Paterson ARC Staffer Takes Gospel Award 

by Hugo Bravo 

The Gospel Choice Music Awards, which celebrates the heritage of gospel music and pays tribute to influential Christian music performers, recognized Efrain Reyes aka “Ephraim Kings” as the 2024 Rap/Hip Hop Artist of the Year. 

Reyes, a native of Jersey City, works as an intake counselor at The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC) in Paterson, N.J. A graduate of Liberty University, Reyes says his degree in biblical and theological studies and apologetics has helped him in his music career.  

“When I write songs, I make sure that what I mention in my lyrics is theologically sound,” says Reyes. “A lot of Christian music takes its own path away from the gospel. Knowing that what I write is Scripture-based keeps me in check.” 

Reyes traveled to Atlanta for the Gospel Choice Music Awards. It was his first time attending the celebration as a nominee. At the awards, he met and connected with fellow Christian musicians in a variety of genres. Just like Reyes, many of them were involved in ministry as well as music. 

“I was singing and worshiping along with everyone, but throughout the awards, I was completely in suspense. When they called my name, I was in shock,” says Reyes. “Doing Christian hip-hop music allows me to express myself, communicate with the Lord, and hopefully, help someone better understand the gospel.”  

The opportunity to be part of The Salvation Army’s ARC ministry as intake counselor, Reyes says, was like God opening a door for him.  

“Every time I host group therapy at the ARC, I begin with prayer. It’s such a blessing to be able to help and counsel others through the Bible and the biblical principles that I’ve worked hard to learn,” says Reyes.  

For more about Ephraim Kings, visit youtube.com/@EphraimKingsOfficial