×

Puppet ministry marks 40 years

WARREN TOWNSHIP — Forty years ago, Patty Bennett wanted to be part of the church ministry at the Warren Revival Center and joined the puppet ministry.

Today, Bennett, along with Danika DeVault and Michelle Crockett, lead the program known as God’s Kids Puppet Ministry.

Bennett said she has served as the adviser and director of the ministry that has five teens involved in leading programs with puppets both in the church and the community.

“I started as one of the puppeters and have worked my way up to the director,” Bennett said.

The ministry held a recent Christmas program with the theme “Camp Christmas.”

In addition performing at Warren Revival Center, the puppet ministry has performed at other churches, schools and such community events as Kidz Fest held each summer on Courthouse Square in Warren.

Bennett said she likes being able to do something behind the scenes and not in front of people.

“I liked being able to do a ministry where I did not have to be seen speaking in front of people all the time,” she said.

Training to be the next directors are DeVault, who has been involved nine years, and Crockett, who has been involved for 12 years.

Crockett said she has always admired all that Bennett has done with the program.

DeVault said Camp Christmas tells the story of the animals in the forest getting ready for Christmas and learning what the true meaning of Christmas is from a park ranger.

She said the teens practice once per week and hold a puppet ministry program during worship for the children every two to three months. They also have done programs for the Warren Family Mission.

Bennett said she enjoys being part of the ministry.

“A lot more goes into a puppet show than you would think. There is a lot of work with props and skits,” she said.

Pastor James Holbrook said the puppet ministry has been part of the church since it started more than 40 years ago.

“I have never seen a puppet ministry like this one that has lasted so long. I get a lot from watching myself during worship. They have a strong message to offer,” he said.

The ministry also is involved and participates with the church’s Sunday school program and vacation Bible school.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
     

COMMENTS

[vivafbcomment]

Starting at $4.85/week.

Subscribe Today