Paneh Praise Dance and Mime Ministry E-Newsletter Archive - Year 1 (Nov 2005 - Oct 2006)

Distractions in Worship
An article by Paneh’s co-founder Stephanie

First of all I would like to say thank you to the Lord God Almighty for entrusting me with the precious gift of dance.  This article will speak about distractions and how they affect our worship.  I recently completed a tour in Baghdad, Iraq and was COMPLETELY content for the first time in my life.  Some of you might say why and how could that be in a war zone.  I am honored to be able to share with you that it was a wonderful wilderness experience!  To be in His presence everyday without any distractions enabled me to concentrate completely on God--it was truly awesome! 

Distractions are so prevalent in everyone's life that we must be able to recognize the attack of the enemy.  The enemy sends distractions to detour us from what we need to be focused on for the Kingdom of God.  Distractions will have you so stressed that you lose sight of what's important.  Distractions can almost be anything--family, work, friends, cell phone, media, and sometimes even other Christians operating in the body of Christ.  You have to be able to have balance in your life so you won’t find yourself neglecting important areas in your life.  Prayerfully ask God for wisdom and where He would have you planted.  If you are planted somewhere that is outside the will of God you will not blossom or bear good fruit.

Matthew 7:17  Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.

How do you respond when distractions are rapidly approaching?  You keep your mind stayed on Jesus!  Get a song in your heart you can praise him through your Spirit even when someone is speaking negatively to you or about you--meditate on God!  Go to the rock--the Word of God.  I particularly meditate on the book of Psalms. 

Psalms 1:1-2 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

History reveals that the Psalms were used by the Israelites in the context of worship to provide structure.  It was a way they could bring their praises, thanks, grief and hurt before God.  The Psalms are the prayers and the praises of God's people.  They are an example of honesty before God, a guide for worship , and a demonstration of the importance of prayer and meditation. 

So the next time the enemy tries to distract you, turn those emotions into happy positive emotions that exalt the Lord and bring everlasting praises unto his name!  Understand that all things work together for those who love the Lord--let every trial become a testimony! 

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Miriam and David
Worship dancers and much more (part 1 of 2)
by Lakita Humber, Paneh Praise Dance & Mime Ministry, founder

As we search the scriptures it becomes evident that dance was a part of praise and worship in the Old and New Testaments.  Two prominent biblical figures are Miriam and David.  Both are Israelites, one from the tribe of Levite and the other from the tribe of Judah; both in different places in Old Testament history, however, both carry lessons that are applicable today.

Miriam is commonly remembered as the as the older sister of Moses.  However, she places an important role in biblical history.  The fact that Miriam was a prophetess is a little known fact because everyone concentrates on Moses. 

And Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a timbrel in her hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances. (Exodus 15:20 KJV)

Miriam was called to be a prophet.  She was not called to minister on a large scale like Moses was, nevertheless her role was important and acknowledged in scriptures.  Being a prophet means you are God’s mouthpiece.  In additional to being a prophetess, she was a worship leader.  After the exodus she led the women in a celebratory victory dance.

What can we learn from Miriam?

1. There are no “small positions” when you are fulfilling the will of God.  Support roles are vital to the body of Christ.
Even though Miriam had what may be portrayed as a ‘small role’, we must remember that Miriam watched baby Moses travel down the river.  It was Miriam that suggested to Pharaoh’s daughter that a Hebrew woman raise the baby.  Miriam ran straight home and because she was where God needed her to be Moses was raised by his own mother…and PAID for it!
  7Then said his sister to Pharaoh's daughter, Shall I go and call to thee a nurse of the Hebrew women, that she may nurse the child for thee?
 8And Pharaoh's daughter said to her, Go. And the maid went and called the child's mother.
 9And Pharaoh's daughter said unto her, Take this child away, and nurse it for me, and I will give thee thy wages. And the women took the child, and nursed it. (Exodus 2:7-9 KJV)

2. Dance minister, we must be careful not to put God in a box.  God has called you to dance – seek God and see that you are doing all that He has for you to do!
Miriam was a dance minister, but she was also a prophet.  We are now living in the dispensation of grace.  In this dispensation every believer receives at least one spiritual gift:

7But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. (1 Cor 12:7 KJV)
Spiritual gifts are defined throughout the New Testament.  Some of these include but are not limited to: prophecy, evangelism, missions, teaching, encouragement, wisdom, helps, tongues, interpretation, giving, and faith.
If you do not know what your spiritual gift(s) is, seek the Lord for the answer so he can fully use you!  
Next month during part 2 we will explore the life of David, a radical dancer and more.

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Miriam and David
Worship dancers and much more (part 2 of 2)
by Lakita Humber

Last month we explored the life of prophetess Miriam; praise dance leader and sister of Moses.  This month we are going to launch forward in history and examine David.  Most dance ministers are familiar with 2 Sam 6:14: And David danced before the LORD with all his might; and David was girded with a linen ephod

This was definitely a high point in David’s life!  He is king of Israel and the Ark is being returned to Jerusalem.  David danced before the Lord as an expression of praise.  Operating in total humility he took the place of the slave at the head of the procession representing his true worship and submission to the Lord.

What can we learn from David?
- The lessons we can learn from David go beyond the scope of this article, however here are a few points of interest.

1.  Know God’s timing!
Samuel was sent to anoint David as Saul’s successor as king.  What did David do after he received his anointing?  He continued to operated in his current office (shepard) and served as Saul’s amour bearer.

1 Samuel 16
13Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel rose up, and went to Ramah.
…
21And David came to Saul, and stood before him: and he loved him greatly; and he became his armourbearer.

We must be careful to operate in God’s timing.  Just because we are anointed to do a work it doesn’t mean that it is our time.  David did not become ‘big-headed’ when he knew he would be king.  He continued to serve where he was presently called.

As time passed, David had to flee from Saul.  At times David was put in the predicament of fighting Saul’s enemies and running from Saul at the same time.  David was even presented the opportunity to kill Saul, yet he refused to be ruled by anger or injustice.  Not only did he not harm Saul under what seemed like optimal conditions, he didn’t allow his men to harm Saul either (see 1 Sam 24-26).  David cut a corner of King Saul’s robe and was convicted to have done that!

He knew God’s promise was that he would inherit the throne of Israel.  He also knew that Saul was in the way of that promise.  But he also knew the blessings of being obedient and it was not his place to touch God’s anointed.    This brings me to my second point:

2. The power of submission
David confronted Saul after he departed from the cave.  David just spared Saul’s life after being on the run from Saul trying to take his life.  David also knows that he has an anointing on his life to be the next king of Israel.  Despite these conditions David did not confront Saul as if he was better than him or owed him any debt of gratitude, he did not even confront him as an equal.  David bowed down before Saul and recognized him as ruler / king.  Here he puts himself in a vulnerable position, Saul could have easily struck him, after all, he has been chasing him all this time.  But David knew the power of submission and trusted in God to be his protection.

3. David knew how to kill giants!
We all know the story of David and Goliath.  It’s a popular Sunday school story of how the young boy took out the giant with his sling.  The odds were stacked against David: Goliath was a giant (9ft tall) and a trained warrior, on the other hand, David was a Shepard that has never been in battle. 

What giants are you facing?  Impossible situations, people, haunting memories of the past etc.  Whatever the giant let this popular story inspire you and give you confidence in the battles you face.  Remember, the greater the battle, the more glorious the vicory!  To God be all the glory!

4.  There will always be those that despise (hate) your praise
When the ark was finally returned to Israel we read that David danced before the lord with all his might.  We go on to read that as his wife Michal looked on she saw him dancing and despised him in her heart.  I won’t elaborate anymore on Michal at this time. The point is that we all will have “Michal’s” in our life, but we must not sit down on our praise!

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“Remember, it’s passion that persuades”
by Paulette Rolle-Alensnik, author of Dare to Dance

The word passion is defined as extreme, compelling emotions; intense emotional drive or excitement – the object of any strong desire or fondness. Let me begin by asking you… “What are you passionate about, really, passion about?” What do you love most? STOP!!  Don’t answer just yet. I want you to think about this. What gets your motor running? What makes you tick and keep you ticking? What do you daydream about? What are you thinking about when you have a spare moment? What is interrupting your thought process right now as you read this? You already know the answer, don’t you? BUT WAIT!!  Do not answer just yet. What is it that makes you forsake mother, father, husband, wife, children, church, and career? What it is that causes you to contravene a commitment (being a man / woman of your word)? What is it that you invest in most? If I look at your checkbook today, what or to whom do you write most of your checks out too? What is it that you invest in emotionally, mentally, spiritually and financially? What is it that controls your time? What is it you’ll defend to the death? What or to whom do you give your life?  By life, I’m not referring to ‘giving’ your life as in dying…rather “giving’ your life as in “living for…!”

