Ok, let’s add in plays too! Sure that is what we see, but what about behind the scenes! The costumes and the setup, that is all part of the Art Ministry. But there is so much more that could be under the Art Ministry umbrella.

God is the OG of creators, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and earth.” The first verse in the Bible! It goes on to tell us all about the creation story!

During my year of preparation, God kept bringing me closer and closer to His heart allowing me to see the beauty in the simple things. I loved creating and one day I was like can I do this for the Kingdom? Then I was reminded of Peter, the fisherman, that was his gift. When he met Jesus, his heart went with Jesus and he became a fisher of men. He used his skills and talents for Kingdom purposes and I thought that was beautiful.

I was under the impression that Art Ministry was only for musicians, singers, dancers, and actors but that would leave so many people out and creativity isn’t so narrow. Remember, God is the original Creator and we are made in His image thus making us creatives as well. Many of us stay in a role in the church that doesn’t make room for curiosity, exploration, introspection, and application in a creative way. The Art Ministry is for everybody to tap into the creative side of our Heavenly Father.

Years ago, I took an online certification course called Therapeutic Arts and facilitated workshops around the DFW. I went that path because I struggled with anxiety and depression and one of my means for healing was through creativity and I wanted to share that with others. When I closed the bookstore, God planted me in this quiet space with little distractions and He told me to create. I wrote about it in my book Living With God in the Season of Ambiguity. In this season, God opened so many doors labeled creativity, journaling, learning, and more. God was and is calling me to the Creative Arts Ministry and as I learn and develop my understanding and wisdom, God leads me to people, YouTube videos, books, and more. I was blessed to find this training called the Creative Arts Ministry Program with my now friend and sister in Christ Ashley.

God answered my question saying, “Yes you can do this for the Kingdom!” I was elated! All good gifts come from above. James 1:17 in the AMP says, “

¹⁷ Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above; it comes down from the Father of lights [the Creator and Sustainer of the heavens], in whom there is no variation [no rising or setting] or shadow ^[a]cast by His turning [for He is perfect and never changes].

These gifts were given to us through grace. To be able to use that gift and give it as a gift back to the Father for the Kingdom is a blessing.

Ashley and her ministry were a gift and blessing for me. We continued to communicate with each other and her ministry showed me so much. She recently started this YouTube Podcast Series called Blank Canvases: Stories of the Called, the description says,

In our series “Blank Canvases, stories of the called” we get the blessing of highlighting what God is doing all over the world through brave art ministers in their communities. Join us each time for a conversation with a new art minister and how they are using the creative process to share God’s love.

Her YouTube Series, her training, and her private group opened my eyes to see that Art Ministry isn’t just for singing and dancing! I learned about Prophetic Art, Prayer Art, and so much more. She actually interviewed me about the Art Ministry that I lead, The Creative Wellness Project.

The Creative Wellness Project, an Art Ministry

The Creative Wellness Project, an Art Ministry in the Dallas Fort Worth Area loves creating and writing. Many of the activities always include journaling or creative writing. The workshops and filled with encouragement, a call to action, and creative exploration through faith. We host bible studies and journaling, and we even started a Christian Women’s Publication. You will be reading a lot more about the Art Ministry!

Pastor Matt Tommey said, “You can’t have 5 talent ideas and dreams with 1 talent habit!” and that made me realize that even with the Gifts from God, you have to keep learning and working it so that you use your gifts with excellence. So, I purchased some books. Here are a few that I purchased and some on my list. Check out my Amazon List (If you do purchase I get some change!) So if you are interested in starting an art ministry, there are so many resources! Reach out to me if you have any questions!

Peace and Blessings,
CicelyRenee