Behind the Scenes

Some of us just aren't into being front and center on a stage and that's fine. We know that the backstage teams are what allow performances, plays, and events to function smoothly. Below is a list of teams we have that do just that. Some require specific skills, technological know-how, construction experience, and hands good with a needle and thread; whiles other teams may need a strong back, an artists eye, or an ear for music. No matter what your experience level or previous training (or lack of), if you are willing to learn any of these trades/skills, you're needed! Creative worship involves a lot of people and there is nothing that should hold you back from participating. Remember, this is all to glorify God and you will be using gifts He has given you - you're returning it with thanks to Him!

There are three ways to participate in any of the following groups.

1. Be involved with the planning stages - a "team leader". The Creative Worship Team is a conglomerate of representatives from each team (often more than one person representing a team). The Creative Worship Team meets once monthly, and is mainly responsible for coordinating worship, whether it be a special Sunday morning service, upcoming Holiday, or a special event. These "team leaders" then communicate with their respective team members and work begins!

2. Be a team member. They aren't required to attend the Creative Worship meetings, but often meet with other member of their team when projects start rolling in. The team members are the backbone of each team. Without them, no work would be done!

3. Volunteering your time, services, ideas, or materials on a project-by-project basis. We realize that not everyone can commit themselves to hours upon hours of work. However, these folks often want to help and are a crucial part of the worship experience. If you ever see an area where you can assist - even if it's a one-time-thing - please let us know!

Building Team
This team is usually called upon for special events, plays, or enhanced worship services. They are the 'construction' crew that builds stage sets, backdrops, large props, or support structures. Being handy with a hammer, drill, and other tools are helpful, but there's a spot for anyone interested in learning and helping with these projects. Some past projects include building a stage add-on in the sanctuary, a 30ft long backdrop for a Christmas musical, and 'mini' manger for actors to use. Hours are often flexible and are determined by the size of the project and time until the event. Anyone that's ever enjoyed wood-working or the like should really enjoy this team!

Sewing Team
Almost our entire wardrobe for plays, concerts, and events are created by hand. This team consists of some steady-hand, talented people who are able to create costumes for adults and children. They are also utilized to create sets, props, and decor that use fabric. Some skill is required, but, again, if you are willing to learn, please try it out. The group will often meet together when working on projects, but also has the flexibility to sew at home. Again, the amount of work and time put in depends on the current project and date of event.

Sound, Video, and Lighting Team
There are a lot of things the congregation does not see during worship, but make a world of difference for the experience. Some of those very important things, are sound, video, and lighting. There are several microphones and instruments that need constant attention along with many stage lights. If you've got an ear for music, an eye for lighting or video, this team is for you. Responsibilities vary and training is available for those who want to dedicate their time to this group. This team handles microphones, sound checks, instruments, proper lighting, video recordings, CD recordings, and equipment adjustments. They make sure the singers and band sound as a whole and look good doing it!. In addition to Sunday morning worship, this team gets called into service for any special events throughout the year, including indoor and outdoor events that utilize sound, lighting, and video. This is a fun group that is an integral part of the worship experience!

Art Team
Praising God through art is another unique and fun part of worship at FUMC Plant City. This group is for all those who love to be creative through painting, designing, drawing, and using whatever medium to, well, create! The Art Team is used for several different aspects of worship. Projects include (but are not limited to) painting scenery for plays and skits, creating unique/creative artwork to enhance worship in a visually stimulating way, and/or making specific pieces for sermons, events, or Holiday - small props, paintings, etc. While 'artists' may thrive on this team, we are reaching out to anyone with the slightest inkling of being creative! Remember, we create for God! The Art Team's schedule is determined by the projected needed and deadline. They can often meet together to work on projects, but this team encourages anyone to create on their own as well. If you've got a special artistic talent or piece of work you'd like to create/donate/pitch and idea for/to the church, please let us know!

Decorating Team
This team is responsible for getting all of our decor up, around the church campus, and lookin' good. The Decorating Team spends hours at a time hanging the greens at Christmas, setting up themed decor for events, and organizing the decor, making sure it's handled properly and stored securely. Scheduling is determined by event, but usually happens over a few hours or possibly couple of days. Decorating often needs to be done at one time (so as not to have the church half decorated when guests and members arrive or other events). This team decorates both indoors and outside, may need heavy items lifted, spends time atop tall ladders, travels the church grounds. They are the ones that may our church look great!

Interested or Have Any Questions About the Teams Above?
Contact our Music Director Debbie Hayes.