Angels in Motion, an octet of youthful praise dancers from Greater Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, is re-introducing the art form to worship, programs and events through expressive interpretations of gospel music.

Angels in Motion.

Interpretive dance in religious settings is nothing new, of course. In fact, it is referred to frequently in Scripture. The Israelites, led by Miriam, danced joyously with tambourines following the crossing of the Red Sea (Exodus 15:20). David's military triumph over Goliath and the Philistines was observed with celebrative "singing and dancing" afterward (I Samuel 18:6). Even King "David danced before the Lord with all his might" as the ark was brought to Jerusalem. (II Samuel 6:14).

In addition, Jesus told the parable of the Prodigal Son, whose return caused the older brother to resent the "music and dancing" he heard feting the younger one's homecoming. (Luke 15:25). Dancing among the Jewish people was a normal way to celebrate significant events.

In more recent times, interpretive dance has been included as an expression of worship in many Christian denominations. In 2005, the Greater Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, 147 S. Huachuca Blvd., in Huachuca City inaugurated its own praise dance group.

Guided by Youth Director Ruby Moody, and assistant Veria Green, the program had four performers initially, which doubled in size to include girls ages 13-16.

"They're a well disciplined group," says Moody, a retired pediatrics nurse. "They're good kids, but they are kids," she said with a generous smile.

The participants in Angels in Motion are Andrea Womack, Alexa Womack, Elizabeth Anderson, Jackie Brown, Kimberly Anderson, DaVena Brown, Janel Johnson and Nicole Holmes.

The idea for a local praise dance team was ignited when the congregation witnessed a similar group performing for their Southern District Association meeting. Several girls from Greater Antioch Church were part of that dance team. Since then, Angels in Motion has evolved so that it is invited to participate in programs in other churches and community events. Recently they were seen at One-in-the-Park's Sunday and Wednesday events, when more than 500 Christian youth gathered. Sierra Evangelical Lutheran Youth Director Korra Looschen said, "They were amazing."

Group member Andrea Womack said, "The purpose is to celebrate Jesus." In addition, she enjoys doing so with praise dancing, "because it is my favorite way of dancing." While the youth work out their own routines, Moody and Green stand by to provide guidance.

On Oct. 19 at 7 p.m. and Oct. 20 at 2 p.m., the Angels in Motion are to appear at the fourth annual gospel program of the Sierra Vista Community Chorus, directed by Sharon Keene. They will be featured in two praise dances of their own, as well as one with the chorus. It is Hank William's "House of Gold." The free concerts take place at Faith Presbyterian Church, 2053 E. Choctaw Drive.

Keene extols the group by labeling their movements as "charming" and "just wonderful." Another SVCC leader, Linda Gilbert, lavishes praise on them for being "graceful." When Keene and Gilbert saw the girls perform at a Christmas tea a year ago, they were impressed. On the spot, Keene invited them to be part of their opening gospel concert this fall.

"Angels in Motion" was the name chosen for the group following a congregation-wide contest to find the right appellation. Member Trent Fields suggested the winning name and received a gift card from the group. "They are God's ambassadors for our church," said Moody.

Group member Kimberly Anderson said she participates in praise dancing, "because it keeps me centered on Christ."

"Showing praise to God," said DaVena Brown, is "the purpose."

Other area churches have similar praise dance teams. "Daughters of Judah" perform for Calvary's Rock Church of God in Christ at 231 N. Canyon Drive. Another group participates at Sierra Vista First Church of God in Christ at 100 Nelson Drive.