Company Keepers
Dance Ministry Monthly
The Dancer's Prayer
by Sherry Traylor (Inspired by The God Chasers)

What can I render unto you Lord, for all of Your benefits toward me? Your grace is
immeasurable. I owe you my life! I commit to you my body as a living sacrifice, which
is my reasonable service of Worship through my dance. Jesus, I will praise you
continually. Receive my dance of praise as sweet savor to Your nostrils.

Continue to direct my path and order each movement by the Holy Spirit. You are my
Master and I will place nothing or no one above You, not even my flesh.

Daddy God, continue to use me for Your glory. Thank You for prospering the gifts of
my dance. Thank You for being my Chief Advocate and Wise Counselor.  I have come
to understand, it's not about me in my movements, it’s about a humbled heart of
worship after the dance is over. You alone are my ultimate Covering and my only
Judge.

I will glorify Your name forever in the Dance.
In my time of ministering through dance, I have been (more often than not), the
spectator in the waiting. Whether ministering during a dance concert, church
service, or special occasion, there is a time to stand back and observe. Have I felt
frustrated? Yes. Bored? Yes. Impatient? Yes. I have also experienced
overwhelming joy, thankfulness, and the desire to break out into spontaneous
praise. What is it that makes others seek to worship Him along with the dancer?

I agree that some dance presentations resemble a performance more than a
ministry. Some ministries have been classified “angels” on the platform and
deemed “divas” offstage. It is often a challenge to get up and “minister” in an
atmosphere that has been saturated with entertainment.

It is at these times that I feel the most vulnerable. There is the mounting pressure
to “set the atmosphere,” “tear down strongholds,” and “usher in the Presence of
the Lord.” Several times after ministering before people, I have been approached
by many who said that they “didn’t know how to respond to what they felt on the
inside.” I do not believe that this is the design for public worship.  

As a movement minister, I realize that I am not merely a spectacle for others to sit
back and critique. For corporate worship to occur as a result of the dance ministry
presentation, I realize my responsibility is that of a Praise & Worship “Usher.” In
understanding my position as a dance minister, I agree with Michael & Vivien
Hibbert’s statement in the article Expressing the Moods of the Holy Spirit: “The
ultimate in worship is not the expression or worship, but the knowledge of His
presence. It is not the music or the songs of the Lord or the dance – these
expressions must come out of knowing Him- they must be a result of worship rather
than being acts of worship.”
Worship Defined

I have realized that the definition of worship of today unfortunately, at times, is viewed as a one-person or small group
responsibility (i.e. the recent rise of ‘Superstar’ Praise & Worship Leaders and the explosion of Praise & Worship teams
in most churches). Upon studying the scriptures regarding worship, I found many instances of Worship, Incorporated.
This is how Webster defines
incorporate: 1) To unite or work into something already existent so as to form an
indistinguishable whole: to blend or combine thoroughly 2) To form into a legal corporation b: To admit to membership in
a corporate body 3) To give material form to: EMBODY.

One Hebrew word for worship is
tsaba' (Strong's 6635) or tsbadah (from Strong's 6633); meaning, a mass of persons
(or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); a campaign, literally or figuratively (specifically,
hardship, worship): appointed time, army, battle, company, host, service, soldiers, waiting upon, war (fare).
Tsaba'
(Strong's 6633) to mass (an army or servants): assemble, fight, perform, muster, wait upon, war.

For instructions concerning New Testament worship, we see a few Greek words that point to the Lord’s desire for a
unified body in worship.
Episunagoge (Strong's 1997) from 1996; meaning, a complete collection; especially a
Christian meeting (for worship): assembling (gathering) together. We also see this in a few other words:
Homothumadon (Strong's 3661) unanimously: with one accord (mind), and in Sumphoneo (Strong's 4856) To be
harmonious, to accord or stipulate: agree (together, with). Sumphoneo is akin to the word Symphony. A symphony
consists of many different instruments, but they all play the same song, in the same key, in time together, to be
complete. This reminds me that, as a movement minister, I have to be careful not to think that the dance is the only
component being used to impact the worship experience. It is indeed an awesome sight when all aspects of worship
including instruments, singing, and movement function together to produce Worship, Incorporated.

The Incorporation Process

There are several passages of scripture that highlight the importance of Worship, Incorporated. Let’s take a look at 2
Chronicles 29:27-29 (NKJV):
“Then Hezekiah commanded them to offer the burnt offering on the altar. And when
the burnt offering began, the song of the LORD also began, with the trumpets and with the instruments of David
king of Israel. So
all the assembly worshiped, the singers sang, and the trumpeters sounded; all this continued
until the burnt offering was finished. And when they had finished offering, the king and
all who were present
with him
bowed and worshiped.”  Though the Lord has called many to dance, we must also remember that dance
ministry is not assigned to everyone, but movement (bowing) was done by all of the assembly!

Yet another Scripture points to the power of corporate unity:
“And Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God. Then all
the people answered
, “Amen, Amen!” while lifting up their hands. And they bowed their heads and worshiped
the LORD with their faces to the ground.”
(Nehemiah 8:6) We see here again, that all the people lifted their hands
and bowed (movement) corporately. Just to make sure that we understand how powerful corporate worship is, 2
Chronicles 7:3 informs us that,
“When all the children of Israel saw how the fire came down, and the glory of the
LORD on the temple,
they bowed their faces to the ground on the pavement, and worshiped and praised the
LORD, saying: “For He is good, For His mercy endures forever.”
Unity is essential to the worship incorporation
process.

