Puppet Ministry by Puppet Prospectors
The following information is from the website by Puppet Prospectors.
See http://www.mvcc.com/non/pp/index.htm for Puppet Prospectors own site.
A puppet ministry is an excellent way to teach Bible stories to boys and girls and to reveal the plan of Salvation. Puppets hold the attention of young children like nothing else can but then, children of all ages are thrilled and entertained by live performances.
Reaching Young People
Puppet ministries are an excellent way to reach boys and girls with the gospel message. Of those who claim to be Christians, 85% made their decision between the ages of 5 and 14 years of age! From ages 15-30 the figure drops to 10% and only 4% accept the Lord after age 30.
Where Puppets Can be Used to Reach Young People
Youth camps, vacation bible school, 7-day clubs, Sunday School, church clubs -- these programs and others like them are structured for teaching children Bible truths. A puppet ministry, woven into one of these programs, adds impact and retention of the story. Using puppets to teach provides an unforgettable, attention holding, visual reinforcement of important Biblical truths.
An Effective Ministry -- (on a small or large scale)
A Puppet ministry can be successfully executed by a cast of one or by any number of people. The ministry can be used in small Sunday school classes, an entire department or a whole church. The ministry can also grow into a production that becomes an outreach of the church and supported by the Church. It can to taken on the road to other churches and organizations providing the Church with a outreach ministry.
A Church Ministry
There comes a time when the church must provide opportunities for teens to minister or to have a ministry. A puppet ministry can be an excellent way for them to "test the waters" as it were. Opportunities for teens to minister are either hard to come by or not exactly what they would call "exciting."
The importance and experience of having a ministry at a young age cannon be overemphasized. It is a very important building block in their Christian life. We don't want to raise up just "hearers" of the Word, but "doers" as well. A Family Ministry
A puppet ministry is a great ministry for the entire family participate in. Not only is the ministry itself rewarding but it provides an opportunity for the family to work together as a team. Not only is the ministry profitable to those who hear it but to the family unity as they focus together on serving God. It builds relationships within the family and provides character, self-discipline, self-esteem and a sense of purpose.
Puppets and scripts can be tailored to individual personalities and skills. Everyone can play some sort of role and experience the joy of sharing God's Word with others. Getting Started
Follow the link to Getting Started to obtain more information on how you can have an effective ministry for Christ using puppets!
How do I get a puppet ministry started and what does it take?
Are you interested in starting a Puppet Ministry? Remember, don't be discouraged to try it just because you don't think you have the talent. All God wants are "willing" workers. He will supply the rest.
I'm HGAC. Where do I start?
If you're starting out "HGAC" (Haven't Got A Clue) our advice is to attend some puppet performances and observe. Then move on and get some small cloth hand-puppets and practice on children in the 2-year old bracket. They'll love it and you will get some great experience and insight. You can pick up the cloth hand-puppets at most toy stores or see our "critters" on our puppets page. Then What?
Get a game plan together for yourself. Decide on the Bible stories you would like to present, develop a script (you can purchase these), develop your characters and design your puppets. The best presentations are the ones that have been well thought out! What Resources are Available?
A puppet ministry can be as simple or involved as you like. You can make your own puppet characters, costumes, sets, etc. or, you can purchase them already to go. The Rhodes have books, tapes and props and even offer seminars to help you get started.
For the experienced puppeteer who would like to learn more.
Are you working with Puppets but want some tips on how to improve your puppets, your sets, voice, etc? There are many different avenues you can explore to improve your presentation and/or delivery.
Practice, Practice, Practice ...
Hone your puppet presentation skills by practicing and making adjustments for effectiveness based on audience response. Don't be afraid to try something different. Keep the message fresh and clear. Don't be subtle, be direct. Look for ways to improve your delivery through props, costumes, set improvements, voice-over, background music, etc. Keep your stories fresh. Don't be afraid to be creative in your delivery and execution. Getting Help
There comes a time when you need to get obtain some fresh ideas. There are organizations out there that specialize in providing fresh and innovative approaches to being effective with puppets. While the Rhodes have books, tapes and props you can purchase you can also look into other resources as well. Workshops and Seminars You Can Attend
It might be time for you to consider attending a workshop or seminar. Sheldon Rhodes has over twenty different sessions he conducts. Check out the workshop & seminar list and see if any might apply.
For those who have a Puppet Ministry but would like to improve and diversify it.
Learn how to juggle, perform magic with a message, write scripts, develop and maintain personalities, plus other tips. Don't be afraid to stretch yourself and add new features to your presentations.
Workshops and Seminars
In addition to having a ministry to children the Rhodes put on workshops and seminars for this exciting ministry. The seminars consist of workshops providing information and tips on puppets, magic, juggling and other topics. These workshops are held at churches, conferences, Sunday School Conventions, the Fellowship of Christian Puppeteers, the Fellowship of Christian Magicians and many others. Follow this link for a list of seminar topics. Network with Others
There comes a time when the best advice is to see what your peers are doing. Often times you can build upon someone else's idea and develop something unique and specialized for your own presentation. Here are a resources few you might want to check out. Have You Considered a Full Time Ministry?
