Where the Story Begins

How Daily Gatherings at CEIVA Connected Faith, Creativity, and Community

Before the paint, the props, the printing, and the projects, each day at I AM ART Camp began the same way: together.

Those daily large-group gatherings helped set the spiritual and relational tone for everything that followed.

At the center of that time was the story of Joseph, shared by missionary Noe Chan through powerful first-person storytelling. Rather than simply hearing a Bible lesson, students were invited into the emotional arc of Joseph’s life—his betrayal, waiting, perseverance, and trust in God.

A Story Students Could Step Into

The story of Joseph closely echoed the camp’s daily themes: I Am Art, I Am Broken, I Am Restored, and I Am Connected.

Through storytelling, students were invited to see that they, too, have a story—and that their story is not separate from God’s bigger story.

Creativity in Worship and Play

Worship, led by missionary Chris Campbell, extended that invitation in another form. Through music and movement, students were given space to express joy, gratitude, and trust. Worship became another creative outlet, reinforcing a core I AM ART belief: creativity is one of the ways we respond to God and reflect His image.

And then there were the games. Led by Guatemalan volunteer Pablo Hernandez, games became more than a fun transition. They helped build trust, energy, teamwork, and laughter across cultures and personalities.

Transformation rarely happens through information alone. It happens in spaces where truth is shared, joy is practiced, and people feel safe enough to participate.

Together, these daily rhythms formed the relational foundation of the week. Students were not just attending workshops. They were entering a community.