By now, your mind is racing but I need you to focus. You may or may not know what “it” is. Either way, do not allow your mind to answer you just yet. When you answer this question it will reveal a part of your destiny.

Let me share this short story with you…Fritz Kreisher, a world-renowned violinist produced some of the world’s most beautiful and passionate music. Once, after a concert Fritz Kreisher overheard a female fan remarked, “I’d give my life to play like him…” Fritz Kreisher approached the lady and replied, “Madam, I did.”  That statement would stop anyone in his or her track. Think about that. You and I would only imagine what it took for him to become a world-renowned violinist. But he ‘knew” what it took, his life! Life, his very existence: being, time, living, days, years, survival, continuation, subsistence, livelihood, source of revenue – life!  Imagine the sports and games he missed with his school buddies…the sleepovers and camping trips, the parties he missed as a teenager…the dates he missed as a young man…imagine what he gave up to pursue his calling. He gave his life to bring the world his “life-changing” music!  The word of G-d says, life is short! How are you investing your time (life)?  

Think about it for a second - - and then you may answer the question in paragraph one! Go back and re-read it if need be. You MUST be passionate about SOMETHING. Sincerely find out what it is, for it is a clue to your destiny!

NOW YOU MAY ANSWER! STOP READING FOR A MOMENT AND FROM THE BOTTOM OF YOUR HEART, REALLY HEAR YOUR ANSWER…what do I mean by “hear your answer?” Allow your mind, body and soul to hear what your heart is saying, what your soul desires! What IS your destiny!!! I want you to begin to focus in on it with purpose, pay more attention to it! Invest in it. Whatever your answer…it’s a part of your destiny! Your passion is a clue to your destiny. And it is sacred and holy! Be found worthy of it. II Timothy 1:9 says, before the world began, you were called (predestined) with a holy calling…according to His own purpose and grace. 

You are called! You are destined. God deliberately placed a powerful seed of passion in your heart before you were even born. And no one can stop it but you! Your calling to do what you do with such passion is inescapable, and it is time to reach into your destiny, produce the manifestation, and answer your call. God’s grace and greatness are inside of you. God’s glory and power are inside of you. Let it be seen and felt. {Excerpt from my book Dare to Dance with Him published by Creation House Press / Charisma House}

What is destiny?  Destiny can be defined as your assignment, your calling, and your passion! In other words it is what you were created to do and only you can do it because G-d had called you to do it. This does not mean that others people are not qualified to do it. But what it does mean is that G-d has called you and predestined you to do it!  He said, “Before I formed thee, I knew thee and before thou camest forth from out of the womb, I sanctified thee and I set you apart for holy purposes.” Jer. 1:5. Did you know your were created (born / came into being / came to this world) on purpose and FOR a purpose? Yes you! G-d made you on purpose first! Then He made you for a purpose. The word of G-d says in Jer, 29:11 that G-d has a GREAT plan for your life! A GREAT PLAN!  Now think about this – what is “your’ definition of GREAT? Okay, keep your definition in mind. Put it on the shelf. Now say this out loud, “G-d said, “Now unto Him (G-d) Who is able to do exceeding, abundantly, above all I would ever ask or think according to His that worketh in us.” Ephesian 3:20. If G-d will give your exceedingly, abundantly more than you could ask for or think -- then what do you think His definition in GREAT IS!!!  Honestly, you cannot even begin to imagine it! Now back to YOUR definition of great! What was that again? Whatever it is know this, you cannot comprehend G-d greatness in your life. And it is He who said “I have plan for you a GREAT life… prosperous, peace… and more!” My friend, just trust Him. Even if it does not make sense to you. Trust it! Tell Him you trust Him!

So, by doing what you love, live for, breath, eat, sleep, think off – you begin moving into a higher realm of faith and this is where the material are easily manifest, the abundance life according to John 10:10.

I challenge you this month to define your destiny! I challenge you this year to begin walking in destiny!  Define your greatness in Him.  In Him - is the only way to really, really define who you are and how great you are and why you have such passion for whatever it is you have a passion for. When you understand who He is, you will better understand you. Did you know that the more you see who G-d is, the more you see who He is to you? The more you see who G-d is to you, the more you see how valuable to Him. {Excerpt from Suggestions for A Sensational Life by Paula White}. THAT MY FRIEND makes YOU GREAT! 

For me, that passion is winning souls and edifying believers through the theatrical productions. If you're not doing what you love right now, then take the necessary steps TODAY to make sure you're in the right vehicle -- a vehicle that uses your natural talents and allows you to work with joy! I DARE TO DANCE! In 2006, I double dog dare you to "do" your passion!,  to “live” your passion!, to “be” your passion!  Your destiny is who you are!  In this way, you will become prosperous in every sense of the word. 
As long as you living your passion and giving and helping others, joy and wealth will follow naturally. Live in passion. Live with purpose! Walk in destiny!  Never be normal! Live above average – LIVE IN UNCOMMON BREATHROUGH!
“AN UNCOMMON PERSON, HE OR SHE WILL DO ANYTHING TO ESCAPE THE TYRANNY OF MEDIOCRITY. HE/SHE UNDERSTANDS THAT THE DIFFERNECE BETWEEN FAILURE AND SUCCESS IS OFTEN THE DIFFERENCE IN DOING SOMETHING NEARLY RIGHT AND DOING IT EXACTLY RIGHT. HE / SHE HAS PASSION…AND THAT PASSION IS THE POWER TO PERSUADE AND INSPIRE OTHERS TO HEIGHTS THEY THOUGHT UNREACHABLE.

It is passion that will keep you going when all hell breaks lose against you!
It is passion that will keep you going when they talk about you!
It is passion that will keep you going when nobody believes in you but you!
It is passion that will keep you going when you have no money to carry out the vision
It is passion that will keep you going when friends and families forsake
It is passion that will keep you going when no one understands “this thing” you’re called too…
It is passion that will keep you going when you are broken, hurting, discouraged, misunderstood and misdirected! It is passion that persuades people!

Two last questions, “When was the last time someone “WOW’ about the ‘thing” you are passionate about?” “When was the last time someone “WOW” after interacting with you?” Think about it?
Your very life should demonstrate your passion even if you never spoke a word. The word of G-d says in II Chronicles. 31:21b – says, “He (Hezekiah) did it with all his heart (passion) and prospered
Friend, let me pray for you. Please repeat this prayer out loud, “L-rd, I love you! I complete and utterly surrender my life, my will, and my passion to you. Do to me what You know is best. I call you Father and Lord. I trust you; I surrender those stubborn things deep down inside of me - the secret sins, the pet sins. The ones I know I need to release…the ones I know stifles my growth in You and prevent me from living fully for You and walking in my destiny. Father G-d, please deposit within me the passion for YOU!  A FRESH, NEW PASSION FOR YOUR WORD, YOUR SPIRIT, YOUR PEOPLE, FOR SOULS! Give me a new passion for my destiny. May I walk in it completely, totally and may I die empty! In Jesus name, Amen!
It is my prayer that you begin to quickly see the manifestation of that prayer. I love you in Christ. Live with passion! Remember, it’s the passion you display that will persuade hearts to Him! Create a life of passion. Create a fantastic year! 

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It’s More Than 5,6,7,8
by Minister Stine McDonald, Judah First Fellowship, founder

When I first began in the ministry of the arts nearly 20 years ago, I wanted to get back into training so I could offer an excellent offering to the Lord.  However, every time I attempted to get into a class - God would stop me.  I began to be clear that He had some specific things to teach me first.  I had to unlearn that "5, 6, 7, 8" or that "performance mentality" and learn what it meant to be "set apart".  It was surely a process!  The Lord began to take me on a personal journey, through the scriptures and during my personal worship time...and even during the corporate worship at my church.  He began to move through me. 