Have you considered a full time ministry with puppets? If so, you've probably got a million questions. Sheldon or Vicky Rhodes will be happy to answer questions you might have about making this a full-time ministry. Send them an e-mail or give them a call.
Workshops and Seminars are a great way to get started or hone your existing skills. Following is a list of topics that are available. The ones with an (*) by them are the most popular and provide a good foundation for your ministry to grow on.
Following are a list of seminar topics that are available.
The Joy of Magic
Using magic is a great way to get a persons' attention. From there, it is not difficult to teach a lesson or get a point across. Many tricks in this lecture actually work themselves. In this case, all you need to do is practice with it. Build up your confidence that it actually is going to work. Once you have done this, you can devote your efforts into making the presentation enjoyable for your audience. MMThis lecture shares tricks that can all be done with a little practice and at little expense. Most of the items could be made right at home. Routines are given for each effect.
Tricks Of The Trade
Did you ever wonder how that was done? Well, you are about to find out. This lecture is perhaps the most bang for the buck you will ever find. You will learn how to do some of the classics of magic. All easy to do and each one with a Gospel message.
*The Magic of Chris Pringle
Everyone is familiar with the Pringles potato chips. How many magic tricks can be made using the empty Pringles cans? During this session, you will be amazed to find out just how great an effect can be achieved using the cans. The way the cans are disguised, you probably won't even recognize them as Pringles cans! You will find that you can make each of these effects for use in your own presentations. Come and enjoy the "Magic of Chris Pringle."
*Magic With A Message
"How did he do that?" Find out for yourself and use it to share the Gospel message. You will be shown how you can make many of your own magic props. This is a very practical class. You will also see how magic can be FUN. Many of the effects require little skill or practice. Many of them work all by themselves, but teach powerful messages.
*Learn to Juggle
At one time or another, all of us have watched with amazement as a clown in the circus, a performer on television or a friend has juggled. But have you ever thought of yourself as a juggler and using juggling to teach Biblical truths? With proper instruction and a little practice, you can do it. This is a hands on session for those willing to give it their best shot.
Juggling is catching, try it!
Even if you only have the basic juggling skills, and are interested in using those skills to present the Gospel, this class is for you. This is a hands on session where you will be taught Gospel applications using various juggling props. Bring any props that you have and be ready to share illustrations that you may be using. The Gospel can be presented while juggling, so keep it up!
*Puppet Ministry Basics
A puppet can do anything, ALMOST. Learn what it can and should do as well as some of the things that should not be done. Rules for mouth synchronization, manipulation, etc. will be covered. How much practice is required to a professional job: What are the E's for a puppet? It is easier to learn the right way than it is to try to break bad habits that have been self-taught.
*Is A Puppet Ministry For You?
What is a puppet? What are the four basic types of puppets and which is best for me? What are some qualifications of a puppeteer? These are just a few of the questions that will be discussed. We will also talk about how to find team members, ways to "solo" and find out what the most important thing is.
*Script Writing
Perhaps the most asked question is "Where do you get scripts?" The best source of scripts lies within you. But how do you go about getting them out? There are some very basic steps to go through that will guide you in selecting a topic and writing a script to teach it. Having problems in the area? Bring them to the class and get rid of them. Script writing doesn't have to be a headache or a pain in the neck.
A Place To Start
For those, who may be new at puppetry or are just thinking about starting, this is for you! Should you buy puppets, scripts, or stage? What advantage is it to pre-record or do it "live?" Where can you find the needed finances? This is square #1. Don't pass up this session if you still fee a bit "wet behind the ears."
*Develop and Maintain Personalities
Each puppet character must have a very distinct and recognizable personality. Four ways to determine personalities will be discussed as well as ways to be sure that the personality really becomes and stays with your character. Several areas will be discussed that you should consider when developing a new character or to enrich a present one.
Developing A Theme For A Puppet Program
Planning a program around a certain theme can be a real problem, especially if you want the pro gram to be interesting, informative and worthwhile. What can you do to make it that way? Should you use just puppets and how are some ways to use them in conjunction with other teaching aids? Learn the steps of putting together a full program centered around one thought or topic.
Many actual program ideas will be shared.
How To Kill A Puppet Ministry
Why would anyone ever want to kill a puppet ministry? Many times they don't want to, they just do, and don't realize why it died. There are thirteen things that are sure to put an end to a puppet ministry. You will find out these ways and steps to take to prevent them. Also, what to do if your ministry is seriously ill and about to die.
Making Puppet Patterns and Puppets
"I just can't afford to pay that much for puppets." Then why not make them yourself? Oh, you need a pattern? We'll make that too. How? Well come to this session and find out. It's not as difficult as you may think. Remember, a Stitch in time, saves a Dime.
*Puppet Construction
Does the catalog price of a large mouth, rod-arm puppet make you swallow your teeth? If you are like most people, you can't afford to spend over a hundred dollars for each puppet you need. In this class you will actually make your own. Once you have made one, others will be even easier. There is an additional $35 material fee for this class and you will need access to a sewing machine and scissors.
