In my Christian Worship class here at Samford with Dr. David Bains, we are studying 1 Corinthians 12, exploring the diversity of the Spirit’s gifts and how they unite us in the body of Christ. Just as the church exhibits a diversity of spiritual gifts, we also see liturgical diversity across denominations. Both are enriching because they allow different people to encounter God in ways that speak to them. This variety provides worshipers with what they desire and, often, what they didn’t even know they needed. For instance, lament, which has become less common in recent years, is something many contemporary congregations no longer engage with or even know about. They gain a new avenue to relate to and enjoy God during corporate and private worship when they discover it. As Rory Noland wisely says, “Worship is good if there is something in it uncomfortable or unfamiliar for everyone.” This discomfort challenges our perceptions of God and worship, growing us into the full stature of Christ as we immerse ourselves in the diverse expressions of the church.
Having attended numerous church services and worship camps, none have been like Animate. This program captures the richness of church history in one week, introducing us to a broad range of theological insights, liturgical traditions, and musical styles. Throughout the week, we experienced Roman Catholic entrance antiphons, a gospel choir singing Pentecostal and praise music, a brass quintet playing hymn arrangements, contemporary worship bands, interpretive dance accompanying the Psalms, and even solo violin performances. This fusion of styles amplified the message of the Gospel, showcased God’s attributes, and made worship more accessible and meaningful for everyone. Although many of us have a favorite worship style, leaders serve their congregation by communicating God’s truth in many ways, deepening their worship, understanding, and connection to Him. Animate did this brilliantly.
The schedule at Animate was equally well-planned, providing enriching sessions and plenty of fun. We had ample free time each day to engage in various activities, from badminton and soccer to painting and scavenger hunts. As part of this year’s Animate planning team, we’ve added even more exciting activities, like glow-in-the-dark dodgeball and laser tag. These moments of relaxation and connection are vital for building relationships with fellow students, discussing the sessions, and unwinding after a busy day. One of my favorite memories from Animate 2024 was the Worship Festival finale. Afterward, we had a jam session featuring some of the best Pentecostal Gospel music I’ve ever experienced. I danced so enthusiastically that my hair was drenched in sweat! I never imagined I’d get such an intense workout from a worship service, but at Animate, I did.
Another highlight of Animate was the small group discussions. Engaging with others, reflecting on the worship services, and assisting with service planning helped me grow as a worship leader. I’ve often heard that teaching is a reciprocal experience—that you learn from the people you teach—but I truly felt this for the first time at Animate. While in an observational role on the worship team, I gained invaluable insights from the students and leaders in our discussions. Their questions opened my eyes to aspects of church history and worship I hadn’t considered before.
Animate has been a pivotal experience in my journey as a worship leader. Though I’ve always interacted with worshipers and leaders, Animate was different—it allowed me to encounter worship in entirely new contexts. I witnessed the beauty of heaven on display as we worshiped God in multiple languages and as a multicultural, multiethnic body. Remarkably, by the end of the week, I found myself being led in worship by the very students I had been leading. As I left Animate, I felt a renewed passion for leading worship, planning it biblically, and pointing others to the God who saved me. I’m incredibly thankful to God and Samford’s Center for Worship and the Arts (CWA) for creating this innovative approach to worship education.
Animate 2025 registration is open! Don’t miss out—secure your spot today for a transformative week of worship, growth, and connection. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or new to deepening your faith, Animate promises to reshape how we worship and serve God. Register now and join us for this unforgettable experience!
Noah Myers is a senior music and worship major at Samford University from Bonaire, Georgia. He has served as a student staffer at Animate for the past two summers, contributing to worship leadership, event planning, and equipping others for ministry. Noah has also worked with the Center for Worship and the Arts (CWA) and played a role in planning Animate 2023, 2024, and 2025. In addition to his work at Animate, he interns at the Church at Liberty Park, where he leads worship, conducts choirs, manages tech, and leads a youth small group. Noah is passionate about guiding others in discovering God’s calling and cultivating a meaningful relationship with Him. He values compassion, peacemaking, and helping others learn to lead in worship.
For further reflections on Animate, check out:
Professors, Peers, and Pupils: How Community Shapes Our Gifts for Worship
Answering the Call: Young Leaders at the Heart of God’s Mission
Animate: A Reflection of the Church as One Body in Christ
Coming Home to Diverse Worship Practices – A Fuller Picture of the Glory of God