I would see his choreography when I'd hear certain songs, scriptures on dance and movement would JUMP out at me as I studied His Word.  He was walking me through this and teaching me by His Spirit what He always intended for dance ...He wasn't taking it back because it always was His!  He was teaching me, His Way...His Way. 

 The scripture says that we have no need of a teacher because the anointing does the teaching.  That doesn't mean we need to get rid of the teachers, that simply means that teachers and students alike must rely on the anointing on them and through them to get the job done right! 

I found out when I did it the way He showed me, the anointing would be there on me and the dancers and the congregation would be incredibly moved, changed, instructed, healed...men would weep, women would answer the Call of God on their lives...God, doing the work, by His Spirit, according to His Word, getting ALL the Glory!   

And, had nothing to do with a class!  The presentation would be excellent and precise, the garments would be right on and the staging would be ideal...but still didn't have anything to do with class!  God was teaching me His Way, His Way.  I would start several dance ministry teams under the parent of a ministry that I would found, raise up an army of little dance ministers who would be used of God evangelistically in their dance...and I hadn't gotten to class yet!  Our rehearsals would be times of Him visiting us with His tangible presence that all of us worshippers live for.

About five years ago, God let me go back to class...I can't begin to tell you the appreciation I held for it. I hung on to every word the instructor shared and The Lord would show up in that class...still teaching me! 

Now because I was set apart for God's exclusive use, I heard things differently.  My dance and my hearing was now prophetic...when the instructor said the way up in the releve is down from the plie.  I heard God saying the way he elevates or promotes is from a place of humility and teachability.  When I hear the instructor say that the work is done from the inside, out.  I hear the Holy Ghost saying He's working out of me what He worked in me first.  When I hear the instructor say that the whole body is involved in the extension of one leg, I hear the scripture that speaks of the whole body of Christ fitly joined together and the power of being on one accord.  When I hear my instructor say that the key to a good stretch is in the law of opposition.  I hear the Lord saying, you won't grow without the opposition, so embrace it.  When I hear my instructor say that a good stretch occurs when we rest into it, I hear the Lord saying rest as I increase your faith!  When I hear my instructor saying "breathe!, that's where the buoyancy and endurance lies", I hear the Lord talking to me about His Word being breathed on to truly be the wind beneath my wings.  Isn't it interesting how God taught me dance outside of class and is teaching me life inside the class??? My God, this Dance from the Lord of the Dance will always be more than the 5, 6, 7, 8!

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Quarterly Update on Paneh

Paneh Dance Ministry is moving forward in 2006 with the help of the Lord.  Our newsletter has crossed the 200 member threshold.  This was one of our goals going into 2006.  A frequently asked questions (FAQ) has been added to our website; there you will find tons of information specific to Paneh!  Of course if you still have questions – send us an email.  Paneh Publications  (P.P.) has been launched to assist other ministries with website creation and printed documents.  P.P. is currently working with several other ministries; however Rhema Dance Ministry is the only one that is currently published.  Paneh is also in the process of putting together a vision statement.  It will supplement the mission statement outlined on our main page.  It will surround the core competencies of being a central point of contact for dance ministry resources, and to assist in education, encouragement, and exhortation of other dance ministers.

From Lakita:
Praise God from whom all blessings flow!  I am excited about what God is doing in 2006!  I have been afforded the opportunity to serve as O’Fallon Apostolic Assembly’s young people ministry acting president with the intention of becoming the actual president in July 2006.  Back in October I was allowed to create a dance ministry for the teens at my church which has been entitled Revelation.  They have grown from 2 to 5 members.  Also, JOYED UP! (Children praise dancers) are preparing to celebrate their 1st Anniversary with a commemorative service.  JOYED UP!   2005 – A year in Review DVD will be available for a donation of $10 (add $3 for S/H).

From Stephanie:
Greetings in the name of our savior and Lord Jesus Christ.  It is truly an honor to be able to reflect on this day and to inform you what’s been occurring in my life recently.  I am honored to say recently I completed a tour in Baghdad, Iraq and I have spent the past 4 months getting reacquainted with my husband and five daughters.  It has truly been a time of celebration.  I have been actively participating in the Women of Virtue ministry at New Life Interdenominational Church in preparation for our annual Regional Women’s Retreat.  I have also joined my church’s dance ministry—True Worship and I am blessed to have my older daughter, Sylest, ministering as well.  It has truly been a season of harvest for my family and myself.  Some words of encouragement for whatever season you may be going through:  Remember if you give up when it’s Winter, you will miss the promise of your Spring, the beauty of your Summer, and fulfillment of your Fall.   I am looking forward to this year and the wonderful blessings God has in store!

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Dance & The Word – Ceramics 101
by Lakita Humber

Let me start off by saying this article has nothing to do with scriptures that reference dance!  However this is a subject that has been on my heart for a while.  To reflect this change, the series name has been changed from Dance in the Word to Dance AND the Word.
When I was in high school I took a ceramics class.  I figured it was an easy class to counter the college prep course load I was taking.  One of our first projects was to make a bowl.  We walked into the storage room and we were handed this lump of clay.  It was soft, had no distinct form and didn’t seem to have much of a purpose.  I was given a picture of the finished project, instructions and set to work.
     In the Bible, clay is paralleled to mankind.  Gen 2:7 says “Then the Lord formed man from the dust of the ground” (or clay).  Jeremiah 18:6 says “Behold, as the clay is in the potter’s hand, so are ye in mine hand.”  Unlike us – God does not make mistakes (and I’ve made some UGLY vases).  I needed a picture to see my finished product, but God is the Alpha and Omega – the beginning and the end.  He molded us just the way we are to be!
     Dance minister, you may not be as tall as the next person or be dissatisfied with some other characteristic that makes you --- YOU.  We can not get caught up in why we were created the way were are.  Romans 9:20 says “Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why has thou made me thus?”  --- while we are like clay in many respects, once MAJOR difference is LIFE.  The ability to get jump right off the potter’s wheel.  A while ago my Pastor preached a sermon called “Stay on the Wheel”; the main thrust was to continue to let God mold and shape you --- do not get caught up in doing your own thing.
    In class the first thing we learned was how to prepare our clay for the kiln.  We couldn’t just shape it into the form of the bowl and put it in the kiln.  First we had to knead the clay until it was soft enough to be sculpted into the image I wanted.  The Lord continues to work on his children…sometimes He has to pull and tug at us until we are ready to be molded.
   My ceramics class was only 45 minutes so I was not able to finish sculpting in one day.  We were instructed to wrap up our clay molds in plastic to preserve the moisture.  Otherwise the clay would become hard and virtually useless.  I don’t know about anyone else, but I don’t want to be identified by my potter as HARD and VIRTUALLY USELESS.  Some would say stubborn!  Some students did not properly wrap their molds and had a very stiff lump of clay.  In order the soften the lump that had the add WATER.  In the Bible, water is represented as the HOLY SPIRIT!
Isaiah 44:3 says “for I will pour water upon him that is thirsty…I will pour my spirit upon thy seed”
John 7:38  says “He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.”
Stubborn folks that are not willing to yield to the Lord will only be cured by the Holy Spirit!
     I kneaded my clay and it was now ‘moldable’.  I can started sculpting now right?  WRONG!  (I just wanted to hurry and put my project in the kiln before the class was over).  I was then told I had to mold my clay into a cube, cut it down the center and inspect for air holes.  By this time I am thinking my easy elective is turning into more work than I bargained for!  My instructor explained that when clay with major air holes is put in the kiln it will crack and be destroyed so it is important to take the time to inspect the clay and make sure there are no air holes.
   These air holes are imperfections in our life.  However they are hidden until we are cut.  How do you respond when someone offends you…do you get on the phone and tear them down?  That’s an air hole.   Not ready for the kiln – lets do some more molding and shaping (we call it character building).  Rom 5:3 says “we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience, and patience, experience; and experience hope. 
    Once the major air holes are gone my sculpture is ready for the kiln (or fire).  I can put it in the fire with confidence knowing it is not going to crack or be destroyed.
   Dance ministers, we often talk about “going through the fire”.  Understand that as a children of God we WILL go through the fire.  Peter said “think it not strange of the fiery trial which is to try you”.  But find comfort in that as long as you stay in the will and let God work on you, you will not go through the fire until you are ready.  And when you do – take confidence in knowing you will come out refined and polished as pure gold!

