Oak Harbor resident Joshua Elliot is making a big change. He said he received a call from the big man upstairs, and he’s ready to respond whole-heartedly.

Joshua and his wife, Anna Marie, moved to Oak Harbor about six or seven years ago from Lopez Island. Currently they run a business together, but they’ve recently started a new mission, to spread the love of God through music and outreach.

Joshua is a musician and has been performing his reflective concert series of classical hymns on the island. He said he started the series simply because he enjoys singing but realized it was something he should be doing long-term.

About three weeks ago he made the discovery.

“My voice got really strong in a matter of weeks, and when I sang a church solo I just felt God’s presence right through my voice,” he said. “I’ve never felt that powerful before.”

Soon after, Johshua and his wife founded Whole Hearted Ministry. Joshua said the plan for the ministry is simple, and that he doesn’t want to waste money renting out a big facility or running up administrative costs. The couple will have an office where they do their planning, but plan to travel to nursing homes, concerts, discussion groups or wherever else they’re called.

While Joshua will be focused on playing music, Anna Marie will concentrate on reaching out to those who have been affected by domestic violence.

Anna Marie was in an abusive relationship earlier in her life and is eager to share her testimony with others. Because she never received an official degree in the field, Anna Marie will not perform counseling, but will serve as an advocate for those who need her.

“My wife has a special gift of uplifting those faced with domestic violence,” Joshua said. People can contact Anna Marie directly and invite her to speak at their engagements.

Joshua wants to stress that Whole Hearted Ministry was developed solely to spread God’s word. He doesn’t want people to see it as a business venture and isn’t looking to make a profit. He said most of the funds raised (from concert tickets, donations etc.) will go back into programs and will pay for the costs of renting facilities such as the Student Union Building at Oak Harbor High School for performances.

“We have to be careful about how we do things, because we don’t want to go down the road that other nonprofits have,” Joshua said.

Information about the ministry can be found at whole-heartedministry.org. Though details are still getting worked out, Joshua is excited to get the program off the ground.

“We are formed officially,” he said, “and musically, I’m ready.”

Get inspired

What: Classic hymns from Joshua Elliot

When: 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 2

Where: Student Union Building, OHHS

Tickets: Advanced $12 at the Whidbey Playhouse, $15 at the door

Info: Call 360-320-0756