Worship Without Limits: Practical guidance for shepherding people with sensory sensitivity
Have you ever wondered whether every member of your congregation truly feels at ease during worship? You might be surprised to learn that up to 20% of people experience what’s known as “sensory sensitivity.” In this post, Dr. Amanda Howard explores what sensory sensitivity means for our church communities and introduces a sneak peek of a new resource guide designed to help you create a more inclusive worship environment.
Awakening – the impact of worship experiences on young people
When it comes to young people and worship participation, I wonder if we sometimes assume that worship only affects them if they respond in an exuberant or affirmative fashion, perhaps by seeking leadership opportunities, shedding tears, or asking questions after a service. Awakening reminded me that worship affects all young people—for better or for worse—and it causes them to reflect.
The Worship Leader’s Calling
Stepping onto any platform to lead corporate worship is a step of faith that should come with a warning label: proceed with caution. We must never enter casually into this arena, which requires depth of spiritual maturity and a breadth of skills and abilities. In this latest post, Jonathan Rodgers encourages worship leaders to consider our calling and recommit to the central task of leading people to trust and follow God.
Research at CWA: Big things are coming!
This summer, researchers from the Center for Worship and the Arts with collaborators from other universities have been engaged in a multisite qualitative research project where we have been listening deeply to young people. We want to hear from them: what is it that motivates you to participate in public Christian worship?
The Pillar of Hope Youth Performing Arts Initiative
Pastor Amos Crews and Pillar of Hope Christian Church are working to serve their neighbors in Tarrant, Alabama, by growing and sustaining the Youth Performing Arts Initiative, with a purpose to provide economically disadvantaged children with ways to experience music and to have a creative outlet. Several Samford departments are joining forces to help make this dream a reality.
Journaling to God: A Visual Pathway to Deeper Faith
Journaling has long been a refuge for those seeking a private space to sort out their thoughts and feelings. When these reflections are directed towards God, it transforms into a spiritual practice that deepens faith and fosters a unique dialogue with our creator. In this post, Samford Art and Design Chair and Animate 2024 toolbox instructor, Scott Fisk, explores how journaling to God can serve as a spiritual tool, enhancing personal growth and providing solace during life’s trials and triumphs.
Faithfulness and Improvisation
At its heart, improvisation, (improv) involves creating amidst the unexpected. Can improv be a useful tool for developing and increasing our faith in God and our faithfulness to God? What would happen if we practiced saying “yes, and” to God even when we don’t know what might happen next? Pastor, improv comedy performer, and 2024 Animate toolbox instructor, Jacob Simmons, explores this unique connection in our latest post.