The Present Worship Report

We often use the scripture to talk about worship in spirit and in truth. Though the Bible accounts for us many instances
of Worship, Incorporated, it seems as though, for a season, many factions of the worship department broke off into their
own “companies.” The choir, praise team, musicians, dancers, and ministers of the Word often decided separately what
was the most important concentration for themselves, while ignoring the corporate umbrella of congregational worship.
Competition inevitably arises as to which unit is the most responsible for leading the people into a worship experience.
Recently, I have begun to witness musicians, singer, and dancers participating together in corporate praise & worship in
major congregations. A return to the biblical model has begun: NOW IS THE TIME!

Future Worship Projections

Not only was this a pattern for the past, but we are informed that future worship shall also be Worship, Incorporated. The
Bible gives a several glimpses into the future worship portal:
All the ends of the world shall remember and turn to
the LORD, and
all the families of the nations shall worship before You." (Psalm 22:27). It is wonderful to see that
neither denomination, race, nor geography will hinder the future of Worship, Incorporated as prophesied in Revelation
15:4:
“Who shall not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy. For all nations shall come
and worship before You
, for Your judgments have been manifested.” Not only will this happen in the Earth realm,
but in the heavenly Kingdom also:
"All the angels stood around the throne and the elders and the four living
creatures, and fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God."
(Revelation 7:11)

The Bottom Line: Business Matters

Worship, Incorporated must lead to a return on the investment that our Heavenly Father has placed in us. Although He
created each one of us uniquely and with great care, He orchestrated it in such a way that we as many members fit
together. He has designed us to succeed and has plans to prosper us. We must realize that each of us is essential to
the success of Worship, Incorporated. Like Jesus in Luke 2:49, I must be also about my Father’s business!

Sources Used:
http://www.eliyah.com/lexicon.html (Hebrew and Greek Word definitions)
Make His Praise Glorious Manual (119)
Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture references are from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION of the HOLY BIBLE.
* Rekesha Pittman serves as our Editor-in-Chief and is founder of Rain Rein Reign, Inc. (www.rainreinreign.com) which is
devoted to the teaching, development, and growth of Worship Arts Ministries in churches, communities, and the nations through
conferences, workshops, specialized training, online resources and various media outlets. She is blessed to be Founder of the
Las Vegas Liturgical Dance Network. She also serves as West Coast Regional Coordinator for the International Dance
Commission (
www.idcommission.org).
Lord you are worth more than this world to me
You are the air I breathe
You worth more than my paycheck
You are worth more than me getting rest
I love You
I love You

LORD, You are priceless
Oh LORD,  You are priceless
I love You
I seek You
I want to please You
You are priceless

In my heart
You are priceless
You are more than this whole world to me
That is why this song I sing
You more than my life
You are more than me having a wife

Oh Lord you are priceless
Your love is priceless
Your glory is priceless
Your faithfulness is priceless
I love You
I adore You

You are everything to me
Oh Lord You are priceless,
How can I put a price tag?
On You that I call DAD
Oh LORD You are priceless!
Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

My soul says
Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Priceless, priceless, priceless
Compared to You,
Everything is worthless
Forever LORD You are priceless!
PRICELE$$
by Deacon Telly Timpson
For where your treasure is,
there will your heart be also.
                              Matthew 6:21
A good man out of the good treasure of
his heart bringeth forth that which is good;
and an evil man out of the evil treasure of
his heart bringeth forth that which is evil:
for of the abundance of the heart his
mouth speaketh.
                                   Luke 6:45
It seems that almost everyone is writing. Whether you are writing a paper, article, newsletter, book, or multi-volume reference treatise, it is
very important that you: 1) Obtain permission to include copyright protected material belonging to another – B-E-F-O-R-E – it is printed as
part of your work, and/or 2) Properly document (footnote/endnote) materials that have come from other sources. This article provides
information on how you can do that.







SEEKING PERMISSION

“So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” (Luke 11:9 NKJV).

A. The Formal Request

A few years ago a teacher wanted to put together an information package for her class that contained copyright protected materials from
various sources. On her behalf, I contacted the Permissions Departments of both Oxford University Press and Harper Collins Publishing
companies regarding the use of copyrighted materials they had published. They instructed me that the minimum information to include in
our letter requesting permission to use copyrighted material was as follows:

1) Book Title [from which you will copy material; 2) Author’s Name; 3) Year of Copyright; 4) Page Number(s) material is found on [state
whether it is an excerpt of text material, chart, figure, graph, photo, etc.]; 5) How material will be used. a) If material will be used as part of a
book, state that in the letter. It will probably be helpful to include description of the book, b) If material will be used as part of a class, state
that in the letter. It will probably be helpful to include course title and/or subject of class; 6) Number of copies to be made – if distributing in
a classroom setting or description of how material will be used in text; and 7) Where it will be distributed [place of use].

If you are seeking permission to use copyright material, please contact the publishers or authors of the material to find out their specific
policies. You can use the above as a guideline, but it is not a substitute for specific requirements that various companies or individuals
may have. [NOTE: This is to be distinguished from having the students/dancers purchase the book and use it as a required text in the
class or study. You do not need permission from the copyright owners to make a text part of their required readings list.]

B. The Informal Request

Recently, a dance minister that I know contacted me with a request to use some information that I published a few years ago about
Copyright Law and Liturgical Dancers. She sent me an e-mail describing the book she was writing, why and how she wanted to use some
of the material that I had written and that her book would be sold for a fee. I thought her book idea sounded wonderful. We talked on the
phone; I gave her my verbal consent and followed that up with a written response confirming my consent and the proper way to cite to the
information.

