After that, we moved into small groups. What audiences see is the performance, but an integral part to the Shining Light experience is our small groups, because they provide a means for the members to hear and speak about what is going on Shining Light, church, and in their personal lives so we can pray for and encourage them. Leaders aim to make the groups as comfortable as possible, and to include everyone, which can be a major chore. My small group is wonderful. We have a great balance, and everyone offers insight on whatever we’re talking about. Today’s discussion was about our reactions to Teen Challenge and our concerns and questions about Shining Light’s NYC tour, coming up in November. Members of my group had lots to share. A few said their favorite part at Teen Challenge was when the men gave their testimonies. Another said that his favorite part was the show itself. I said my favorite part was the time spent before, having small groups with a few of the students who were almost ready to leave the program. We then discussed the NYC tour, and how we would get to know each other better and how the Riker’s Island performance is always a treat.  We also discussed some of the perks of exploring the City.

After that we had a snack, and then we went back to work.  We started up again by doing our “Boot Camp” exercises, which are geared to make our group more synchronized in our motions. The left and right sides of the group faced each other and we observed each other’s motions. This transitioned us to the part of rehearsal where we run through the songs of the show in order. We had some time to correct minor details in songs, but for the most part, it was just a run-through. Kelly explained a few of the songs to us using different words so we understand the meaning of the song instead of just sing and dance aimlessly.

It was a great practice and morale was high.  Keep up the great work Shining Light!

Last night in my devotions, I was reading in the book of Matthew. In chapter 4, verse 19, Jesus says to Simon (called Peter) and his brother Andrew, two fishermen, “Come follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” I was thinking of how we can apply this to what we’re doing in Shining Light. God has called us out to be a light in one of the darkest places in the world–he has called us to witness, and to tell our stories, and to encourage. What we have found in Him is appealing to others, and through His power, we can bring others to Him. We are fishers of men.

Hope to see you all Sunday, October 18th at Teen Challenge Training Center in Rehrersburg. Thanks for reading =)

Have a blessed week!

There’s a lot of choreography to practice…I’ve found it to be much more fun and helpful to practice with friends, because you can help to build each others confidence and desire to put 100% of yourselves into whatever you are doing.

Last night we were fortunate enough to have a special guest performance. Jeff Bohn’s brother, Hans, a member of the Boston Pops Symphony that plays in Symphony Hall, shared with us his talent on the trombone, with Jeff accompanying him on the piano. It was really cool to see the two brothers sharing their love of music through their talents. We thank Hans for lending his time and talents for our group to enjoy!

It’s probably time for homework..ah, the life of a college student!

I’m glad we got to meet with our Small Groups again this week. My group had both thought provoking questions and discussion that allowed everyone in the group to either learn something new or to see something from a different perspective. Sharing prayer requests and joys is often my favorite part of the session because I hope to connect with the girls in my group on a personal basis. I think it’s going to be a fun year : )

We had even more prospective members join us this week than in previous weeks…keep em’ comin’! Don’t forget to bring your friends this coming Sunday, September 20th for Friends Night!

The group continued to learn vocals and choreography for a new song that will be added to the program, and it was encouraging for me, as a third year member, to see those who haven’t had any formal dance training (and those who have discovered it may not come as natural to them as to others!) to keep pushing through and giving  it their all! Great job to all of you who keep a smile on your face the whole time! =)

Last night was also the first night of small groups! The girls were split into four groups, and the guys into two, and we will be periodically meeting in these small groups to connect and have group discussion. As a small group leader, I know that I am pumped to get to know my girls better and make connections that will allow us to tackle the tough stuff in life!

Dancin’ into next week…

See ya then!

I’m thrilled to say that Shining Light kicked off their 14th season this past Sunday, the 30th, at 6pm! The evening was a blur of excitement, even for myself as a third year member, as we welcomed 17 new faces who were checking out Shining Light for the first time!

The new season began with some fun games that allowed returning members and new/prospective members to get to know one another. In Shining Light, we love to share our experiences with others in the group, so we always enjoy a game that allows us to socialize!

The evening continued as three returning members–Robert, Lauren, and Daniel–served as a panel that responded to questions commonly asked by perspective members of Shining Light, such as: How do you balance school, a job, and Shining Light? What was your biggest fear or concern when you joined Shining Light and how did you overcome it?, etc.

After we allowed for a bit of adjustment for our prospective members, we jumped (literally!) right into rehearsal by learning a new song that will be incorporated into our program in the coming months. The singing and choreography required high energy, and Kelly praised us for a job well done! =)

Of course, a Shining Light event (even if it IS only a three hour rehearsal!) just would not be complete without a snack! The lovely and dedicated food staff graciously provided us with a mixture of vanilla ice cream and our choice of either watermelon or mango Rita’s Italian Ice to help cool us off after some hard work.

I’m looking forward to next week for another exciting rehearsal! We can’t wait to see our prospective members back again! =)