Morganton, NC – It’s the dawning of a new day and a new era for Eric and Laura Ollis (pictured in attached jpg with oldest son, Payton).
Eric has spent the past two decades playing piano with The Dixie Melody Boys and most recently, The Whisnants. Recently he and his wife of 18 years, Laura, announced plans to embark upon a family ministry, which will also include oldest son, Payton. This new venture will allow the couple to travel together and minister in churches and conferences, or wherever opportunities arise. I definitely feel like I’m stepping into uncharted territory. All I’ve known for 20 years is traveling and playing with a group, so this is definitely a new adventure, but one I believe God has ordained,†Eric explains.Â
In 1993, when the high school sweethearts married, Eric was already traveling professionally with popular Southern Gospel quartet, The Dixie Melody Boys. Within a few years, the two juggled the hectic schedule of life on the road for Eric, while raising two young boys.
A life changing moment occurred in 2003 when their youngest son, three-year-old Michael, was diagnosed with autism. While the diagnosis devasted the family, God used the moment to change their lives in a miraculous way. “Through this great trial came the heart and compassion for our ministry,†Laura shares.
This “ministry†is one she and Eric founded in 2008, as Laura began to minister in area churches and ladies conferences, sharing her testimony and words of encouragement. In recent years, Laura has earned her certificate in Women’s Ministry and Biblical Counseling, is a published author, noted speaker and songwriter. She also encorporates singing into her personal testimony, and is thrilled to have Eric accompany her.
“We are very excited about the directlon we believe God is taking our ministry and our family. He is opening so many doors. It’s mind blowing, to be honest,†Eric explains.
The Oliis’ are scheduling concerts, worship events and conferences during the remainder of 2011 and into 2012. Recently the couple hosted the 2011 Sanctuary Conference in their hometown of Morganton, NC. Scheduling information, as well as additional information regarding the couple’s organization, Mountain Ridge Ministries, visit www.mountainridgeministries.com.
