NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)–This summer in Orlando, teens won’t be using their quiet voices. Instead, they’ll be making a joyful noise and learning to “live out loud” as part of SonPower, an annual student music event sponsored by LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention.
“SonPower is a student music event for youth choirs, which distinguishes it from Centrifuge and other camps,” said Greg Skipper, of LifeWay music events. “And it is for youth who are Southern Baptists, as well as others. We want SonPower to be something students will describe to their churches as a musical experience and a life-changing experience as well. We want to see students grow spiritually through the mission opportunities provided during the event. It’s a platform they can build and grow on.”
Held each summer at the Sheraton World Resort, SonPower will take place this year July 8-12. Organizers have already met their goal of 1,400 students enrolled, Skipper said, and registration for 2003 is now open.
During the weeklong event, students will put their musical skills to the test by learning a new youth musical. This year’s musical, “Live Out Loud,” includes narration and drama and was written specifically for the event by Dennis and Nan Allen. The husband-wife composing and writing team from Brentwood, Tenn., also will assist with rehearsals and conduct drama workshops. A recording of the musical, led by Dennis Allen, will be made on the final day.
While SonPower is focused on creating a musical experience for the students, Bible study and worship are also integral parts. Students will participate in daily Bible studies and worship sessions led by Dennis Allen and by Tom McCoy of Thompson Station Baptist Church in Thompson Station, Tenn. A special student rally also is planned for July 10 at First Baptist Church Orlando.
Christian recording artists FFH and Russ Lee will perform during the week, providing students with a perspective of the Christian music industry, Skipper said.
“SonPower is important for character-building,” he continued. “The students are with peers in a setting away from their church. This is a sharing time. It’s a growing experience.”
Skipper said last year more than 70 teens made decisions during their week at SonPower, ranging from rededications to accepting Christ.
But he said SonPower isn’t just concerned with music. Students are challenged to participate in various mission opportunities throughout the Orlando area, working in cooperation with the Greater Orlando Baptist Association. Teens engage in activities ranging from construction, canvassing neighborhoods, backyard Bible clubs or others local missions. More than one-half of the churches already registered for this year’s session are signed up to participate in various mission opportunities, he said.
Next year’s SonPower will be held at the Sheraton World Resort in Orlando from July 7-11, and students will once again take part in music and mission activities. To register for SonPower 2003 or for more information, call or e-mail Cindy Roycroft in the SonPower office at (615) 251-2739 or [email protected].
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