Each morning at Opal House, nearly 100 students and leaders gathered in a vibrant outdoor space overlooking the hills of Guatemala. This daily large group time wasn’t just a moment in the schedule—it became the heartbeat of the I AM ART Camp experience.
Through music, movement, storytelling, and Scripture, the entire camp stepped into a sacred rhythm that shaped the emotional and spiritual flow of the week.
Anchored in the Story of Joseph
At the center of our large group gatherings was the story of Joseph from the Bible—his journey from betrayal to restoration, and how it mirrors our path of brokenness and purpose.
Kevin España brought Joseph’s story to life in a powerful way. Speaking in the first person, he immersed the students in Joseph’s experience, helping them feel the pain of rejection, the waiting in uncertainty, and the ultimate joy of reconciliation and purpose.
Each session tied directly into that day’s I AM ART theme:
- I Am Art
- I Am Loved
- I Am Broken
- I Am Restored
- I Am Connected
These truths didn’t just frame the art—they framed the students’ identities in Christ.
Creative Worship and Camp Unity
Large group time was more than teaching. It was a celebration of community, culture, and connection.
- We sang worship songs in Spanish and English—simple choruses that became anthems of hope and belonging.
- We played high-energy games that broke the ice and got everyone laughing across teams and ages.
- We learned a group dance that united the entire camp—kids and adults moving in joyful rhythm, celebrating freedom and fun.
These shared moments became a physical expression of what we were learning spiritually:
We were made for connection—with God and with one another.
When the Gospel Gets Personal
In this space, the Gospel wasn’t abstract—it was embodied.
It echoed in the songs.
It moved through the dance.
It spoke in the voice of Joseph.
It sank deep into the hearts of children.
Students were reminded:
You are not forgotten.
Even when life feels confusing or painful, God sees you.
You are chosen, loved, and never alone.
Transformation You Could See
As the week unfolded, we witnessed a real transformation:
- Eyes that had been cautious began to shine.
- Arms that were crossed began to open.
- Hearts that arrived guarded began to receive truth.
You could feel it—God was at work in the lives of these young artists.
The Ripple Effect of Truth
The impact of large group time won’t end with camp.
Seeds of truth were planted.
Identity was spoken.
Stories were reclaimed.
And a generation of young artists left believing something they may have never heard before:
I am art—because THE Artist made me.
