Dr. Mark Banker-

Dr. Banker is the author of “Appalachians All”. Dr. Banker was born and raised near Kingston, TN. He is a graduate of Warren Wilson College [B.A.-1973, The University of Virginia [M.A.T.] and the University of New Mexico [Ph.D. – 1987].

Following 12 rewarding years in New Mexico, family circumstances led him to return to the family farm near Kingston, TN. Since then he has taught history at the Webb School in Knoxville, TN.

Mark teaches an array of courses at the Webb School. He has particular interest in Southwest Appalachia. He has written two Volumes on the history of Warren Wilson College. He wrote the centerpiece article for the summer, 2003 Journal of Presbyterian History special issue on “Missionaries, Multiculturalism and Mainstream Protestantism.”. He is working with others on a book of essays on the contribution of mission workers in Appalachian ministry.

Dr. Mark Banker will be the Keynote Speaker.

Rev. Edwin Lacey-

Edwin is a musician-turned pastor who graduated from the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary in 2000. He had a dream of creating a new experimental worshipping community that would offer bluegrass music expressions of Appalachian culture and a home to the nonchurched in the community.

A small brick church that was about to be closed became the location for this new ministry. Pews have been replaced with rockers, organs with banjos, and goblets with Mason jars. Additionally, Wild Goose has moved away from traditional, preacher-based worship into incorporating the congregated group; discussions occur instead of sermons. Through these means, Wild Goose creates a vivid and extremely unique Appalachian experience for participants in the Uprisings.

Wild Goose Uprising is a worshipping community in the heart of Appalachia that offers bluegrass music and a taste of the unexpected. Wild Goose Uprising is located in a beautiful corner of Floyd County, Virginia. It is part of the ministry of Abingdon Presbytery.  

Edwin Lacy will lead in the opening worship of CAM’s Appalachia Then and Now anniversary celebration and will tell some of the Wild Goose story