Kaptivating Voices for Christ

They have been "kaptivating" audiences for more than five years with their unique blend of sacred and contemporary Christian music. Sophomores Kathy Caraig, Kristy Caraig, and Amrita Rai are now learning how to use their talents on a larger scale.

Kathy, Kristy, and Amrita, who have been friends since the second grade, started singing together "just for fun" as freshmen at Glendale Adventist Academy. "It was more of a hobby, something we loved doing," Kathy said.

All three are members of the Eagle Rock Seventh-day Adventist church, where they gave their first performance for the church's renovated sanctuary dedication service in 1992.

Eagle Rock Pastor Jim Pedersen said he was pleased when Kathy, Kristy, and Amrita started singing together. "I was pleasantly surprised that we had such talent here," said Pedersen. "They are very spiritually committed and are very good friends, too."

After graduating from GAA in 1995, Kathy, Kristy, and Amrita brought their talents to PUC where they were soon dubbed "PUC's Freshman Trio."

Actually, their real name is "Kaptivate," and their focus has gradually evolved from hobby to mission. "God has opened the door for us to proclaim His word through music," Amrita said. "We've accepted and we plan to make a difference."

This past summer, Kaptivate was invited to represent Pacific Union College at the Soquel and Redwood campmeetings and perform at various churches throughout the state. Kaptivate continues to perform at churches, high schools and youth rallies during the school year. "It's really busy with school, but it's worth it," Kristy said. "It makes me feel good when people come up and say that they received a blessing."

In addition to singing with Kaptivate, Kathy, Kristy and Amrita enjoy many other activities.

Kathy, who plays the clarinet, piano and organ, is a psychology and music major. She plans to attend graduate school in psychology after graduating from Pacific Union College. Kathy enjoys camping, going to the lake, and writing music.

Kristy, who plays the flute and piano, is a speech pathology and nursing major. She plans to continue her education at Loma Linda University and later work with children as a speech pathologist. Kristy enjoys going out with friends, and sleeping during her spare time.

A social work major, Amrita plans to earn her teaching credentials at Pacific Union College, and later obtain her master's degree. She plans to become a medical social worker and spend most of her time in the pediatric ward. Amrita enjoys writing, listening to people (she was a peer counselor at Glendale Adventist Academy), and reading.

"We have chosen to 'Kaptivate' Christians for Christ," Amrita said. "It is our prayer that through music we can help others do the same."