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"Joyful Twirlers" is a youth ministry which focuses on witnessing and sharing Christ's love, building up the Kingdom, taking our faith to "The Street" through parades, public events and personal care homes. While baton twirling and marching are fundamental to "Joyful Twirlers," the emphasis is on the main mission which encourages others to seek Christ and sing praises to His name (Evangelism). Most of our coaches and helpers are volunteers and costs to participate are kept to a minimum. Children are provided with quality instruction and are not required to have prior twirling experience. The ministry strives to effectively build confidence and foundation in Christ so that our youth may be bold in their faith. We welcome all children and families desiring to join regardless of church affiliation, economic status, race, religion, etc.

There are multitudes of intricacies to this ministry, however, at its very core, its very essence, is the direct interaction with the children. That willingness to mentor and instruct children in the way they should go. Like the church body, this ministry is a living, breathing entity were-by directors; coaches, volunteers and the children have an equal value and gifts that can be shared. Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. Romans 12:4-6 (NIV)

We are to be making disciples. Living what we believe - faith in application. This ministry intends to witness; choreography, uniforms, music selections, all meant to glorify God and edify those who participate. We are to raise our children up in the way that they should go.

We encourage each of the members/twirlers to treat each other with respect and to work together as a unit. There is power in unity! We, as coaches and directors promote fellowship by partnering members to work on projects together; for example working on duets. Every so often we will pair off twirlers whose assignment is to choreograph a one-minute duet. It is important to take time for members to get to know one another and there are numerous activities which aid in doing so, for example; everyone is assigned to find out about another person's favorite color, animal or food is. We then share with the group what we discovered about the other person.

There are many opportunities for the parents and guardians to minister to each other. So often a prayer need or concern is brought forth or discovered through casual conversation. These are opportunities to rejoice together in celebration and for offering understanding and support in times of difficulty. Practical help can be offered for example; assisting with transportation to events or practice sessions. Scholarships may be awarded if the troupe has acquired a sponsor or is financially able.

Because there is a time of group prayer at every practice session, there are always prayer concerns that the children express on behalf of parents, grandparents, friends and even pets. These are very real concerns of children. Each child has the opportunity to lift loved ones in prayer. All of our twirlers join hands in group prayer, but not all have been ready to verbalize their prayer need to others at first. Each of my members has come to be comfortable praying with others and excitedly waiting their turn to express their prayer needs. I once had a mother observe her two daughters at prayer time and noticed that they stayed silent, but it wasn't long before one of them simply mentioned "my grandfather." That was the beginning of many other prayers to come. More opportunities to minister.

The troupes often visit and perform at personal care homes/nursing homes. The twirlers particularly enjoy these events, many stating that they like them best of all. The audiences are so supportive. There is an immediate reward and further affirmation. Prayer is always said on behalf of the residents as well as a sharing of our devotion and love of Christ. Music, which imparts a clear message of faith, is used throughout our visit and performance.

The "Joyful Twirlers" ministry is faith in action. It is wonderful to reflect on how the Holy Spirit moves when we are sharing our love of Christ with nursing home residents, in parades and at public events, and with each other. God has worked powerfully among us. There are always blessings even when our faith feels tested. And, our faith can be truly tested, as many of you may already know. Satan would love to get a hold and destroy all things giving honor and glory to God. "Dear friends, do not be surprised a the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when His Glory is revealed." 1 Peter 4:12-13 (NIV)

The "Joyful Twirlers" perform in parades, amusement parks and public events like "Fall Festivals" and "New Year's Eve" family celebrations. Throughout these performances we utilize contemporary Christian music and invite family and friends to be with us. Often family and friends will walk along with us waving flags and handing out candy while we enthusiastically march in the parades. The parades are particularly exciting. There is much fanfare and a lot of energy.

We are to be witnesses to the joy of Christ in our lives. Historically there have always been forms of public celebration and parading. As quoted by a friend and talented artist, Michael Walter; Parades provide a focal point of observation and reflection, are visual and auditory and are socially edifying. A sense of community is at its height. There is an equal opportunity to participate and the audience is equally important. Parades are one of the few noncommercial events. Free to the community and not commodified. Well said, Michael.

Learn more about the "Joyful Twirlers" ministry by clicking on the Missions Headings. Also, feel free to contact me by phone at (412)271-7417. I will be happy to offer more information and assistance.

God bless,

Jessica Nigra, Director/Founder