If you make an informal request and receive a verbal consent to use copyright protected work, I suggest the following: 1) Ask the copyright
holder to send you a written verification of their consent [for their records and yours] and/or 2) If they are too busy, send them a letter that
summarizes your understanding of the content of your verbal communications, their consent, your appreciation and anything else you
deem necessary and appropriate.

Everyday Scenarios: Two everyday scenarios regarding the use of copyright protected works are listed below.

A. Writing A “How To" Dance Ministry Book

Minister Banner User/Author is writing a book about flags, banners, how to use them in dance ministry and what the colors mean. He
researched the Bible and found supporting scriptures on those topics. The book also contains personal insights that he has gleaned from
years of using banners in ministry. Recently read a book [by another author from another country] that has great diagrams with the scripture
locations, meaning of the colors and banner designs. They would be an excellent addition to his book.

Q1:
Can Minister Banner User/Author copy those pages and include them in his book?

A1: The general answer to this question is NO. If copyright laws protect the books and literary works, then you must request permission
from the copyright owner prior to including that material in your book or making exact copies of the book or the materials in the book.

Q2:
Can he retype the information from the other book, alter the font, change a few of the words, and rearrange the order – then
include them in his book?

A2: Again, the general answer to the question is NO. If you are seeking to use multiple pages from a book, then you must contact the
copyright owner and request permission prior to making copies and/or including that material in your book. If you are using certain
portions of the book to support research that you have already done, then there are acceptable ways of citing the work in another
person’s book by the use of footnotes and endnotes. (See MLA Handbook and other research/writing books for proper format to use
when citing to another’s work.) Additionally, just including a long list of references at the end of your book is not sufficient if you have
used their materials throughout your book without proper notations in the body of the text.

B. Scriptural References

Dancer Author is writing a book about the Scriptural Foundations of Dance. It contains Old and New Testament scriptures plus modern day
applications to liturgical dance movements.

Q:
Dance Author wants to know, “If I am quoting the Bible, can I just include the scripture locations and write out the verses?”

A: If you are using the King James Version of scriptures throughout your text, there is generally a statement in the beginning of all books
that reads: “Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture references are from the KING JAMES VERSION of the HOLY BIBLE.”

You are free to quote the King James Version of the Bible because it is part of the “public domain.” This means that it is old enough to fit
into a category of materials that belong to the public – free and clear. However, if the Scriptures are from other versions of the Bible, most
publishers have established policies for use of the Scriptures. To learn what their policies are, you can contact the publishers by going to
their websites, calling or writing a letter to their Permissions Department. Most publishers have standard language that appears on the
inside sheet of the book to indicate that you have used that version of the Bible.

TIPS FOR THE MONTH

Tip #1 – Properly citing sources helps others.

* When you properly reference, you empower other people to do additional research on the topics that you have written about. In Acts 17:11
we learn that,
“These [the people of Berea] were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all
readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”

* The Apostle Paul gave the people the word of God but they did their own research based on the information provided. Likewise, you want
to provide people with the tools they need to do their own research. This will enhance their personal growth and spiritual maturity.

Tip #2 – Seeking permission to use the work of others preserves integrity.

* We want to reflect the character of our Father God in all we do. He operates in truthfulness, honesty and integrity. When we ask for and
receive permission to include someone’s work in our work B-E-F-O-R-E including it, then we reflect the character of God.

* God specializes in originality of design and creation. The devil is a counterfeiter, thief, and father of lies. We as humble sacred artists
WILL NOT do anything that will in any way suggest we are operating in a manner reflective of anything or anyone other than God! When a
person is accused of plagiarism the unexpected result is a loss of integrity of not only the person but of the message you taught and
possibly of our God and King – who you sing, speak, teach, dance and write about.

As children of the Most High God, we must purpose in our hearts to have integrity in all we do. If you have not written the material or created
it, do not claim credit for it. If you know you are about to copy something from a book or article written by another person and add it to your
material(s) – without seeking proper authorization and failing to use established research citations which give the author credit for the
work, then you are not operating in integrity.

Closing Prayer:
The material contained in this article is for general information purposes;
it is not and should not be used as a substitute for legal counsel or legal advice.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Minister Cynthia Dempsey, graduate of Eagles International Training Institute, loves the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY with all her substance
and uses every gift and talent HE has given her to glorify and worship Him in spirit and in truth.  She is married to Horace Dempsey and they have three precious
daughters.  She serves as Christian Education Coordinator/Chapel Teacher at a private school; writes the yearly curriculum, teaches chapel weekly and in 2006
created an original Vacation Bible School Curriculum.  She has been saved since she was a young girl and dancing since age four.  She is an attorney and as
part of her practice, provides legal counsel and Godly wisdom to dance schools and companies, liturgical dance ministries, performing arts corporations and
other arts related individuals and organizations.  She has more than 15 years liturgical dance experience as a minister of dance, choreographer, instructor of
youth, teens, and adults, and a workshop and seminar speaker.  She is a member of the Jericho City of Praise (JCOP) under the anointed and prophetic
leadership of Apostle Betty P. Peebles, D.D., Senior Pastor. Cynthia serves as the JCOP Dance Ministry Administrator.  She also serves on the Board of Directors
of two non-profit arts organizations.
Dance Ministry Events
* These listings are submitted by various community sources. Company Keepers Staff does not necessarily endorse
events listed below. Please be prayerful and led of the Lord when selecting and attending ministry gatherings.
Please contact event organizer with any questions or for more information regarding these events.
March 17th @ 5:00pm
A Generation of Praise...
Benefit Dance Concert
Location: Judson Baptist Church
451 East 223rd Street - Carson, CA

