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Holy Family Institute is constantly seeking to address the needs of our community in new and innovative ways. This year, we are excited to launch a new initiative to meet this goal: Artful Spirits. Using arts-based worship practices, Artful Spirits seeks to revitalize engagement of children ages 7-12 in worship and build intergenerational relationships, primarily in Pittsburgh’s Black church communities.

“I’m so excited for children to be re-engaged with worship and grow closer to God through the arts,” says Project Director Nikki Thorpe. “They’re not only going to learn about the arts, they’ll actually do hands-on artistic activities, led by talented professionals, and regularly collaborate with adults at their churches to share their creativity during worship services!”

Collaboration is at the heart of Artful Spirits, which will launch with an interdenominational cohort of churches in Pittsburgh’s Hill District including Bethel AME Church, Ebenezer Baptist Church, Grace Memorial Presbyterian Church, St. Benedict the Moor Parish, and Wesley Center AME Zion Church.

Hill Dance Academy Theatre (HDAT) and Point Park University lend their expertise to offer culturally rich and technically skilled programming that ensures the arts are a central, transformative element for all participants.

According to Thorpe, “The children will also learn about the Fruit of the Spirit to build character and faith, as well as delve into the amazing history of Black American music—from spirituals and gospel to hip hop. Although we’re just at the beginning stages of this program, there is already great momentum with our partnering organizations. I’m so grateful to be part of this new initiative!”

Artful Spirits will kick off with an event for the partner congregations on December 4th and begin regular programming shortly thereafter! To learn more about Artful Spirits, visit hfi-pgh.org/artful-spirits.