Let It Shine will put a smile on your face, a song in your heart, and make you laugh out loud with their unique Blacklight Ministry. The group’s purpose is to share God’s love through puppets, song, and special effects! Its broad appeal is sure to fascinate both young and old!
Let It Shine is comprised of several youth and a support team of adults from Bethel United Methodist Church in Lower Burrell, PA.
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Let it Shine!
Bethel UMC's Blacklight Puppet Ministry
Their beginnings were rather humble...
In August of 1999, 12 youth and 4 adults traveled to Knoxville, TN, for Youth ’99, an international gathering of United Methodist Youth. One of the programs they experienced was blacklight puppetry. The youth were simply amazed!
To fund their trip, the youth sold spiritual stock to members of the congregation. Upon their return, a stockholders meeting was planned. The group decided to put together a blacklight number and chose the familiar Noah song, Rise and Shine. They bought one blacklight, borrowed another, fashioned a make-shift stage from some old partitions and plowed forward –
experimenting with technique and effect as they went along.
Their performance was met with such enthusiasm from the congregation and performers that they committed to creating several more numbers for church events in December. The stage and lighting equipment was made using inexpensive materials. Members of the community who saw the performances began to book shows and the rest is history!
Booking a Show for Your Organization...
In order for the group to perform, complete darkness is necessary. Performances last approximately 40 minutes. Cost of the show is $175 (additional charges for mileage may be added) which helps to benefit youth ministry, as well as upgrades to our equipment and materials for new numbers. Ten percent of all proceeds are donated to mission projects of the group’s choice. The show is fast-paced, and the music selection is familiar to all ages. Puppet monologues and skits add a wonderful message and variety to the show.
For more information or to book your event, contact us at blacklight@bethelumc.us.
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