Host: Vessels of Praise Liturgical Dance Ministry

Proceeds will go toward a mission trip to Ghana West Africa!
March 24th- 25th
"Weapons of War"
A Theatrical Worship Experience

Written, Produced and Directed by Minister Danese Turner
Location: Southern Polytechnic State University
Student Center Theater

*Awesome presentation with anointed dancers, steppers and mime
An experience you don't want to miss!
Featuring: Lion of Judah Praise Dancers
(Artesian Well Faith Center- Long Beach, CA)
Conferences & Workshops
March 15th - 17th
Breaking Free Forever Men’s Dance Conference MEN ONLY!
Columbus, OH   
Host: Bishop Christopher Hardy
Website:
www.internationalcovenantministries.org
Email: cjhardy2@msn.com
Phone: (614) 519-0375.

March 15th - 17th
EXpress Your Worship International
Toronto, Canada
Host: Dare to Dance, Inc.
Website:
www.daretodance.org
Email: bahamas3@juno.com
Phone: (813) 377-4177

March 28th - April 1st
"ONE INTIMATE WORSHIP EXPERIENCE"
Restoring The Glory
Nassau, Bahamas
Host: Pastor Agnes Glinton, Greater Love Ministries
Website:
www.greaterloveministries.com
Email: greaterlovemin@yahoo.com

March 31st
"Dancer's Boot Camp"
Atlanta, GA
Host: Passion For Worship Dance Ministries, Inc.
Website:
www.passionforworshipdance.com

April 12th - 14th
"The Power and Beauty of His Dance"
St. Maarten
Host: Minister Miranda Patterson
Email: mirandapatterson_332@hotmail.com

April 13th - 14th
"An Apostolic Prophetic Weekend Encounter"
Master Dance Class with Rev. Eyesha Marable!
Dunwoody, GA (Near Atlanta)
Host: Apostle Elizabeth Hairston
Email: aposprop@bellsouth.net
Phone: (770) 819-8120

June 1st & 2nd
"Come Away My Beloved" Into His Presence...
Worship / Liturgical Dance Retreat & Conference
Reisterstown, Maryland
Host: International Liturgical Dance Fellowship
website:
www.ildf.org

July 2nd - 8th
International Youth & Cultural Festival 2007
Nassau, Bahamas
Host: Creative Cultural Arts Agency
Email: ccdn@reborn.com
Phone (242) 394-4776 or (251) 243-4380
website:
www.cc-dn.org
July 13th - 15th
On One A-Chord
3rd Annual Bay Area
Liturgical Worship Arts Conference
Host: Passion For Worship Dance Company
& Ministries, Inc.
Website:
www.passionforworshipdance.com

July 20th - 21st
One Body, One Spirit Dance Conference
Columbia, SC
Hosts: GA, SC and NC Chapters of the
National Liturgical Dance Network
Website:
www.natldancenetga.org
Phone: (803) 772-1462

July 26th - 29th
Word In Motion Urban Dance Festival
Los Angeles, CA
Hosts: Word in Motion
Website:
www.wordinmotion.com
Email: festival@wordinmotion.com

August 2nd - 7th
Kingdom Arts Conference 2007
An International Arts Symposium
Barbados  
Hosts: Kingdom Reach Barbados, Operation Save Jamaica and
other ministries in Trinidad & Tobago
Website:
www.praiseacademyofdance.org
Email: mbweekes@yahoo.com

August 8th - 12th
Dancing Preachers International 2007
Barbados  
Host: Sabrina McKenzie Ministries
Website:
www.sabrinamckenzie.org

September 7th - 8th
Equipping the Saints
Dance & Worship Arts Conference
Fairview Heights, IL
Host: Lakita Humber- Paneh Praise Dance & Mime Ministry
Website:
www.praisedanceministry.com/conference
Email: register@panehpraise.com
Phone: (618) 407-6145

September 13th - 15th
24-7 Three Six Five: Eternal Worship
National Dance Conference
Las Vegas, NV
Host: Rain Rein Reign
Website:
2007RRRDanceConference
Email: 247365@rainreinreign.com
Dance Ministry Resource
"CHURCH STREET WEAR"
Garments of Praise

Diane Grant - Ladie Di & Co
Due to an overwhelming response, Ladie Di is extending the Garment Special Sale just in time for the Resurrection Season!  This
sale NOW ends MARCH 15, 2007.  Many of you are familiar with her garments and the quality in the work she does. For those
that aren't, please support this Kingdom vision by purchasing these beautiful garments.  The garments are very comfortable,
versatile, can be mixed and matched, as well as worn with a variety of overlays, ephods, belts, scarves, etc.

This sale is primarily for group ministries, as that is the Ladie Di's specialty. Her vision is to see dance ministers the worldover
equipped in garments that fully cover our bodies, as well as represent the glory and beauty of God in glorious and wonderful colors.





























The sale continues with styles 431 (princess seam top) and 408 (palazzo pants, cut 40 inches in length), but added is a choice of
two other tops.  Those styles are 410 (dolman sleeve top) and 406 (straight empire top). Please visit
www.joyshoppe.com to see
selections of the tops and palazzo's as well as other items Ladie Di has available to meet your ministry needs.

