it on Brian’s heart that he was being called into the ministry, Brian was a youth sponsor for Kentwood Christian Church and a full-time professional musician and music teacher. Brian was prompted to explore the idea of finishing his music degree, only this time at a school where he could get a minor in Bible. Brian took one small step to explore this option and the doors starting opening with such speed that it was readily apparent that this was where he was being called. After graduating with honors and receiving his Bachelors of Music degree with a minor in Bible, while still leading worship part-time at Kentwood Christian Church, Brian became a Guitar and Contemporary Ensembles Adjunct Professor at Cornerstone University. Not soon after, the Worship Minister at Kentwood Christian Church announced that he was going to the mission field and Brian was offered the Interim Music Minister position. Brian was then ordained as the Worship Minister at Kentwood Christian Church.

Brian’s desire is to teach and lead people to a greater understanding of worship and how that impacts their daily lives.

Brian and his wife, Kelly, have been married for 30 years and have two children, Brian and Amy. His son, Brian, lives in Brooklyn, New York and his daughter, Amy, currently lives in the Grand Rapids area. Brian enjoys reading, music, nature, and sports, especially football.