The Creative Arts has always had an important role in Zion Praise Harvest. And the best place to learn more about them is none other than at our very own, CAM vision day!

Last July, for the first time in CAM history, CAM was streamlined into 6 electives; Song Writing, Vocal-training, Dance, Photography, Worship Leading in Cell Groups, and PA.

Before I begin, I want to share a verse from Matthew 23:10 “Nor are you to be called ‘teacher’, for you have one Teacher, the Christ”. What we learn at CAM and at any other time is from God, and Him teaching you anything - can only be good stuff.

Song-writing was a new elective, and it was presented by KC Gan, from Singapore’s City Harvest Church. One of the songs written by him that I really enjoy is called “The God I Know”.  The introduction of Song Writing as an elective proved to be a hit and many turned up to listen to KC share his experience and techniques. One of the main pointers was the importance of the melody.  KC also shared his key aspect to song-writing experience; the most important aspect of a song is its chorus, as people are more likely to remember the chorus of a song first. KC had a lot to share of his experience in song writing, and he was willing to impart that knowledge to us.

Another elective aptly named Finding Your Voice, is meant for those who have a passion for singing and can carry a tune.  This elective is meant to help them find the melody in their voice. Basic exercises were taught to help aspiring singers with their song.

Next up, is Dance for Life! If you caught Step Up 3, saw their cool moves, and had that deep burning desire to jiggle, wiggle or just jump around, this would have been your thing. For many people around the world, dancing has always been a form of self-expression, and the dance elective conducted at CAM vision day allowed you to portray that expression... without looking like a clown. One thing I learnt is that dance is about an expression with the whole body, so everything from facial expression to body movement has to be in-sync, certainly a point worth knowing for aspiring dancers out there.

A picture speaks a thousand words; which is why CAM vision day included an elective on Photography, to help nurture the talents of a new generation of photographers to take up the slate. Tips and tricks were shared with participants to bear in mind when taking that next shot and to enhance their knowledge on equipment and photography.

One of the most important activities in cell groups is worship, so a good worship leader is needed to enhance the experience. Worship Leading in Cell Groups was similar to a group discussion with shared experiences of worship leading such as: to take note of time, using simple chords and connecting with the crowd etc. All these pointers help enrich the minds’ of future worship leaders and aid them in creating a more memorable cell experience.

PA, the one ministry that knows it has done a job well when no one notices any mistakes. Anything relating to sound is fundamental to this ministry. PA at CAM vision day introduced the basics of PA systems and equalizing, as well as certain systems that are used just to make sound heard well.

Luke6:47 says “I will show you what he is like who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practise.” So for those who went for CAM vision day, remember to put into practise what you learnt, for it won’t do any good just being in your head. For those who did not go, I encourage you to do so next week, because there is always something to learn there.

Written by Blog Writer 
Darren Smith