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Are You Molded?
by Minister Stine McDonald

Foreword from the editor:
Minister Stine sent the following e-mail article to several dance ministers on her distribution list a couple weeks ago.  I immediately asked her if I could feature it for Paneh’s March newsletter.  For those of you who read “Ceramics 101” last month, you’ll notice it is along the same theme.  The Lord is definitely trying to tell us something! 
-----------------
God woke me up yesterday morning and gave me one word "mold".   I couldn't stop thinking about it and wondering what He was saying to me.  As I meditated on it ALL DAY LONG, I realized something:  We are constantly, moment by moment, being molded or shaped, but the question is…by whose hands?  The truth is we tend to self-shape, self-mold and we say “Oh God is doing such a wonderful work in me”…but we’re continuing the same thing that He did last season…what does He want for this season?  The same thing?  Oh, wait, I know, the same thing…a different way, right? I don’t think so!  We're actually in one of THE MOST amazing times in history and we can't afford to do the same thing we did before, it won't work in this season.

Dad Hagin (who's in Glory now) shared something in his book entitled "Understanding the Anointing", he said the Lord revealed to him that after being in ministry for 15 years, he had just going into the first phase of his ministry.  God told him that MOST people live and die and NEVER even get to the first phase of their ministries….that intrigues me. 

I don’t know about you but I constantly looooonnnnggg to be in the next place with God.  Lamar Boschman has a book entitled “The Future of Worship”.  And I wonder how is he going to tell us what the future of Worship will be like?  How does he know what will be pleasing to God is the Worship Experience in 2, 5, 10 or 20 years?   Only because this man has gone and pressed into God so tough, he got something awesome from him...I want that book! 

Are you hungry enough for what GOD wants next for your life and ministry to let HIM mold you, am I?  Or are we self-molding because we’re comfortable in the last “success” and don’t want to face the Fear of _________?  You fill in the blank.

I began hungering after Him nearly 20 years ago and though I admit I’ve gotten off track a zillion times, He always brings me back to that hunger, longing, thing that makes me press into Him like a dog after a bone!  It makes me greedy for His Word for Me, for this moment in my life, for His incredibly unbelievable orchestrated providence for my life, for His…I could go on and on.  My ear is poised (not itching) to hear not what He’s saying “new” but OH, what He’s saying “now”!  Not what He said last season…but what He’s saying in my Now Season.

Since I’ve been studying the Word for the past umpteen years, He’s always dealt with me with what’s called the duality of meaning.  That is, he’ll give me one word, like “mold” and I get what He’s saying in terms of shaping me…but then I understand also “mold” which is that toxic substance that occurs from moisture behind the walls of a house and can make one sick.  If I self-mold, I’m sick and don't even know it – I can get sick and make others sick around me…I also understand that the mold, in a scientists hand can turn into a medicine!  So, if I find myself self-molding, I need to put myself in the hand of THE Scientist and let Him use it for my healing and yours!

One last thought, when my son was a teenager (he’s 29 now and blessed me to be “granstine” 4 times over…his quiver is full), they had a term that was used to express embarrassment and would say “You’re Molded”.  I think that’s true if I self-mold…when I get to heaven, I don’t want to be embarrassed, I want to find out that I’ve gotten into the first, second, third, fourth, phase of my ministry and beyond!  I believe that the only way I’m going to do that is to stay hungry for HIS molding, to be willing to brake the old mold and start over, back up on the Potter's Wheel for shaping in my now season.  Yes, hungry like Moses who asked God to “show me your glory" and God responded by saying that there was a place beside Him and He would cover him with His Hand” somebody needs to say “handle me God”….and don’t let me even get started talking about the molding on the structure of a house, you meditate on that!

Min. Stine

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Whole Person Concept
by Lakita Humber

Ever heard of the “whole-person" concept?  It is a military factor used by senior leadership when qualifying prospects for promotion.  It is subjective and highly based on the opinion of the board.  The whole-person concept does not look at metrics such as how many awards you’ve won, fitness test scores, or commanders’ ranking.  It looks at what is done outside of military duties such as volunteer work, education goals, and the like.

 
While praying about what to write this month I kept hearing “whole”.  I started to ponder on the whole-person concept as I know it.  It is based on “filling a square”, which means doing what needs to be done in order to progress to the next rank.  As dance ministers, I propose to you, – to apply the "whole" person concept, not based on the military standards, but rather 1 Thessalonians 5:23:

And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The Lord is the one doing the promoting; not your boss, not my boss, not your seniority but God!  Psalms 75:6 says For promotion comes neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south.  But God is the judge: he puts down one, and sets up another.  Not only is the Lord about to promote us in the natural but spiritually as well.  Are you ready for promotion?  Have you applied the “whole-person" concept to your life?

Look at the scripture above again…”your whole spirit AND soul AND body”.  You can’t take care of one without the other.  In fact, what you do to one affects the other.  Below are a few examples:

As an active dance minister you may exercise regularly and be disciplined to eat nutritious, balanced meals, but are you feeding your spirit through prayer, reading, and studying the Word of God?

Let’s say you read the Word of God on a regular basis, have a good prayer life, and on top of that you exercise and eat healthy.  Sounds good so far --- but you’re a worrier.  You may pray, but you do not leave your problems at the altar and continue to carry whatever burden instead of releasing it to the Lord.  Did you know that worrying and anxiety can have an affect on your body and affect how you minister???

The combinations could go on – but the point is to be whole.  Apply the whole-person concept to your life.  Do a self assessment.  Be always conscious that there is more to YOU than your outward body.  Take care of your body, mind, and soul.  The Lord is waiting to promote His children…but we have to be ready!  Are you ready???

God Bless!
Dancing In His Presence,
Lakita

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Paneh Website Update

We are pleased to announce that Paneh’s website is undergoing reconstruction – more accurately a face lift!
The content on the page will not change, nor will the functionality (bulletin board, photo gallery etc) However the look and feel will be different.  The most obvious changes will be the way the site looks.  Some visitors may notice the pages load faster.  However the majority of the changes are internal programmer changes to make the site easier to customize and expand in the future.

  We will also be adding a guest book in the future so visitors can leave comments.  Prayerfully, the new design will be complete and ready to be publicized in May 2006.  Thank you for your continued support!

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The Importance of Balance
by Lakita Humber

As dance ministers some of you may be thinking this article has to do with poise and posture.  The type of balance discussed within this article is far more importance than dance techniques – or the ability to maintain bodily equilibrium.  This is the ability to put all aspects of our life into a harmonious arrangement that allows God to fully use us (His willing vessels) to get the glory.
   We need balance!  It takes direction from the Holy Spirit to be able to juggle responsibilities such as work / school, rest, recreation, church duties / ministry.  I submit to you “3 Ps” to gaining and maintaining balance in your life.

Purpose. 
Know your purpose!  If you have not sought the Lord about your purpose you need to earnestly do so.  Chances are that if you do not know your specific purpose you will tire yourself doing things trying to fulfill your purpose without any focus.  Everyone has a common purpose and that is to worship the Lord and bring Him glory!  Realize that you are unique – fearfully and wonderfully made!  God has a specific purpose for you!

Priority.
Once you know what your purpose is you can prioritize the things you have to do in your life (putting God first goes without saying!).  When your priorities are in order, God can bless you.  Look at Solomon, he didn’t ask God for money or a long life…but he asked for wisdom.  Something he realized was necessary to accomplish his purpose.  Because his priorities were in order, God blessed him with wisdom and wealth.

Plan.
When you know your purpose and have established your priorities it is time to make a plan.  Plans don’t always have to be extensive, but as the Lord reveals your purpose to you and you have set your priorities in order you can map out a plan.  Let’s again turn to Solomon as an example.  His plan was to build a temple (1 Kings 5:5) --- according to his purpose.  (Your purpose will reveal the direction you are supposed to take and be a catalyst for your plan to accomplish it).  Solomon had a plan, as you read through the 2nd and 3rd chapters of II Chronicles you’ll see that he gathered resources, organized the people, designed the temple, and set a time to begin work.

