Playing The Star at Proctors
Sharing our faith in the public arena can be challenging. If bathed in prayer and done properly it can be an effective means of presenting Jesus Christ. Debbie and I recently had the opportunity to do just that in Schenectady. The Star is an open mic setting located in Proctor’s Theater, hosted by The Worship Guide-where jazz, soul & rock collide. This new weekly event is located in a large open space directly across from Apostrophe Cafe. It’s a perfect venue for getting plugged in to the downtown community.
Howie Campbell
THE STAR is a weekly concert series followed by an open mic night that they eventually want to broadcast on television and radio. The goal is to encourage the music community as well as business startups in a partnership that provides space, audience and activity seekers for the mutual benefit of all concerned. They encourage networking and even offer space available for vendors to bring their wares. Stay current with their events with The Worship Guide’s Facebook page.
Johnathan Metcalf directing, Howie Campbell running sound and Donna Munafo of “4ever1”
The Star runs every Monday night beginning at 7PM with a featured artist. This is followed by an open mic until closing. Proctors, located in downtown Schenectady, NY has been beautifully remodeled and there is ample space for a crowd.
The Star concept is exactly what Debbie and I love to get involved with. 2nd Street Market in Tillamook, Oregon was very similar. There was a fine stage in the food court and the large, open building was filled with small shops looking to ply their trade in a cost effective venture. The business incubator is a great way for developing entrepreneurs, musicians, artists and others to interface. This is also a fantastic means to share the Good News of Jesus Christ in a non-churchy atmosphere.
Debbie and Howie
We were the featured act that night, doing an hour show. After that, a band played about three songs, followed acoustic musicians who signed up for the open mic. While not everyone sang about Jesus, some did and the mix was a delightful blend of local talent. Of course, Debbie and I were able to sing about our Lord, and I shared a “witness bracelet” with someone, had some good discussions about the faith and also encouraged others.
Native American flute on “Wayfarin’ Strangers”
I love this type of ministry and look for these kinds of connections wherever we go around America. Ultimately everyone needs Jesus and this is a great platform for introducing folks to Him in a non-threatening environment. May God prosper and grow The Star ministry in Schenectady, New York and others like it all over America.