Rally Day 2005
Rally Day marks the start of the Church year and traditionally takes place at YMCA Camp Sloper in Southington, CT. The theme of this year's Rally Day, held on 9/11, was "Being Fools for Christ!".
Prior to the start of the service, several clowns were observed roaming through the crowd and blowing bubbles while the old favorite "Be A Clown" played through the sound system.
After welcoming one another, our Senior Minister, The Rev. Dr. Gordon E. Ellis began the service with the "Church Family Announcements". It was a surprise when, prior to reading the announcements, Gordon donned a red clown's nose, multi-colored wig, and funny-looking hat!
While attempting to read the announcements, Gordon was continuously interrupted by a mysterious clown stage left.
Eventually, we got to sing our first song led by Ken & Crystal Sullivan accompanied by three accordian-playing clowns (formerly known as Karlene Achambeault, Ted Andrzejczuk & Michael Scirocco).
Without further incident or disruption, the service proceeded with "The Call to Worship", "Hymn of Praise", "Call To Confession", "Prayer of General Confession" and "Assurance of Forgiveness". Click HERE for the Rally Day bulletin.
The sermon was delivered by the "mystery clown" who turned out to be Rev. Ruth Anne Martz who specializes in "Christian Clowning". The title of Rev. Martz's sermon was "I AM A CLOWN".
Rev. Martz started the sermon by removing her oversized glasses, fake nose, hat, and wig to temporarily reveal her true identity. With the help of "Valentine the Clown", Rev. Martz led the congregation on a metaphorical journey transforming back into a clown using makeup and other props -- all the while delivering her sermon.
The service continued with clown skits based on MATTHEW 4:18-20 ("The Fishing Expedition") and GENESIS 6-9 ("Noah's Ark").
Just when the Congregation thought it was safe, kazoo's were passed out with instructions to play along with "the band" to "Jesus Loves Me".
Next, another skit was presented titled "Cast Your Burdens".
A time of silent prayer followed by spoken prayer was experienced leading to Communion by Intinction.
Following Communion, the Congregation sang and played their kazoos to the "Hallelujah Chorus" while the clowns attempted to provide the words using cue cards.
The service was concluded with the "Benediction" and "Response" and then it was off to the pavillion to eat and enjoy the fellowship of our church family!
FACES IN THE CROWD...
Christian Clowning Resources & Links
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