Puppet Care and Maintenance
Do your puppets seem to be getting mistreated, abused, torn up and dirty? Maybe you need some hints as to how to keep your puppets looking good and make them last longer. They are not easy to make and cost a lot to replace. You say you have young people using them and they just won't listen. We've got some suggestions that you may find helpful.
How To Operate Hand/Rod Puppets
This is your opportunity to see first hand the actual techniques used to make hand/rod puppets come to life. Learn the various types of entrances and exits, voice synchronization and hand gestures. Proper technique is the key to believability.
Voice Yourself
"I just can't seem to do more than two or three voices. What can I do to get more characters?" Learn how to voice yourself and come up with several new voices. It's perfectly likely that you have ten or twenty more voices in you that you haven't found a way to get out yet. Find out how.
Nursery Rhyme To Puppet Time
Once upon a time, there was a nursery rhyme, it had a lot to say, in a very special way. The kids all loved it dearly, and understood it clearly. The message was so neat, and easy to repeat. And then it dawned on me, "if only kids could see, the Bible clearly taught, in this nursery thought." And so this nursery rhyme, was used in Puppet time.
Learn ways to take simple, well know things, and make them into valuable spiritual lesson tools. How to use simple things to confound the wise. How to use puppets to expand on things already known.
*Stage Design and Construction
"What do I really need in a puppet stage? What materials work best and how can I have something really nice without having it cost me an arm and a leg?" Find out as we talk about these things and many other areas such as practical demonstrations, portability, and storage. Stage Lighting and Sound Systems
The greatest news in all the world will not be received if people can not see it or hear it. If your puppets are working in the dark and can't be heard beyond the first row, you need to consider some necessary changes. Low cost do-it-yourself systems as well as ready-made versions will be presented. Learn how colors and light will help create new and exciting expression, including black light. Learn where and how to place microphones and speakers and what type is best.
Full Time, When and How
Are you cut out for a full-time puppet ministry?
This session is only for those who are already in or considering a puppet ministry as a career.
So you think you want to be a clown. Maybe all of your friends already think you are one. What are some of the things you need to consider as you develop your character? During this class, we will talk about the different types of clowns and what make each one unique. We will also go over "Clown Etiquette" and the importance of name selection. Find out what makes a great clown.
Storytelling With A Purpose
The art of storytelling is an ancient one. Storytellers have always been highly admired and respected. Storytelling was one of the main teaching principles that Jesus used. By learning some simple storytelling techniques, you too can be a good story teller. Christians have the best story to tell, all we need to do is to make it interesting enough that others will listen.
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We have had more and more people ask where we get our puppets. Most people are surprised to find out that Vicky makes all of the ones we use. She is willing to make some for you at a fraction of the cost you may be looking at. The prices listed include shipping, handling and insurance. Feel free to call or e-mail if you have questions otherwise mail us a check and we'll rush your order out to you. The address is on the bottom of this page.
Puppets
GRANDPA -- Foam based, sculptured professional puppet with elastic straps in the mouth. Wears size 4T clothes. One of a kind. $175.00
GRANDMA -- Foam based, sculptured professional puppet with elastic straps in the mouth. Wears size 4T clothes. One of a kind. $175.00FATHER -- Foam based, sculptured professional puppet with elastic straps in the mouth. Wears size 4T clothes. One of a kind.
MOTHER -- Foam based, sculptured professional puppet with elastic straps in the mouth. Wears size 4T clothes. One of a kind. $175.00
LITTLE BOY -- Foam based, sculptured professional puppet with elastic straps in the mouth. Wears size 4T clothes. One of a kind. $175.00
LITTLE GIRL -- Foam based, sculptured professional puppet with elastic straps in the mouth. Wears size 4T clothes. One of a kind. $175.00
CRITTERS -- We offer a wide variety of Country Critters. Each puppet is crafted in fake fur and most have squeakers sewn inside them. If you are looking for a certain type of animal, there is a good chance Country Critters makes it. Give us a call. $23.00
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Here are some organizations you might be interested in affiliating with and some sites on the Internet to check out. Even though an organizations name, doesn't include the word puppet, sometimes they have something regarding puppets. The list has some secular and Christian resources.
Organizations
World Clown Association
Administrative Office
PO Box 1413
Corona, CA 91718
Christian Jugglers Association
c/o Nathan Dorrell
1709 West Seminary Drive
Fort Worth TX 76115
817-924-4826
E-mail: cja@juggling.org
Resources On The Web (links to web sites)
See http://www.mvcc.com/non/pp/puplinks.htm for the links for theses sites.
Puppet Scripts from ZBH Web
One Way Street
Puppet Productions
Fellowship of Christian Magicians
Juggling Information Service
Clowns Of America
International Jugglers Association
European Jugglers
Association
JuggleStay
Jewish Jugglers
Kids On The Block
Svenska Jonglörföreningen
Puppeteers of America
Rick's World of Illusion
The Magician's E-mail Page
The Puppetry
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