Whisps of wood smoke from the smoldering campfires of history, and the smell of the mountains harbor the thought of adventure and excitement. The Storyteller will bring your students back to the fire through this unique and memorable Christian event.
CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS
CHAPEL SERVICES, SPECIAL PROGRAMS, AND DRAMATIC STORYTELLING PRESENTATIONS.
1. What aspect of your art form lends itself to in-school Christian programming?
· The “Storytelling” art form conforms to fit many different areas of the standard Christian school curriculum in teaching history as well as portraying the Christian values of our ancestors. The message of the cross is woven into the fabric of each presentation.
· Many of the props used in the presentations allow students to experience touching or holding a variety of animal furs, simple tools used by our ancestors, etc.
· Authentic tools such as stone axes, spears, tomahawks, etc. will be part of the props in storytelling. However, they will be for viewing only (not touching).
· A huge elk skull with horns attached is a central focal point and is part of a back-drop display with an array of flags from different times in history. The horns hold the many different props that are incorporated into the Art of Storytelling experience.
2. What do you hope to gain from working with young audiences?
· A Personal feeling of accomplishment in sharing the exciting history of our country as well as sharing the strength of our ancestors through their faith in Jesus Christ. I have worked with youth for the majority of my adult life. I love the interaction and the excitement they share, while experiencing new avenues in life. It is exciting to see young people recognize their need to draw close to Jesus Christ.
PERSONAL FULLFILLMENT: As I draw closer to retirement age in the years ahead, I look forward to continuing my ministry through sharing what has become a passion in my life . . . Reaching souls through ministering in the "Art of Storytelling."
ENLIGHTENMENT: I love history and feel it is important to portray it as accurately as absolutely possible through the characters used in the Storytelling experience. To enlighten others through the truth of the gospel is to find renewed enlightenment with each presentation.
3. If you have experience teaching your art form to children, describe some of the challenges and rewards.
CHALLENGE: Keeping the children focused towards the ultimate goal we are seeking to achieve in each session. To present a memorable experience including a thought provoking message to the challenges of life. To draw people closer to understanding the miracle of salvation and faith in Jesus Christ. The presentations are best suited to children from third or fourth grade on up.
· Challenges with keeping children focused and on track is when the scheduled time together is just prior to lunch, recess, or even just prior to the end of the school day. The greatest impact is generally during the early part of the day.
REWARDS: To see lives changed through the renewal of the spirit as explained in the third chapter of John.
The Ministry of
AMERICAN PATHWAYS
Russ and Cher have ministered across denominational lines for many years. There will be no doctrinal surprises when scheduling Church Ministry, Drama, Dinner Theater, or Storytelling Youth Programing.
OUR SPECIAL MISSION
To reach the lost through the presentation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. To encourage Christian growth in the family of God through Evangelistic Ministry, Illustrated Sermon, Singing, Drama, Dinner theater, and Classic Storytelling. To pray and seek God for wisdom and spiritual guidance in all aspects of life.