NOTE:  Garments are also available in children's sizes.  Contact Ladie Di for pricing, order placement, or for more information:
Diane Grant - Ladie Di & Co

4949 Beeman Avenue #014   Dallas, Texas 75223

Phone: 214-821-9771 / Line #2:  214-821-9780

Email: ladiedicsw@yahoo.com    
  
REMEMBER: PRICES ARE GOOD ONLY UNTIL MARCH 15, 2007!!  
Garment fabric must be cut.  Please allow 3 weeks for delivery.
* Sherry Traylor (danceroneheaven@yahoo.com) attends Zoe Christian Fellowship of Whittier, CA where she serves as Dance Director over several ministries.
She is the Founder of Heavens Gates Dance Academy of the Arts in California. Sherry has served the Lord in dance for over 20 years. Sherry has been blessed to
facilitate dance conferences, and is in the process of writing a book on the ministry of dance. Sherry offers free dance technique classes at Zoe on Saturdays at
11:00am in Room 53.
On the Move: Dance Event Report
Is God trying to talk in your church but you have too much program to hear what He wants to say?

The remedy for this is pure unadulterated worship. Such may be found at the International Worship Symposium held
annually on the last weekend in January. All nationalities converged on the William Carey International University
January, 25th-27th in Pasadena, California for Praise 2007 presented by the Living Word Institute.

This event endeavors to bring all proponents of Jesus Christ into the presence of the One and True Living God by use
of all art forms, gifts and talents the Creator has established in us for His glory to praise and worship Him.

There are so many classes to choose from that a matrix has been designed to reduce the challenge of choosing which
workshops, clinics and lectures to attend. They are arranged in skill levels from the beginner to the veteran; for
children, teens and adults.

General sessions held in the morning are for all to attend to get a touch of the presence of God before being dismissed
to elective sessions in drama, dance, flags, hand signing, singing, worship leading, songwriting, mime, and more- much,
much more!

A worship celebration is held in the evening in which all classes put to use what was learned in class. This year’s theme
was “Let God Arise” and He did. There was a free flow of the Spirit of God as we played before Him- ourselves as the
instruments in His hands- whether dancing, singing, using banners, flags, streamers; violins, drums, keyboards; or
paintings.

We came before the throne in corporate humility to hear God talk to us about His three favorite subjects: Himself, us
and His kingdom. Though the focus is on the youth who are 1st invited down to the altar, as it were, in the humongous
Mott Auditorium, all others above the age of thirty-five are asked to join them and we all, as His children, are set in an
atmosphere of freedom to submit our gifts of worship to Him. One of the features and treats at the Symposium is the
MIMEistry International presentation under the direction of Rev. Todd Farley which offers 12-week intensives in Mime
and Dance.

If you feel yoked, tied, or bound and need to be set free in worship without inhibition, this is the place—an oasis of
teaching, learning, and application of worship in a nurturing environment without hindrance where you can experience
His presence.

Classes don’t stop here. If you would like to continue training, Living Waters Christian Fellowship under the direction of
Dr. David Fischer offers a Saturday Morning Worship Institute from March to April. They may be contacted at (626) 791-
7295 or rws4mail@aol.com.

Always praising Him!

Yvonne M. Owens
* Yvonne Owens has been dancing for the Lord for numerous years. Yvonne attends Bible Enrichment Fellowship International Church (Inglewood, CA). She
continues to be an avid dance ministry supporter and pioneer.
My sheep listen to My voice;  I know them, and they follow Me.
                                                           John 10:27 NIV
This is a perfect scripture for Inheritors of the Kingdom of God. God’s
children LISTEN! The scripture doesn’t say they speak first, they answer, or
they ask lots of questions. After careful study through at least 26 Bible
translations, none of those say it either, although other translations do say
we “hear” God’s voice. This is the main theme throughout this article and I’ll
say it in the beginning, simply LISTEN! We spend entirely too much time
debating, arguing, giving our own personal opinions and professional
judgments, etc. In this season of war, we MUST learn to listen to the voice
of God. Not the voice of your friends, your ministry leader, your pastor, your
spouse, your parents, your mentor, etc., Spend sincere quiet time and
LISTEN to the voice of our Father. Hear what God is saying to you!

Hear me clearly, I am not saying the above voices aren’t relevant to your
everyday life. They are important.  I want to emphasize what YHWH has to
say to you in this all important war season. His voice is the only voice that
you must LISTEN to in order to get clear, concise, correct instructions for
the perfect will for your life that God ordained. He knows your life, has seen
it - and any of the above voices or people you know have not, even your
parents.  It is the one true God, Ruler of Heaven and Earth that will declare
and decree exactly what He wants for you and to HEAR exactly where you
must stand now!

This all important 'now' time, Daddy is talking about standing in who you
are in Christ. Your character can make or break you. Don’t get me wrong,
you’ll get plenty of invitations to speak, minister, train, teach, etc., but if you
get there and your character has not been formed and tried and tested in
the fire of God,  you will lose that position so fast it will be as if you were
dreaming. Your gifts and calling might get you there. Your Christ-like
character will keep you there and promote you even further. Your 'self' (that
flesh of yours), will not be able to withstand what it is God has for you
unless you LISTEN to Him – the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.  All of
them had to LISTEN. We have 66 books showing us precisely what
happened to many who did not heed - let them be our examples.
Company Keepers Staff:
Rekesha Pittman - Editor-in-Chief (Founder- Rain Rein Reign, Inc.)
Sherry Traylor - Consulting Editor (Dance Director- Zoe Expressions  /  Founder- Heaven's Gates Dance Academy)
LaVetta C. Williams - Assistant Editor (Founder- Dancing Before the King Ministries)
Robin Deane - Staff Writer (Worship Arts Director- West Angeles / Founder- The Victory Praise Dancers)


Company Keepers
Dance Ministry Monthly
March 2007                            
                                                
                           
Vol. 3 No. 3
In This Issue
The Dancer's Prayer

Worship, Inc.