Dance ministers, this is not something to be considered lightly.  Your purpose, priority and your plan need to come from God.  Your life in your own hands is chaos, but when you surrender your all (job, family, ministry, life) into the hands of God….I’ll leave you with this quote that I’ve heard from a couple different sources:

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Introducing Newsletter Staff

     I would like to take the time to recognize / introduce the members of Paneh Publications newsletter staff.  There support makes this monthly newsletter possible and I truly thank God for their volunteering to serve in this capacity. 

Stephanie Ford, co-founder of Paneh Praise Dance and Mime Ministry is the senior editor of the newsletter.  She is also a writer.  Those that were signed up back in November 2005 should remember a dynamic article she wrote entitled “Distractions in Worship”.  The Lord really used her to bless us.  You can read more about Stephanie in her biography on Paneh’s website.

Sherry Wright-Gully, founder of SRD & Wright Performing Arts Ministry is our columns editor.  Sherry is a gifted playwright who lets the Lord use her to touch souls through a venue that is usually associated with entertainment – the stage.  Sherry’s plays are about real life issues which touch the heart.  Her last two plays (Single Wives and Dancing on the Edge) ended with people rededicating their lives to Christ.  To God be all the glory!

Minister Stine McDonald, founder of Judah First Fellowship and Bible Study on the Arts has volunteered to be on our staff.  I bless God to be connected to a dynamic leader in the ministry of dance.  Minister McDonald has already blessed us with 2 previous articles “It’s more than 5,6,7,8” and “Are you Moldable?”.  I am grateful for the seeds that she is sewing into this ministry! 

Pastor Dana Mosley, Inspired Faith Ministries in Columbus, Ohio is the newest member of our staff.  I look forward to your future articles.  Again I am grateful for your willingness to be a part of this ministry!
   
If anyone else would like to be a part of the staff send an email to news@panehpraise.com to let us know!  Alternatively if you do not want to commit to be a permanent staff member you are still welcome to submit articles anytime (review rules for submission).
This invitation is open to all subscribers on the list but I want to make a special appeal to the young people – I know there are quite a few teens on this list and we want to hear from you!  

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Dance Techniques in the Spirit part 2: Alignment
by Lakita Humber

Last month I wrote an article on Balance; later through prayer it was revealed to me that article was going to be part of a 3 part series called Dance Techniques in the Spirit.  This month I’ll continue that series discussing alignment.  As with balance, this is a factor that is very important in dance…we will look at the natural characteristics, and then see how they parallel.
 
  Body alignment is necessary for ease of movement and coordination.  In its simplest form, alignment can be defined as arranging our body in such a way that our bones are stacked in a line.  A closer look at alignment reveals that it comes from a dynamic series of inter-relationships between various bones and joints.

  Sometimes, proper alignment takes conscious effort – “drop your shoulders, knees over feet etc..”  But as you continue to practice proper alignment, you’ll realize that it becomes an unconscious part of your everyday life.

  Dance Ministers, just as bodily alignment is necessary for ease of movement…so is spiritual alignment!  Ask yourself ---“Am I aligned with the will of the Lord?”. If not, this will make it extremely difficult to move.  As you do the work of the Lord, be assured that he wants to bless you and use you --- but it is not enough to do the WORK of the Lord…it has to be the WILL of the Lord.  Your lifestyle has to line up with that of a minister at all times so that the Lord can use you!

  Alignment involves being in the right position, but it is also based upon your relationship.  How else can you be aligned (or know if you are properly aligned) if you do not have a relationship with Christ.  This is essential!  Your relationship with God is crucial to proper alignment.  Unfortunately, what often happens is instead of attempting to align with Christ with a FULL HEART, many desire to find out how “little” they can align with Christ if that alignment is contrary with the ways of the world.  Poor alignment doesn’t flow and can cause unnecessary discomfort. 

  So how do we obtain proper alignment (the will of God)?  Let’s look at the Word:

1. Galatians 5:16 says “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh”
2. Proverbs 3:5-6 says “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not to thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths”
3. Psalms 37:23 says “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.”

Dancing can be defined as moving rhythmically using prescribed steps.  As you dance with God – make sure you are properly aligned!
 
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Introducing Our Newsletter Staff (pt 2)  

Since our last article there have been several new staff members:
Jeanna Summers is a certified dance and fitness instructor.  She has instructed all phases of dance for 34 years and has been a dance studio owner for 17 years.  She serves as dance ministry leader at Living Word Church of Sylacauga, AL.  She self-published a book called “Disciples of Dance…a Practical Guide to Discipline and the Order in the Praise Dance Ministry” and manual “2 B FIT 4 the Masters Use”  Mrs. Summers is a Graduate of Word of Faith Bible College, wife of 31 years, mother to 3 children and 6 grandchildren.  I am honored to have her join our staff!  You can look forward to articles from her in the near future!
Karen Conyers from Greeleyville, SC has been a dance minister since 1998.  She has worked with a total of 11 dance ministries, helping start eight of them!  Currently, she serves as the dance director for the youth for Christ Praise dancers at Apostolic Faith Mission Holiness Church.  She also conducts praise dance workshops and is excited about the prophetic dance ministry that the Lord has birthed in her.  Karen is a wife of 3 years and mother to an 18 month old son – who thinks he can praise dance too!
Paulette Rolle-Alesnik, founder of Dare to Dance Ministry is known as the “passionate dancer”.  Paulette serves as dance director under the leadership of Pastors Randy & Paula White (senior pastors of Without Walls International Church).  For 13 years she has led children and adult dance teams.  She has appeared on TBN and CTN and recently selected as Florida co-director for Christian Dance Fellowship (CDF), USA.  Paulette is author of the book “Dare to Dance With Him – Devotional”.  She resides in Tampa with her supportive husband, Joe A. Alesnik, CEO of Lord’s & JP investors.  (You can read Paulette’s full bio at www.daretodance.org/bio.html ).  In September 2005 I had the opportunity to meet Paulette when she facilitated a seminar for dance ministry leaders.  She also wrote an article for this newsletter at the beginning of the year entitled “Pursue your Passion”.  We can all look forward to more dynamic articles from Paulette as she continues to motivate and exhort all dance ministers to do that which God has called us to do!

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The Value of Face Time
by Minister Stine McDonald

Face value is the value printed on a coin or paper money by the minting authority. We tend to use the phrase “take at face value” as a negative; i.e., we take something as true without digging past the surface. This has merit because I‘m a researcher and I firmly believe in digging for buried treasure; however; what “Face Value” really means in essence is what you see, is truly what you get. In other words, the value is shown (or shone) on the face.

The fig tree in Matthew 21:19 looked to Jesus as though it had fruit on it, but when the Lord got close, he exposed just the opposite and that tree had to go because it was in the way!

“And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig tree withered away.”

The fruit, the anointing, the effectiveness of our ministry comes from being up in God’s face…first! God is our minting authority and he will always impress upon us HIS WILL, what HE has purposed or meant - when we give Him His Face Time!  Before we face our audiences or congregations, we must first have the value of Looking unto Jesus! The bible says that Moses was a man who had that face-to-face relationship with God. After Moses spent time in God’s presence, he ‘shone’ so brightly that the people were afraid to look on him, and he had to cover his face with a veil.

My boy Moses was having an “in-person” experience. Today, we have email and voicemail and text messages and all of those things have taken the place of good old fashioned “in-person” experiences, but God still requires it and all the more now. A time where I face together with Him, my problems, my sin, my issues, my successes, my failures, my heart, my…you name it!. A time where He has required, commanded and expected me to be on a daily basis so I can then, and only then after facing HIM, face the hardships of the day and the embrace them. Face my critics and have a Word for them, all of them. Face those who want to worship me and point them to Christ, quickly! Face my insecurities and have a Word for them too! Face the rebuke and be quiet and receive it. Face my greatest fears and conquer them…for real.

As I look at that word “Face” in the Hebrew from Exodus 33:11, I see that one of the meanings is God’s presence. We know that in His presence, there is fullness of Joy and I understand from Isaiah that it’s by Joy that I draw from the water of the wells of salvation - that’s EVERYTHING I need…I get EVERYTHING for being in God’s face - that’s face value baby!

Even in our human interaction, communicating in person, is THE most effective way to speak. No matter how developed communication technology becomes, it will NEVER take the place of “being there”. When we’re “there“, we have so many things to our advantage. We have facial expressions, the fragrance of that person, body language and not to mention the looking into the eyes thing - man that will boost your ability to “get” what a person is saying like nothing else…all things being equal!

