The Tribune

In an effort to reach the country's young people with ministry that is both spiritually enriching and academically beneficial, Grace Community Church has invited a renowned group of American slam poets to the Bahamas.

The group, whose members live in different parts of the US, specialises in the spoken word performance art which has seen a rise in popularity all over the world, particularly with the youth.

"Grace is very fortunate to host the poets who are sure to challenge young people suffering with identity crisis, an increasingly violent society, value compromises and spiritually desensitised lives that lead to meaninglessness. Our young people feel an increasing sense of being trapped, of being chained," said Pastor Leroy "Tinkle" Hanna.

The four poets will minister their unique blend of poetry, drama and storytelling in 10 performances under the theme "Break Every Chain: An Encounter with the Spoken Word."

There will be two 80-minute performances each day at the Church beginning Monday, January 15, through Friday, January 19. The morning performance will take place from 9.30am to 10.50am, and the afternoon one from 12noon to 1.20pm. A final performance will be conducted on Friday, January 19, at 7pm so that community and church youth groups may attend. On this final evening, all of the poets will take the stage. All performances are free to attend.

"This young but seasoned group of poets are known by the stage names Ezekiel, Tina B, Chriss Webb and Janette...IKZ. Through their urban-styled presentations they will deal directly with many of the issues our youth are struggling with today," said Pastor Hanna.

"Their message deals with the bondage that results from poor choices, sexual promiscuity, violence, drugs, folly, and so many of the other vices facing youth will all be addressed in language they understand. Aside from the spiritual blessing we hope this ministry will bring, we realise that it also has tremendous benefit for language arts development."

Pastor Hanna said Grace Community Church has been planning this outreach for almost two years and feels extremely blessed to bring this multi-talented group to the Bahamas.

"Grace wishes to extend an opportunity for students from your high schools to experience and be challenged by such a fine group of performers. We are extending this ministry opportunity primarily to students in grades 10 to 12. We feel that this group will be better prepared to receive the mature themes that will be addressed. However, we believe students of younger ages may also benefit," said Pastor Hanna.

While most of the performances are already booked, there are still some seats available during the morning and afternoon sessions. If your school, for whatever reason, has not registered to attend, please contact the church at 394-7223 and arrangements will be made to accommodate your group. All performances are free, but schools are responsible for their own transportation.

"The church looks forward to our schools benefiting from this rare opportunity to experience a group of spoken word poets at the top of their craft," said Pastor Hanna.

Persons will be confirmed on a first come, first served basis. You may send as many students you wish to attend. Church and community youth group leaders may confirm their group's attendance for the community performance on Friday, January 19, by calling the church at 394-7223 or e-mailing gracebahamas@yahoo.com.