Experiencing Scripture Through the Arts

In mid-February, members of the Territorial Arts Ministries (TAM) team visited Central Florida for a unique ministry opportunity. TAM led multiple workshops in the Tampa area, working alongside women of the Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC).

At the end of the weekend, approximately 30 women took part in a presentation of 1 Corinthians 13 during Sunday morning worship, using a bouquet of flowers to represent God’s love and how it is shared with others.

“While witnessing the women perform the prepared piece was incredible to see, it was the rehearsal time that felt most profound,” says Hannah Wood, divisional creative arts director for the Florida Division and a member of TAM. “Most of the ladies had very minimal experience in theater, and many of them arrived at the workshop feeling apprehensive. However, during our warm-up activities, you could feel the tension dissipate as they stepped out of their comfort zones and tried new things. That time was so vital to the workshop process.”

Prior to the public presentation, rehearsal and preparation time centered on creative scripture study, as well as fellowship and worship through the arts. The women broke into groups and developed ideas on how to effectively portray the scripture passages, adding their own interpretations along the way.

“It was an opportunity for them to see how important their individual voices were while also emphasizing the gifts that the Lord has given each of them,” Wood explains. “The end result was a unique expression of worship that will be a lasting memory for the participants and the leaders alike.”

“This weekend in Tampa was a great example of how powerful arts ministry can be,” says Bethany Farrell, territorial creative arts director. “While it may seem as though we were simply introducing basic theater skills, we were actually creating space for empathy, community building, self-worth, and most importantly, growing a deeper and more personal understanding of God’s Word.”

The TAM team looks forward to continuing to share their talents in ministry support at several upcoming divisional women’s retreats, as well as during this year’s Commissioning and Bible Conference.