As mentioned, when Moses came down from his Face Time, he was glowing, that glow was a reflection of what he had seen or better yet, Who he had seen. I’m convinced that when we spend time looking AT God, we began to look LIKE God. When we look like God, people get the benefit of seeing Him in us! That‘s Amazing. Let’s face it, people don’t want to see us, not really, they’re after Him! Whether they cry out for the veil or not, whether they look on us as we minister or turn their heads away, they need a true representation of HIM…desperately!

As ministers in the dance, I know we get extremely busy, but this is just a friendly reminder that before we get on our feet to dance, let us get on our face to be minted. While we look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (and faithfulness), let Him “press” Himself on us.

There are so many resources available to us now and to God be the Glory! There are conferences and workshops all over the place (AND WE SHOULD CONTINUE TO BE DEVELOPED). However, I believe God is saying that in the midst of developing our skill and how we look, that it’s time to place proper value on the face-to-face with Him and develop who we look like.

As a dance minister, you are an End Time weapon of our God - you bring a penetrating Word to those who are spiritually deaf , they can no longer hear the preacher but they can “see” the Word God is speaking through you. You’re the answer to many cries unto the Lord, He uses you to root up and tear down, to build and restore and…to usher in His Presence like never before. So as you seek His face for direction, choreography, garments, finances, how to respond to your families, your leaders, your mentees, your pastors, your contemporaries and…for your life, may He bless you and keep you and like He did for Moses, may His face shine upon you and give you peace in Jesus‘ Name.

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Periodic Update on Paneh
by Lakita Humber

Praise God from whom ALL blessings flow!  I realized that we failed to do a quarterly update on Paneh --- the last one was in Feb 2006.   Instead of calling these quarterly updates, they are going to be periodic updates and will be published when we have new information to share with you all! 

Our website resources page has new information – be sure to review the new books listed as well as websites.  Also, a documents section has been added to assist those in dance ministry administration.  This includes paperwork such as: orientation packet, sample agreement, permission forms, invite letters, thank you letters, proposals, etc.  These items are yours to modify and share as you see fit!  Finally, we’ve added a guestbook to our site!  We’d love to hear from you….please stop by and leave us a comment!

Paneh Publications, our web design and printing company is doing well.  We have serviced several clients this year.  Below are our most recent works:
SRD Performing Arts Ministry (in progress)
Charles Heard Photography
House of Harvest Worship Center

We’ve also created various programs for weddings, ad / souvenir books, and service programs.  If your ministry our business needs a website or desktop publishing services….contact us!  We’d love to service you!

Personally, the Lord has really been blessing this year!  I am excited because I am starting to see the manifestation of various things the Lord has shown me.  I am truly humbled and honored to be used by God in this season.  Never has the need for ministry been so great.  The Lord is coming soon and he is coming for a church without spot, wrinkle, or blemish.  During the last update, I shared with you that I was acting youth ministry president at my church.  Since then, I have officially taken on the office of young people’s president.  Last month we hosted our annual iMPACT youth conference.  The Lord blessed beyond my expectations!  Souls we saved, baptized, set free, and delivered.  Now that we’ve experienced the “impact” we are preparing for the “AFTERSHOCK SERVICE”!  Anyone that has experienced an earthquake knows after the initial impact to brace for the aftershock….and the aftershock has the potential to be MORE POWERFUL than the original impact!  HALLELUJAH!!!!

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Bless-Sing of the Lord
by Minister Stine McDonald

I’ve been meditating on how the song and the dance go together in the scriptures. When Miriam went forth to lead the ladies in the dance with the timbrels, she was also singing - take a look at Exodus 15:21. Miriam answered (or responded with a song or a shout) to the ladies as they danced!

Many of our choirs, particularly in the Baptist churches, process into the sanctuary while they sing “We’ve Come This Far By Faith…” which I think is such an appropriate song for literally “entering in” to the sanctuary. As a matter of fact, the word chorus which is typically used to describe singers, evolved in meaning over time. That word actually refers to dance, it’s where we get our word choreography from! I love it when the dance breaks out in our choir and they love to watch the dancers. I used to sing in the choir but had to leave because the dance would come on me so strong during our worship services. However, we have one dancer who sings in the choir but comes out and dances with the dancers when God leads her to and it is not out of order, in fact it’s wonderful, it takes us up!!
Let’s look at the Lord our God - in Zephaniah 3:14-17:

3:14 Sing, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel; be glad and rejoice with all the heart, O daughter of Jerusalem.

3:15The LORD hath taken away thy judgments, he hath cast out thine enemy: the king of Israel, even the LORD, is in the midst of thee: thou shalt not see evil any more.

3:16 In that day it shall be said to Jerusalem, Fear thou not: and to Zion, Let not thine hands be slack.

3:17 The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.”

The word “joy” in verse 17 in the Hebrew is “Guwl” and it means to spin around under the influence of a violent emotion, like joy. So God is spinning around over us with singing! As a side note…our joy is an act of violence in the spirit realm and it can be both seen and heard. In Luke 15 in the account of the prodigal son, the older son heard music and dancing…he heard music AND dancing y’all!

We sing “Bless the Lord” very often during our worship services but what does that
mean, how do we bless the Lord? In Psalm 103:1 & 2, the word bless in the Hebrew is Barak and it literally means to bend the knee in praise, a salute or congratulations! So when I hear “Bless the Lord’ immediately, I bend my knee and that’s choreography as it is a calling forth for a specified movement!

Many of our singers are dancers and many of our dancers are singers too - let’s look at combining the song and dance, the dance and the song - God loves it! As a dance minister, I look at Psalm 47:6 and I “get” that God loves singing - he literally says it four times in that one verse!!!

I watch the steppers minister and as they dance, they shout…it adds a whole new dimension to their ministry! I get the benefit of their movement and their voices!

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Unmask Before Him
by Paulette Rolle-Alensnik

A word from the L-rd to pastors, leaders, their staff, their volunteers, and creative movement ministers (i.e.: dancers, mimes, flaggers, steppers, and the like).
 
The world hungers for originality - the real and best of YOU!  Praise & Worship is not the first 30-minutes of a church service.  And I am sure, as a worshiper, you too endeavor to understand (embrace) the heart of G-d in praise and worship and to express it in a way…the way our G-d created and ordained “us” to worship Him according to Isaiah 43:21{This people have I formed for myself; they shall shew forth my praise}!  We believe as artists discover true self and true intimate worship; they will seek ways to share their true self, their “true” love for Him with audiences around the world. For ONLY when we are our “true” self can we be our best; can we have a deep relationship with Jesus Christ; can we connect with diverse artists and performing arts teams from around the globe; only then can we empower and motivate others to be who G-d create them to be – “an original.

Lately, G-d has been calling my staff, the team and I to a deeper place in Him – to unmask before Him. In fact, the theme for our annual conference – “EXpress YOUR Worship Creative Arts Conference is “UNMASK BEFORE HIM.”

In this latter season of the year (the season of atonement), I anticipate that the sovereignty move of G-d will manifest the glory of G-d in an unprecedented way. I am expecting G-d to show up in this season (Tabernacles to Passover) and unmask some things in our lives...things we’ve hid deep in our hearts, our lives, in our past!!!  Issues that are causing us to fail, to mess up time and time again; that cause unnecessary struggles in our lives, that cause poor health in our lives, that cause us to be broke, busted and disgusted...that are causing us to sin (which means to miss the mark)... issues that are causing us not to love... ... or be loved; not be at peace, not to be married, not to have friends, not to graduate, not to have a job, not to have money, not to be successful in our lives. Things, issues, stuff – whether they be small or large - - these things, issues, stuff are holding us back from living to G-d full potential according to John 10:10 and Eph 3:20. Trust me on this one. I know this because I’ve lived it. I’ve lived in this place - a place of issues - in Lo Debar (the lo place). Yes, it hurt. He knows. Yes, you’re right and they were wrong.  He knows that too! {The L-rd is saying}, But today it does NOT matter.  Not today, or any other day from here on out.  G-d simply wants us to remove the mask from every area that we’ve masked over the years …to reveal the things, the stuff, the issues – and to trust Him.  He wants to bring healing to the deep places in our spirit and soul so that we may move forward in our greater calling, our purpose - OUR DESTINY!! For it is when we walk in our true destiny that we are the GREATEST blessing to the KINGDOM of G-d and to people of G-d. He wants you to be the best you, the real you. The “you” without the pretense and the masks. He wants the world to see YOU as He made you and as He sees you, WONDERFUL, BEAUTIFUL “YOU” is what He sees.

