The Teaching Philosophy of Barbara L Armijo:
God is With Us – So, Search for Him
Greetings! We have the happy task of bringing art to those who may not yet know that they want it! Lol. We need art – desperately – for without a vision the people perish. Art saves lives! The spark of the creative impulse connects self expression with the godly pleasure of giving our hearts to His praise, to His glory and to His honor. Psalm 66 and Nehemiah 8 reveal that this is the joy of His heart and *is a wonderful, powerful and mysterious discovery*!
Welcome aboard all church family members who are earnestly seeking His face and want to share His amazing goodness with the world. You are much appreciated! In a snapshot, we are building momentum towards the long time shared vision of an Art Fair Ministry: We are doing it! It is happening!
As you develop your own ministry style of celebrating His Presence and our Keys to the Kingdom restored at the CROSS, please permit me to share mine. Based on the Montessori style of presumed mutual respect, I try to impart only the essentials of the project or workshop with the skill of a well rehearsed, refined presentation. First, what I am respecting is the surety that making sacramental art adds the very necessary element of action to the contemplative. Art is a means to own the treasure of basking in the presence of our Father.
Excellent teachings, whether in poetry, music, pot-making, or Ukrainian Egg decorating (suitable for any day of the year except Passover – I am not a fan of Astaroth), -- or any liberating artistic skill, when presented in this style, permits an instant quieting of the self. On first glance, this approach is often confused with lack of leadership by more competitive mores! But, it is Pauline in nature, to count others more worthy.
For age four through college level, it is an amazing way to awaken that inner place, so much like the prayer closet of the heart, where we are free to soar like eagles with the Holy Spirit. Respect and all other positive keys, bloom the necessary attitude for a fruitful atmosphere. Basically: the teacher presents and then steps aside. One continues to listen for needs one could help with, including prayer. But, the overarching goal is to impart self-motivation *where God-given creativity happily resides*.
Your personal outreach-mission rooted in His Word, is welcomed, of course and is imperative as we prepare to invite other churches to the challenge before we invite the greater metropolis with booths and music. He is worthy for us to take deep deep joy in the Presence of the Holy Spirit. Nothing is more healing for the nations than to search for Him in each other. As we do so, in this ministry, we are seeking to restore the skill of creativity where it has been lost and to renew the joy and fun of the arts where they already flourish. Amen?