Press Release Summary = Churches are increasingly introducing liturgial dance into their services as a way of adding a new dimension to their praise and worship of the Lord.
Press Release Body = LITURGICAL DANCE
Liturgical dance is being increasingly re-introduced into services of Christian worship. Behind the choreography is the belief that the dance must be a heartfelt expression of faith and prayer. It is a physical expression of worship. The aim is not to dazzle audiences but to deepen their religious experience. However, the dance must not become such a personal expression that it means nothing in particular to the rest of the congregation.
Liturgical dance can include Folk dance, modern dance, jazz, interpretive dance, spontaneous dance, and circle dance to name a few. There are many starting points for the choreography . For example a song which has \"danceability\" and allows the word to be interpreted as movement. The dancers could also move to the music and see what emerges. Sign language can be used as a basis to create dance moves. Some Christian church groups have been inspired to create dance by the exercises of St.Ignatius Loyola.
The dance can express many aspects of worship. Praise where the dancers are offering thanksgiving. Worship would be expressed through reverent, yielding movements. There are celebratory dances and those expressing the fight against evil which need to be forceful, bold and confident. Travail and trouble would suggest movements conveying reaching out to God for help.
Simplicity and humility are characteristics which are emphasized. Liturgical choreographers have to carefully integrate their choreography into rites that have been established for generations. All works have to be created encompassing the peculiarities of each sanctuary\'s architecture.
Dance might accompany the entrance of the clergy and choir into the church, might replace the sermon, serve as a meditation or accompany an ancient prayer.
Christian women\'s groups are at the forefront of introducing liturgical dance. Neither physical ability or experience with dance are required. Dancers need to work together for a significant period of time before dancing in the actual service. This develops rapport between dancers in both faith and movement. If there are great differences in technical ability then the choreography must be leveled at the least experienced to preserve integrity of movement and its meaning.
Some groups only dance for their own congregations while others tour to other places of worship. There are congregations who are involving the youth in dance, fitness and nutrition education. Christian based dance schools impart character development, self-discipline, self-control and self-esteem. The students are taught in a positive atmosphere with strong dance technique. Some dance ensembles have women\'s groups, young adults and children\'s groups.
What liturgical dancers wear is not a costume. It is a garment of praise, symbolism and meaning. Modesty is important. Advice is offered on the type of undergarments, the depth of necklines and the appropriate length of dresses and skirts.
The International Christian Dance Fellowship is an ecumenical fellowship that links individuals and organizations involved in dance and movement ministries around the world.
http://www.dance-to-health-help-your-special-needs-child.com with acknowledgements psalm121.ca/dance.html
2022