My friend, G-d has revealed to me that He will sincerely remove the mask… from a place of hurt and brokenness. He said He would destroy every mask that is freely given to Him. He will begin to do it even now and will continue throughout this year.
 
G-d is saying to us – “Today it does NOT matter”. It really doesn’t matter any more who hurt you and why because He wants to heal you from the hurt and help you forget the pain that person / people has caused. Let’s get our healing. We have no time to play church, to continue to dance, or sing or   and mime without power… to wave the flag around uselessly in His Holy Sanctuary. We must go deeper. We must be free from the inside out! Unmask before Him and allow Him to free your spirit to soar before Him and to express yourself in your original way – His way! Amen?! I’m so excited about this season. I sincerely pray you will be expecting to receive freedom and deliverance.

Let’s get real and reach out through the performance, celebrates the glory of G-d, and honors of our Lord and Savior in the splendor of the arts and advance His Kingdom.

Editoral Note: Paulette Rolle-Alensnik is the author of Dare to Dance with Him.  She is the lyrical dance director at Without Walls International Church under the leadership of Pastors Randy & Paula White.  Paulette is the conference host for Express Your Worship next month in Tampa, Florida.  Visit her on the web for more information!

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abunDANCE
by Lakita Humber

From the Latin word “abundantia” which means “fullness” or “to overflow”.  The definition is extremely plentiful or over sufficient quantity or supply.  Overflowing fullness. The word ‘abundance’ in Hebrew literally means dripping with fertility!

John 10:10 says The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

AbunDANCE means to have more than enough!

Dance ministers – it is time to start claiming the resources that are rightfully ours.  Stop operating in lack!  Reach up and get what is yours!!  No longer allow “lack” (or perceived lack) to hinder you from fulfilling the vision that God has given you!  I want to share a portion of Bishop Neil Ellis’ personal prayer that I received at the Dancing Preachers Int’l Conference:

I declare and decree that the wealth is no longer stored up for me but that it is being released right now.  I command satan to loose it, spit it out, cough it up and do whatever he has to do to release it.

Now, once it is released….are you ready to receive it?  This takes faith and obedience!  I love the story of Elijah and the widow found in 1 Kings 17. 

The Lord speaks to Elijah: “Arise, go to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and dwell there. See, I have commanded a widow there to provide for you."

Elijah does not ask questions, he moves on faith.  It doesn’t make sense how a poor widow is going to supply for him.  When his natural eyes allow him to evaluate the circumstances he doesn’t waiver, instead he boldly makes his request for food and water.  Not only was this widow poor – she was on her last meal and was preparing for death by starvation.  Elijah instructed the woman to make a small cake for him and afterward use the rest to prepare a meal for herself and her son.  This is what the Lord says:

The bin of flour shall not be used up, nor shall the jar of oil run dry, until the day the Lord sends rain on the earth.

That’s abunDANCE!  It was manifested because of obedience on the part of Elijah and the widow.  Dance ministers, the Lord want us to operate in abundance.  Be prepared to move when He says move, and give when He says give.  Remember, if the Lord gives you a vision….he will give you the provision!  It may not make sense to you – in fact, it probably wont --- this is where faith takes over!

Resource of the Month - November 2005: Dance Into the Anointing

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Resource of the Month - January 2006: Dr. Pamela Rutherford Hardy – Set Free Evangelistic Ministries
http://www.pamelarutherford.org
Full of information for dance ministers!  This includes but is not limited to DanceNet…an online mentoring, and a monthy newsletter (as far as I can tell you must visit the site to view it). Dr. Hardy also offers a 12 month intensive training institute for Dance ministers.  I communicated with Dr. Hardy about this and plan on taking this course next year.  Unfortunately registration was closed due to the overwhelming response so be on the lookout for next year!Set Free Evangelistic Ministries also hosts a yearly summit for dance ministry leaders.  Log on and read the testimonies from Nov 2005 summit…If it be the Lord’s will…I will be at the summit 2006…maybe I’ll see you there!Products available for purchase include the manual “Make His Praise Glorious” … a must have! This manual contains a collection of articles, techniques, scriptural foundations and much more.  Dance videos “Set Free to Dance” and “Celebrate Jesus” lead you through step by step dances.  Get your copies today!

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Resource of the Month - March 2006: Rain Rein Reign Ministries
March resource of the month is Rain Rein Reign Ministries!  The ministry is devoted to the teaching, development, and growth of Worship Arts Ministries in Churches, Communities and the Nations.  Imagine my surprise when I received an email to an online dance ministry newsletter.  I read the newsletter from February and all of the archived news articles as well.

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Resource of the Month - April 2006: Rhema International Dance Ministry

April’s resource of the month is Rhema International Dance Ministry!  Rhema is the right now word for deliverance!  These ladies allow the Lord to use them to set the atmosphere that can destroy yokes and set people free.  The dances that they minister are birthed out of an intimate relationship with God. 
  Their website (see the quick links on the left) has an extensive video library with 30 sec – 3 min clips of dances from different concerts.  If you would like to purchase the entire DVD, you may do so on their products page
  In June there will be a mass workshop where registrants will learn the techniques to glorify God in the dance.  New and experienced dancers are welcomed to attend.  This is for ages 5 and up.  The flyer and registration form is on their webpage.  If you have any other questions contact Lela Martin at rhemadanceministry@sbcglobal.net

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Resource of the Month - July 2006: Christian Drama & Mime Collection

This month’s resource is a Christian Drama and Mime collection which can be found at:
http://www.users.on.net/~pole/drama/drama.html

Resource of the Month - August 2006: Yielded Vessel Mime Ministry

This month’s resource is a Yielded Vessel mime ministry found at:
http://www.yieldedvessel.com/flashindex.html

Resource of the Month - September 2006: Dancing in His Presence: A Guide to Establishing and Maintaining a Dance Ministry

Dancing In His Presence: A Guide to Establishing and Maintaining a Dance Ministry by Margaret Brewington Douglass is a must read for church leaders and dance ministers!  It is especially useful for those starting a dance ministry.  It starts off with a solid biblical perspective. Is dance scriptural?  I’m sure you all are saying yes….no can you prove it?  This book will help you establish a foundation of Dance in the Word of God.  It then covers practical knowledge necessary to effectively run a dance ministry – remember; it is the little foxes that spoil the vines. 

Resource of the Month - October 2006: Rhema Dance Ministry Presents "Mercy Said No" DVD

Routinely I scour the Internet and bookstores for resources that will educate and edify dance and mime ministers.  This month, I didn’t have to look very far!  Recently I was handed a copy of this DVD and as I watched the production I was blessed all over again! 

Mercy Said No is a powerful drama and dance production written by Lela Gardner, founder of Rhema International Dance Ministry.  The cast is comprised of over 140 workshop dancers…most from the St. Louis and surrounding areas from ages 4 to 40+.  While the core cast rehearsed for months ahead of time, the workshop dancers learned the 2 mass workshop dances (mime and praise dance) and a children’s dance in 3 days!  To God be all the glory!!!!

Mercy Said No is a dramatization that traverses three generations —- at one point, each generation was ensnared by the enemy.  Mother Moore, Tracy, and Vicki all found love in the wrong places at some point in their lives.  Their poor decisions resulted in much heartache and suffering.  Ultimately, the enemy desired to kill them—and while they did nothing of their own to deserve it — God’s mercy said no!

While the play in itself was powerful, what awarded this DVD resource of the month is the move of God that is captured.  Somewhere around scene six the production was put on hold as God had His way!  The Holy Ghost feel in that place and people were filled, saved, set free and delivered!  Edited for time, the entire manifestation of God’s glory could not be included on the final DVD.  When all was said and done, there was not a single dry eye in the place!  Multiple people were filled with the Holy ghost that night and countless others where delivered and set free.