Poetry Pointe: Priceless

Integrity In All We Do- Part 2

Event Calendar & Resource

Network

On The Move: Dance Event Report

Character: The Father Reflected...
In This Issue
The Dancer's Prayer

Worship, Inc.

Poetry Pointe: Priceless

Integrity In All We Do- Part 2

Event Calendar & Resource

Network

On The Move: Dance Event Report

Character: The Father Reflected...
Worship, Inc.
by Rekesha Pittman
INTEGRITY IN ALL THAT WE DO:
GOD'S LAW, Copyright Law and The Liturgical Dancer
Part 2: Writing & Permission
by Minister Cynthia Dempsey, Esq.
"Let integrity and uprightness preserve me;
for I wait for You."
                                      (Psalm 25:21)
Father God, on behalf of every reader I pray that You:
“Deal bountifully with Your servant, that I [we] may live and keep Your word.
Open my
[our] eyes that I [we] may see Wondrous things from Your law”
                                                                                       (Psalm 119:17-18)
Teach me, O LORD, the way of Your statutes, and I shall keep it to the end. Give me
understanding, and I shall keep Your law; Indeed, I shall observe it with my whole
heart. Make me walk in the path of Your commandments, for I delight in it. Let my
heart be blameless regarding Your statutes, that I may not be ashamed.
                                                                                             
(Psalm 119:33-35, 80)
HURRY - Sale Ends March 15th!
SALE PRICES  (SOLD AS SETS):

GROUP PRICES: (Minimum group set of 2 or more):  $62.50 - $72.50 per set  [Regularly
$80-$95]

INDIVIDUAL PRICES:  $75 per set [Regularly $80]

WHITE and BLACK SETS: $62.50 for XS-Lrg and $67.50 for XLrg and up.

COLOR sets are $67.50 for XS-Lrg and $72.50 for XLrg and up.  

Available Colors:
* LIGHT CREAM
* DARK CREAM
* BRIGHT ORANGE
* BURNT ORANGE (almost an auburn color)
*
TEAL
* SAGE
* GOLD (Like a pumpkin spice, not quite old gold)
*
MEDIUM PURPLE
* CHOCOLATE - The new black   **limited selection**
*
CHARCOAL
* SKY BLUE
* PINK
* RED
NETWORK
by Sherry Traylor
When He had finished speaking, He said to Simon,
“Now go out where it is deeper,
and let down your nets to catch some fish.”
                                                   
(Luke 5:4)
Calling All Dancers:
DANCE DANCE DANCE!!!
CHARACTER:
The Father Reflected





in His Earthly Children
There is one God – none before Him and none after Him. He knows everything and sees everything, knowing the outcome. Frail humans,
created a little lower than the angels, don’t come close to having this capacity or knowledge, nor know His thoughts and ways.  We can’t
begin to fathom who He is. His otherness is beyond our comprehension. Let's do the simple thing in this war season, LISTEN!

Since the New Year began, (the Hebraic New Year, October), my self (flesh) has been tried and tested like never before. I’ve had to deal
with some major things these past few months and right when it seems like, ok, this battle is over, I’m barely setting down my battleaxe
and lo and behold, the trumpet sounds another war cry. I am honored and eternally grateful that I LISTEN to my Daddy as one of His sheep
and spend time in preparation, placing my cares, trust, burdens, and the weightier things upon Him so that He can direct my paths and
order my steps. This is purposeful – this way my Master makes sure I’m not fighting demons, battles, wars and rumours of wars that He
didn’t call me to be in or at or near.

I know that it was my character, and unfailing faith in the midst of chaos that has kept me. I forever remain in the army of Jehovah Tseboath.

Character comes up often, especially now-a-days when many Christians are under attack for unseemly behavior the world over and the
headlines scream out that the sons and daughters of God have abandoned their posts. Where are the watchmen? Can our Lord find
anyone who will stand in the gap for the nations, for Israel, praying for the peace of Jerusalem, for your family, your husband, children, the
saints, the saved and the unsaved? Many are not on post. Ezekiel 33 clearly outlines the duty of a watchman. Today I stand boldly, yet heavy-
hearted, to deliver a word to sacred artists the world over, obeying the voice of my Father: God's Message came to me:
"Son of man, speak
to your people. Tell them, 'If I bring war on this land and the people take one of their citizens and make him their watchman, and if the
watchman sees war coming and blows the trumpet, warning the people, then if anyone hears the sound of the trumpet and ignores it
and war comes and takes him off, it's his own fault. He heard the alarm, he ignored it—it's his own fault. If he had listened, he would
have saved his life."
(Eze. 33:1-5, The Message)

I declare unto the every reader of this article that I will not be silent when my King clearly instructs me to do something. I have failed my God
too many times in the past, having had Him chasten me to the point that I’ve grown and matured in the things of Christ. I do not fear man,
but God. I tremble at the thought of disobeying the One who has given me eternal life!

