Sure, puppets can be entertaining and funny, but when it comes to ministry they can also be an important tool in teaching people about God.

Puppeteer Khamla White learned this as a teenager when she saw firsthand how these lifeless objects could be brought to life to spread the Gospel.

She will host the Solid ROCK Puppet Ministry workshop each Friday next month for adults and children aged ten and older, interested in learning the craft.

Ms White spoke with The Royal Gazette about the upcoming series and about how she’s seen puppets bless the lives of countless people over the years.

Q: How did you get involved with puppet ministry?

A: I got involved in puppet ministry at my previous church, Calvary Gospel Chapel, when I was a teenager. The youth leader, at the time, Gary Simons, now the pastor at Cornerstone Bible Fellowship, invited me to join the puppet ministry. I was a part of the ministry at that church for several years until I went away to school. When I started attending Cobbs Hill Methodist Church in 2006 they had recently started a puppet ministry there. When Tony DeSilva, one of the youth leaders at Cobbs Hill Methodist Church there found out I had formerly been a part of another puppet ministry he asked me to assist with the puppet ministry at Cobbs Hill Methodist. He quietly stepped back and before I knew it I was leading the ministry. Psalms 150:1 says: “Praise Ye the Lord. Praise God in His sanctuary, praise Him the firmament of His power,” which is one verse that I base my work in the ministry on.

Q: What about it appealed to you?

A: I have always loved puppets and in particular the work of [Muppet creator] Jim Henson. I love the idea that these lifeless objects can be bought to life and for a few moments we almost forget that they are not real. The fact that puppets can be used to spread the Word of God appeals to me. Adults and children alike enjoy watching puppets and it may have the ability to hold someone’s attention longer than other forms of ministry so it can be a very effective ministry. Puppetry is also a fun way to praise the Lord. I also like the discipline factor involved. Puppetry is not easy, it is actually very physically demanding and requires a lot of practice if you are trying to put on a good performance.

Q: How have you seen people’s lives changed or bettered through puppet ministry?

A: The Cobbs Hill Methodist Solid ROCK Puppet Ministry has had the opportunity to minister within our church and at several venues outside our church. It’s always rewarding to hear someone in the audience yell out, laugh or sing if they are blessed by the message we have given or a song we are performing. We usually can’t see them because we are behind a stage but it is still such a blessing.

Several of our children at Cobbs Hill Methodist have now grown up through the puppet ministry. I have been blessed to watch them grow into responsible, hard-working and dedicated Christians eager to spread the Word of God.

Q: Why did you decide to host these workshops next month?

A: I have been approached on several occasions by other churches, or individuals, to teach puppet manipulation or give tips on how to start a puppet ministry and how to grow the ministry. For the last couple of years I have attended a ventriloquist convention overseas, and dabbled in learning ventriloquism. These conventions have helped me grow as a puppeteer as I have learned from professional puppeteers. These workshops will give me the opportunity to share what I have learned with others and to also get some fresh ideas as I do not consider myself an expert on puppetry, just someone who has a love for how the Lord can use it as a form of ministry. We are also looking for children who may not be affiliated with another church who may be looking to join our puppet ministry.

Q: What can people expect to learn from these?

A: For the youth leaders that attend, the first Friday will be geared more for them, though the input from children will also be welcome. This will be a sharing and discussion time as I share my experiences in the ministry, and what I have learned in developing and growing the ministry. Those in attendance will be encouraged to share their own experiences and ideas. The remainder of the Fridays will be focused on teaching the children, and any interested adults, basic puppet manipulation. They will learn and practice a programme that I have put together. The last Friday we will prepare for a performance at Cobbs Hill Methodist Church on Sunday, November 30 at 9.30am. Those who can participate in the performance are welcome to take part. However, participation in the performance is not required as many may not be able to due to their obligations at their own church. We will also have a pizza party on the last Friday to thank everyone for their participation.

Q: What would you say to encourage others to take part?

A: First I think it will be a lot of fun as I think puppetry is always fun. It will be a good chance for children and adults to fellowship with other Christians who share an interest in puppetry and puppet ministry. Cobbs Hill Methodist Church has a pretty impressive selection of puppets which those who attend will get to see. Hopefully everyone will leave the workshop with something useful that they can use in their own Christian walk.

Admission to the Solid ROCK Puppet Ministry workshop is free, but spaces are limited. To register, or for more information, contact Ms White on 747-2086 or kjlwhite12@gmail.com.