This summer marks the twelfth year that Samford’s Center for Worship and the Arts is hosting ANIMATE, a worship and arts camp that invites middle and high school age students from the community to grow in their calling and steward their gifts. It is also for their mentors to help grow them in their own leadership.
Emily Andrews, executive director of the center, described the heart behind this camp.
“It’s a place where young people can grow in faith, develop their creative gifts and explore how music, worship and the arts can be part of their leadership right now,” said Andrews. “At its heart, ANIMATE helps young people discover that their creativity belongs in the life of the church.”
She emphasized how the arts should not be treated as an extra part of a church, but a huge part of discipling those within the walls of the church.
Many of Samford’s worship and music students serve as the camp staff that work to mentor campers, lead worship and other activities as well as create a healthy and safe space for all of the campers.
The community and local churches can also be a part of the camp by encouraging enrollment and spreading the word about the camp. Adult mentors are also able to participate and learn from this camp.
“That intergenerational dimension is central to ANIMATE’s vision: equipping adult advocates to become ambassadors who encourage and empower young people in the life of the church,” said Andrews.
Andrews talked about ANIMATE’s unique approach to teaching by having students interact with their God-given giftings instead of just watching others do it.
“It brings together worship, theology and the arts in a way that is both thoughtful and hands-on,” said Andrews.
The camp also puts a great emphasis on the fact that they are not the future generation of the church, but a part of the church now. The encouragement of questions, creativity and growth in leadership is something that ANIMATE works hard to accomplish.
This year’s camp will introduce a new songwriting focus for those who decide to choose that path. During registration, students are able to select their artistic or creative interests and then get to be on that track for camp.
ANIMATE will be on June 24-26 on campus and will have a number of different opportunities with guest leaders and familiar faces from Samford.
Arts & Life Editor