Today, I take full responsibility as I always have for every article I’ve written, but most importantly today because this fire in my belly will not
overtake me. For lack of a better word, because what I’m feeling in my spirit there are no words to explain, but this angst, has caused me to
not just examine my own character, but to write what Jehovah has laid on my heart as His anointed scribe.

Character causes one to ask questions. What do our actions say about our character, our integrity, our morality? Webster’s dictionary
defines character as the combination of emotional, intellectual and moral qualities distinguishing one person or group from another.  
Those of us who are not of this world, who look like and should emulate our Daddy should distinguish us from those who are not
LISTENING to Him, who don’t know His voice and obey. The lines are becoming very blurred.

I can hear the intellectuals who regularly study the word of our God and it’s bound upon their hearts where they meditate therein day and
night (Psalm 1:2) asking, what in the world is LaVetta talking about? The word "character" is not in the Bible (although it is a Greek word).

Let’s move forward, closer to the front lines of the war. How do we find these distinguishing qualities for one who calls himself/herself a
son or daughter of God? We would look exactly in the place where we find many examples of character, or lack thereof- God’s Holy Word.
We know that
EVERY Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of
sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God's will in
thought, purpose, and action)
(2 Timothy 3:16 AMP).

Let’s break this down into something a little more understandable:

* EVERY Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) – God said it so that’s good enough for me.

*
Profitable for instruction – Education or training – How I do what God says.

*
For reproof - Criticism for a fault {from God, not man}

*
Conviction of sin – My heart is pliable so that when God convicts me, I immediately repent because I have sinned against God and
His ways

*
For correction of error – Ok, I did wrong. I won’t dwell on it, won’t let it overtake me, won’t let people (folk) throw it in my face to use in a
negative manner against me – I am an overcomer!!! I correct my mistakes because I am to
"Be ye therefore perfect, even as your
Father which is in heaven is perfect."
(Matthew 5:48 KJV). Not perfect as our human-ness suggests, but doing my absolute best to be
an imitator of Christ in His determination of what is perfect for my life

*
Discipline in obedience – I didn’t get this way overnight and therefore, it’s going to take more than just one day, one hour, one minute
to correct my faults. It’s going to take some time, but I am committed to the process. I stay on the path and fight the good fight of faith,
not getting weary in well doing

*
For training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God's will in thought, purpose, and action).

WHY? Verse 17 of the above scripture answers that. So that the man of God (YOU) may be complete and proficient (have expertise), well
fitted and thoroughly equipped (no lack) for every good work. Also reference (read, study and meditate) Psalm 68:18 and Ephesians 4:8-16.
In other words, you‘ll know and learn everything God determines you’ll need to know and learn, this will be developed over time through
your character and the tests and trials that come your way – your commitment and devotion to LISTENING to God.

Let’s look at a few examples Adonai has given us of people who through their emotions and moral qualities most definitely distinguished
themselves from others (seemingly like them, serving the same God, called to do His will and walking in obedience [even after they
sinned]) and were rewarded by Jehovah Rohi. Bear with me as I’ve paraphrased according to LaVetta:

We’ll start out with one of the sacred artists’ best references, the Levites. Read and thoroughly study Exodus 24-32 which begins with the
children of Israel confirming their covenant with God, the offerings, furniture of the Tabernacle/Sanctuary, the priestly garments and the
consecration of the priests and anointing oil, the food of the priests, the skilled craftsmen and the Sabbath.

Picture in your mind YHWH giving dynamic instruction and because a few folk felt (or allegedly believed) Moses was taking a tad too long
on the mountain hearing from God. They decided to make their own rules & regulations. The unmitigated gall! They discounted everything
God had just told them. They claimed they didn’t know what happened to Moses. Come now. It would stand to reason that IF God was
going to remove Moses or make him disappear in the mountain; surely He would’ve had Moses’ replacement. He would not have left the
people to fend for themselves after just delivering them. (SIDE NOTE: Leaders, I know you can relate. You’re trying to hear from God &
those placed under your charge are constantly murmuring, causing a disturbance amongst the brethren.)

Character developed – real faith and trust just because God said so and an unprecedented zeal for God. In the midst of the madness,
Moses asked a vital and pertinent question. The only people who responded, either from their memory bank or because they had
experienced this unmovable-unshakeable God, were the Levites. Not only that, but their character was immediately tested again after they
said "Yes, Lord" – killing 3,000. (SIDE NOTE: In the midst of disobedience, chaos, confusion, and mess, 3,000 died. However, on the day
of Pentecost, in the midst of the greatest love of all, 3,000 were saved. For the mature saints who want a deeper revelatory knowledge of
the importance of numbers & the Levites, compare and contrast these two historical events – the numerical significance and the Levites
taking place of the first-born / these that were first born {born again}). The Levites were the only group (Tribe) that responded.  A definite
distinction between them and the rest of the group.

Secondly, Hannah and Elkanah. Read and thoroughly study 1 Samuel 1. Here you have a woman broken in spirit, to the point where her
enemy is in her face always, her enemy could even be called family. Not only that, but the enemy taunts her day and night. She has little or
no strength or will to battle this war. Oh, but that reminder of our great God – that one inkling of a reminder of all that He was capable of
doing. After all, didn’t she and Elkanah always worship God?

