Your church, and specifically your young adults group, can become a community-renowned source for the arts. By establishing a ministry […]
Your church, and specifically your young adults group, can become a community-renowned source for the arts. By establishing a ministry that fosters excellence in the arts and gives community members a chance to engage in the arts, you can not only connect with people who might never darken the door of a church, but you can also create art that glorifies God and is truly inspirational.
Of course, such an initiative would require some careful planning as well as vision and hard work. But if you are able to network with a few committed artists in your group, you may be surprised to see how God can use your church as a place of innovative art.
Here are a few ways to contribute to your arts community:
Check to see who among your group memebers are interested in the arts. Don’t limit it to just one art form: poll your group for their interests in music (all kinds), painting, drawing, sculpture, drama, prose, poetry, graffiti art and dance (all styles). At the same time, pitch the idea of somehow using these arts in ministry and outreach, and determine what the interest is (and how non-artistic members of your group can also contribute to the project).
Then, focus on an art form that seems to resonate with a number of your members. Your group should try to focus on one specific area, especially when establishing your arts project, to avoid spreading yourselves too thin (other art forms can be featured in later versions of your art project).
Once you have selected a particular art form, brainstorm ideas to come up with a project that your group can realistically accomplish. Perhaps the project will start out with a special music concert event or a dance recital or the publishing of a book of poems. Perhaps your group will want to create a temporary art gallery in an accessible space within your church (or even out in the community). Tailor the project to your individual group’s abilities and opportunities.
Network with local community arts programs to provide training for your members. Access the expertise of local art galleries, bands, authors, dance troupes, community college or university professors (and students). Ask them to train you and provide honest constructive criticism regarding your work, and ask them about the areas of neglect in the local arts community that your church could help to fill.
Invite the general public to take part in your art, whether through attending a concert, taking in an impromptu art gallery in your church or reading a book of poetry.
Of course, like any artistic endeavor, your project will likely veer off from these ideas and morph into something totally unique and interesting. Be flexible and patient, and commit yourselves to being creative and innovative. Become a leader in the arts in your community, all the while acknowledging the Creator’s inspiration and guiding hand in your work.
