Workshops to unleash arts

A Martinez church is planning to hold a conference to help parishioners reclaim the arts and "unleash" their creativity in ministry.

Stevens Creek Community Church, 600 Stevens Creek Road, will hold Creative Worship Conference 2005 at 7 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.

Admission is $35 for individuals in groups of four or more, or $40 for individuals.

"We are very passionate about reclaiming the arts for God and providing a place where we can train artists and so many talented people," Todd Sturgell, Steven Creek's creative-worship pastor, said about the third annual event. "I think it will be a great time for people to come and get encouraged, energized and hopefully learn some things in the process."

On Friday, Jeff Deyo will kick off the conference with a concert performance.

The conference, which Sturgell said will include all aspects of art, will feature 15 workshops such as Web design, printed material, how to advertise, vocal, drama, dance, audio, video and more.

"There's nothing that compares to art, music, film and different things that move your emotions, to allow you to hear what God is saying to you," he said. "We just think that art is such a powerful tool to point people to Christ."

Sturgell also said the conference will show participants how certain forms of art have worked for the church.

"It's going to be great for churches, if they're looking to do a contemporary style service, or if they're interested in incorporating more art in the church," he said.

IF YOU GO:

What: Creative Worship Conference 2005

When: 7 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday

Where: Stevens Creek Community Church, 600 Stevens Creek Road, Martinez

Cost: $35 individually for groups of four or more, or $40 individually

For information: Visit www.stevenscreek.net or call 863-7002.