PHOTO SUBMITTED / The Expressions of Praise Dance Ministry at the Rhema Word Worship Church in Brookhaven consists of (back row) Iscah Rumble, Shayla Tate, Angel Weston, Alarria Townsend, Sonia McWilliams, Angel Haynes, Kristy Kiddens, (front row) Zoe Hilliard, Lorenda Reese and Sierra Edwards.

Music is a large part of the worship service for many churches. Hymns and gospel music seem to accentuate the message that a priest or preacher or minister has delivered to the laymen.

Whether it’s a delicate piano, powerful organ, contemporary guitars or regal trumpets, instruments add another dimension to a service.

For some, musical accompaniments lend themselves to expression in a more unconventional way, through dance.

“This is not a performance, although people may clap afterwards,” said the director of the Dance Ministry at Rhema Word Worship Church in Brookhaven, Lorenda Reese. “Liturgical dance is a visual display of words and songs. It is an expression of praying.”

Liturgical dancing is a dance that is performed at church service or church-related events. The movements are not meant to be complex ballets or theatrical shows; they are another way to worship similar to playing an instrument or singing in a choir.

This Saturday, Reese will be hosting a clinic for people who have church dance groups, are interested in starting a group or just curious about what dance worship is.

The clinic will be held in the State Room at 112 E. Cherokee St. from 10a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The workshop is $15 and will include: a dance booklet, handouts, refreshments and a light lunch.

Reese said she is also working to have a song with choreography to teach attendees. Tickets may be purchased before the event at www.eventbrite.com/e/why-we-move-praise-dance-worship-tickets-12137510621 or at the door on the day of the event.

Minister Monica Reagor with the Sisters of Worship International Worship Arts Ministry will be the guest workshop clinician for the “Why We Move” intensive praise dance workshop.

“I want this to break out through the area and watch it rise up,” said Reese. “I would like to see more churches incorporate dance or arts ministries in their church.”

Reese said that people who attended the event are invited to bring flags or any other type of ministry items with them that would pertain to dancing.

According to kingjamesbibleonline.org there are over 30 references to dancing in the Bible including David dancing for God in Samuel and praising God through dancing in Psalms.

“It’s been amazing to see the response to the workshop,” said Reese. “I prayed about it and God opened the door.” Reese said that she has already had 41 people sign up for the clinic from Mississippi and Baton Rouge. She is expecting at least 50 people to attend.

The program says participants should bring a Bible, wear comfortable loose fitting garments for movement activities, should not wear jeans or graphic tees. Hair should be off the face and no dangling jewelry should be worn. Participaants should bring a small hand towel, and dance shoes/socks can be worn. Participants must have a printed ticket for admission.