Character developed – prayer and belief and worshipping God no matter what -- just because God said so and remembers His own.
Doesn’t the opening scripture say God knows us? In the midst of the madness, Hannah though downtrodden, never forgot to pray to the
only One who could answer her prayers. Read and study the word of God. Beloved, no angel was ever invited to participate in prayer. Five
times throughout scripture God looked for man. How important do you honestly believe prayer is in the life of a Christian? This fact should
just propel you to pray like never before. (And no, I’m not talking about prayer for self and stuff you want; I’m talking about the intercession,
interceding on behalf of someone besides you). Hannah was the wife who responded, not to the enemy, but to God. She followed the way
of the Lord; a definite distinction of an individual.

Finally, the best proof ever of a development in character: Jesus Christ. Read and thoroughly study the entire Bible, but especially the New
Testament. Here we have the life of the Savior of the world. He went through all and more of what Moses and Hannah went through, even to
the point of dying for people who tried to kill Him, who didn’t like Him, let alone love Him. People hated Him, were mean-spirited,
disobedient, wayward, evil and wicked, faithless, just downright "ugly," as my mama would say.

Character developed – faith, prayer, belief, love, hope, righteousness, power, joy, overcomer, kindness, longsuffering, peace, victorious,
perseverance, etc. -- just because God said so and ordained it from the beginning of time. Christ is our best example of one Who
LISTENED and followed through with the steps ordered and ordained for His life. He knew what the end result was going to be,
nevertheless, He persevered. Did He become disheartened? I absolutely believe He did when He said,
“Abba, Father, all things are
possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.”
Not what I want when I want it, but whatever
YOU will God. Hallelujah! The entire Bible confirms Christ’s character, foretold in the Old Testament and confirmed in the New Testament;
the ultimate distinction.

Here’s the best part, co-laborers, it’s possible! (I’m now shouting and running around like I just got saved all over again after 33 years!!!)
If Jesus knows and can state emphatically that all, not some, but ALL things are possible for God, then why should we not have the same
faith and belief? Not for us, - our humanness stops us from believing that absolutely everything is possible for us ~ that’s why I’m so
appreciative it’s not about me, but about God!

I am not making light of Christ and all of the character traits He displayed for us as an example. Not even the few examples I gave convey
what God wants each of us to look like here on earth. There are so many more character traits than can be written about in a few pages of
an article. But daily let us look at self and remind self that my character is being developed, not for me, but for God so that I may be a living,
breathing example of what He looks like in the earth realm.

I cannot plead to you enough my brothers and sisters that you must begin to develop Godly character, starting now if you haven’t already
begun the process. If you have started the process, stay the course. Stay in a position of face down so that you can LISTEN to what God is
saying to YOU and only YOU about what traits He wants to develop in your life. The fire is hot but well worth it. Ask the three Hebrew boys!
This isn’t about YOU – it’s about the Kingdom. It is about your traits and developing Godly character in you for the advancement of the
Kingdom; you will be used! God needs everyone. God will not allow you or me or anyone to sit idle. We must reach the lost at any cost. We
are vessels being used to assist in raising up a nation of people God created in His image and likeness.

WHOSE IMAGE ARE YOU REFLECTING?

As I Remain a Bride in Preparation,

LaVetta
LaVetta Celise Williams gave her life to Jesus Christ at age 12 & has been saved 32 years.
She is the founder of Dancing Before the King Ministries, traveling nationally &
internationally teaching & ministering at conferences, workshops, Bible Studies, etc., on the
Biblical aspect of praise & worship, liturgical dance, pageantry (flags, banners, streamers)
and all that it entails to be a sacred arts minister. She is a member of Destiny World Church
& the former Dance Director; current staff writer and Assistant Editor of Company Keepers,
National Liturgical Dance Network (NLDN) administrative assistant and member of the
International Dance Commission & Sacred Dance Guild. She is one of the founders of the
NLDN-GA Chapter and former Administrative Assistant. She's currently enrolled in the
Eagles International Training Institute pursuing licensing as a minister of dance. She
mentors 10 ministries in California, Connecticut, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina,
Georgia & Texas. Contact her at destinedtodance@hotmail.com.
February 2007

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"Keep Company With Us!"
To Post Conferences, Workshops,
or Announcements:

E-mail:
companykeepers@rainreinreign.com

Dance Concerts & Events:
Please submit dates for April & May 2007 only.

All submissions must be received by:

March 25th
for inclusion in the April 2007 Edition.
by LaVetta Celise Williams
It’s time for us to rise up like never before. It is our time to dance (Ecc.3:4). We are being called upon, in the church, at
banquets, parties, and for this and that event. You may be dancing in China, Africa, Compton, Atlanta, Costa Rica, or
the uttermost parts of the earth, but we are all NETWORKING together for God’s kingdom- to win the lost through the
arts! He speaks through our movement…

Net-work: ("Net," the Tool - "Work," the Harvest.)

We are a group of transmitting dance stations linked by wire or movement relay so that the same program can be
visualized by all.

Jesus told Simon to cast out his net. Jesus was showing him how to fish. He told Simon,
“Go out where the water is
deep...”
Now this is the trust point, and the point of the miracle. As they pulled their overflowing nets into the boat, and
the fish began to spill out all over the deck, more boats were called in to help out.

As we continue to be about God’s business, we are going past the four walls into our communities. Cast out your nets!
When you are obedient to His Word, miracles, sign and wonders will happen.  We will have to pull together (network),
because the "great catch" of souls will start bursting our nets at the seams. We will need to teach, train and get others
ready to help catch even more fish (mankind). It’s about all of us working together now... I need
you to survive!