Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

NASHVILLE | Sarah Kroger’s music has the power to stir the soul, encouraging individuals to confront their brokenness and encounter God where they are. Performing at the 2024 National Eucharistic Congress at Lucas Oil Stadium, Kroger and her band led attendees in praise and worship during the morning “Encounter” track impact sessions. The crowd responded with palpable joy.

Kroger observed a significant hunger for Jesus among those present, stating, “like everyone was ready to go, ready to pray, ready to enter in and excited to be there.” She emphasized her aim of making herself disappear as much as possible during worship to facilitate an encounter with God. “It’s less of me and more of Him,” she said. Her goal is to create an environment for people to meet God wherever they are.

Kroger’s music reflects her deep relationship with Christ, which began at a Steubenville conference during her youth and was nurtured by her community at Holy Name of Jesus Parish in Indialantic. Although she now resides in Nashville with her husband Dom Quaglia, the couple met at their parish youth group. Kroger grew up in music ministry there alongside family members who were also involved.

“For me it was a training ground, a safe space to learn how to lead prayer and worship,” Kroger said. The community's support helped build her confidence despite being bullied as a child. She expressed gratitude for their encouragement that led her into ministry beyond the church walls.

Kroger acknowledged that many people have been hurt by the Church but stressed the importance of being missionaries of love. “We need not be afraid of being people of repentance and self-awareness – continually realizing we are broken and in need of a Savior for the rest of our lives,” she said.

Despite experiencing spiritual dryness recently, Kroger continues to lean on music as Eucharist for herself and others. Her latest album, “A New Reality,” reflects this journey. She emphasizes that faith is about maintaining a relationship with God beyond feelings.

One way she connects with God is through nature, where she finds perspective on life’s challenges. Reflecting on Isaiah 43:19 after attending the National Eucharistic Congress, she noted a profound sense of unity among diverse attendees and described it as revival: “I think we are going to see the ripples of this event for years to come.”

By Glenda Meekins of the Florida Catholic staff