This is an excellent evangelism tool!  Purchase this DVD for yourself and your unsaved loved ones! 
You can get your copy at: http://www.rhemadanceministry.com/index.php?page=products

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JOYED UP! 1st Anniversary Service Recap
by Lakita Humber

JOYED UP, that is Jesus Owned Youth Expressing in Dance with Unlimited Potential, held their first anniversary service on Friday, Feb 24th.  The theme was “Dancing Into His Glory” --- and that is just what we did!  Each dance ministry that came out to celebrate with the children did so with enthusiasm and excitement.  One guest from St. Louis, MO said:

Thank you for inviting us to such a blessed event.  I loved the spirit and enthusiasm of JOYED UP and all those who danced before the Lord.

The children of JOYED UP were recognized individually, with a special recognition of those who are turning 13 this year and leaving the children’s dance ministry.  Most already seem excited about continuing with the teen dance ministry.

After all the dance ministries praise the Lord in the dance it was time to receive the Word of the Lord!  We sat at the master’s table and we feasted!  The Lord used our speaker to deliver a powerful message.  She ministered and prayed over all the children.  Lives were changed that night --- to God be all the GLORY!!!!
If you would like to purchase JOYED UP’s year in review DVD or the 1st Anniversary Service you may do so here:  http://www.panehpraise.com/main.php?page=products

Also, check the link above often as the anniversary service will be available for purchase shortly as well!

Pictured (from left to right)
Top: Roshanda, Diamond, Jaysha, Malesha
Middle: Kiana, Chelsea, Selena, A'Tiya
Bottom: Lance Jr., Lakita, Cameron

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On Saturday, June 17, 2006 at a church located in St. Louis, MO an awesome move of God took place in such a manner that the altar was flooded with souls slain in the spirit.  Rhema Dance Ministry, founded by Lela Gardner presented Mercy Said No, a drama & dance play that ministered to the hearts and minds of many.

Between the spellbinding drama and the anointed praise and worship of the praise team as they sing unto Zion in warfare to breakdown strongholds the presence of God fell and the cries of the people were made known in Heaven.  At this point, the play had to be placed on “pause” for personal ministry as souls were compelled to come to the altar.  The audience witnessed such a cry that it was made known to the people that this portion of the play was not an act. 

As a witness, the church was in awe!  I could see deliverance happening in the spirit realm and chains falling as I sat in my seat in prayer.  In that hour at least five (5) souls were filled.  With one Act still left to go, the play was permitted to continue after the altar call.  The dramatization of Mercy Said No closed with the dance selection by the Worship Dancers. 

The experience is unforgettable.  God used a cast filled with anointed dancers and singers to draw souls into His Kingdom.   This ministry of drama and dance was anointed by the very hand of God.  He placed His seal of approval on it from the start by using the praise team to lead the evening into the presence of God.

Mercy Said No was written by Lela Martin, and directed by Charlina Gilke. 

Event Recap: Dancing Preachers Int’l 2006: Kings and Priests
by Lakita Humber

The clarion call has sounded and those worshippers that had an ear to hear congregated on Paradise Island, Nassau, Bahamas.  The Lord’s presence was manifest throughout the worship services, sessions, and seminars.  This was not your typical seminar focusing solely on dance techniques and ability.  Rather this was a divine appointment, orchestrated by the Holy Ghost to bring His dancing preachers together for a season or praise, worship, and correction (yes, correction).  This conference was crafted for those a “Joseph anointing” – those that want to go higher levels ---- no, a new dimension in their worship, relationship and ministry.  This conference was designed for those that believe the Holy Spirit has imparted within the body of believers the POWER to take back what the enemy has stolen from us for far too long.  This was a meeting where the dancing preachers - kings and priests, received their marching orders from God’s appointed and anointed instructors and speakers.

No matter whom the speaker, teacher, or preacher was….the same message resonated throughout the conference:  You need a relationship with God!  This may seem like common sense, but too many people are “playing church” and operating with no anointing.  What is the purpose of your dance?  Where is the fruit?  Are people saved, set free, delivered and / or healed when you dance?  Does the man or woman of God have to press to preach after you dance or did your dance cause a shift in the atmosphere allowing the man or woman of God to flow effectively into the service? 

Each breakout session was taught was such passion as the instructors fervently deposited as much information as they could in the allotted time.  There were seminars provided such as: Running a kingdom ministry, Leadership, Dance Ministry Startup, Dance as Spiritual Warfare, Sacred vs. Secular dance, Mime and Choreodrama, Dance Ministry Administration, Dance and the Word, Ballet Techniques, Bahamian Junkanoo, and Kingdom Business….just to name a few!
Personally, this conference exceeded my expectations!  The Lord impressed upon me before I registered that there was something that he wanted to deposit in me at the conference….and He did just that!  I KNOW I’ve been changed.  I declare and decree the dance ministries on which I serve as leader (Paneh, JOYED UP, Revelation) shall also be changed!  Words can not fully capture the divine impartation that I received!

To Ms. Sabrina McKenzie (conference host) – I appreciate you!  May God bless you and continue to show you divine favor and pour out blessings upon blessings for you, your family, and every ministry that the Lord has entrusted in your care.  So many were blessed because of your obedience to do that which the Lord has called you to do.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

To all the staff, instructors, teachers and preachers – God Bless you all!  Your passion is contagious!  Thank you for equipping us for battle!

To all the dancing preachers, kings and priests in attendance – I pray that all the knowledge and impartations we received will stay with us and not fade away with memories.  I pray that we will review our marching orders, carry our weapons and prepare to fight!  I pray that our areas of the vineyard will never be the same.

And finally to all, I encourage you to visit http://www.sabrinamckenzie.com and sign up for her newsletter.  You will be blessed by the prophetic word that will be delivered.  Furthermore, you’ll have first hand information to the 2007 conference as it becomes available.  I will continue to share “nuggets” of information I learned at the conference in future newsletters…but I encourage you (dance minister, worship leader, pastor, intercessor, parent) to go for yourself!

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Event Recap: Dancing on the Edge (gospel stage play)
by Sheri Frost

Sherry Wright Gully through the Grace of God did it again Hallelujah!  Anyone who wanted to receive a blessing definitely received one if present for the play "Dancing on the Edge".    Everyone had a chance to laugh, to cry and to praise the Lord as they watched the work of the Holy Spirit manifest itself.

"Dancing On the Edge" received the power of God as dance ministries complimented each other.  The Illuminated Hands of Praise bought forth a ministry of dance as their hands expressed the glory of God in the darkness.  The individual mime dance before act two also bought forth God's Glory with distinctive hand and feet movements.

Lela Gardner, founder of Rhema International Dance Ministry, played the role of the leading star, Destiny Greene.  You could see the release of God's anointing as Rhema danced to "Behold the Lamb".   The Holy Spirit especially lit up the auditorium as Destiny Greene danced solo to "In the Midst of It All."   The greater moment of release came when Destiny prepared to give her testimony of how God had given her a second chance – her testimony was visually demonstrated with the help of Rhema through dance as she told the masses that “He Keeps on Lookin’ Out for Me”.  To God be the glory!

The role of Mother Greene played by Karen Renee Matkins was a difficult role.  As mother Greene worried about Destiny, she still had to maintain her composure as a strong, but gentle Christian mother.  Who would not want a mother like Mother Greene?   Lakita Humber definitely played her role as Angela Brooks.  Angela Brooks, the true, best friend of Destiny ministered to Destiny even when she neglected her as a friend.  If we could all have a friend as true as Angela, we would only need one.   The role Angela had to play was difficult given the situation of Destiny being mesmerized into fornication with the fast-talking, suave Nigel portrayed by Kitrell Brasselman.   The moment the anointed dancer let her guard down, she was seduced into a rollercoaster of emotions.  The consequences of Destiny's actions led to an emotional story of infatuation and false sense of security which almost cost her life and her salvation.

As Thessalonians 5:18 says, “In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus toward you". For all of you who were present, don't keep the good news to yourself.  Give thanks by testifying of the ministering you witnessed in the presentation of the gospel play, "Dancing On the Edge".

Editoral Note: Sherry Wright-Gully, founder of SRD & Wright productions is focusing on her newest production Unpleasant Excitement.  She is looking for male and female actors, singers, dancers, and models (for the fashion show incorporated in the play), director, and stage crew.  If interested, you can find her contact information at http://www.srd-wrightproductions.com

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