Registration
Animate tuition is all-inclusive, covering housing, meals, snacks, dynamic programming, toolbox classes, concerts, special events, and exclusive camp swag. Register early to secure your spot and lock in the best price! Registration remains open until May 15 or until the camp reaches full capacity. Don’t miss out—register today to save your place!
- Animate Actual Cost Per Person: $1,435
- Samford CWA Built-in Scholarship for All Participants: $885 - $1,036 (based on registration date)
- Total Cost Per Participant: $399 - $550 (based on registration date)
| Registration Type | Begins | Ends | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Bird | February 3 | March 3 | $399 |
| Discounted | March 4 | April 14 | $475 |
| Full Price | April 15 | May 15 | $550 |
Groups of 4 or more students get $25 off per registration; groups of 10 or more students get $50 off per registration; adult group leaders come for FREE!
Scholarships and Discounts
Scholarships and Discounts
A limited number of Animate scholarships and discounts are available based on financial need. To be considered:
- Email a copy of your free/reduced lunch letter to: dlee11@samford.edu.
- Email a letter explaining your financial need to: dlee11@samford.edu.
- If you cannot provide this information, please contact the camp office at dlee11@samford.edu for alternative options.
- Many students ask their church youth or worship leaders about using church summer camp funds for Animate scholarships. Your experience at Animate will help develop you as a leader, musician, artist, and worshiper in your church or school!
Theme
Guest Artists
Every year at Animate, we welcome a diverse group of guest preachers, worship leaders, spoken word artists, visual artists, and others to accompany us on our Animate journey.
- Amy Howard
- Cameron Thomas
- Nate Glasper
- Maria Fee
- Jonathan Skaggs
- Sarah Smoot
- Jonathan Rodgers
- Andrew Henderson
- Cedar Creative
Preacher: Amy Howard
Rev. Amy Howard is an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church, currently serving at First United Methodist Church, Tuscaloosa. She is passionate about helping people experience the transformational love of Jesus through communities of belonging. With a background in Christian Education and campus ministry before her last thirteen years in a pastoral role, she especially loves to help young people discover the ways they can use their enthusiastic faith to make a difference in the Church now. Above all though, she loves being "momma" to Cora and Bryson.
Preacher: Cameron Thomas
Cameron Thomas serves as pastor of the Hutchinson Missionary Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. Cameron received his Bachelor of Arts degree at Samford University and his Master of Divinity at Beeson Divinity School. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. in preaching at Baylor University. His research interests include pastoral ministry, Black preaching tradition, and the formation of preachers. In 2020, he launched Cameron R. Thomas Ministries to support preachers in the Black church and community. Cameron is married to Terah Stockdale Thomas.
Worship Leader: Nate Glasper
Nate Glasper, Jr. is a Resource Development Specialist and Campus Worship Associate at the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship. He serves as Adjunct Professor in the Department of Visual & Performing Arts at Calvin University and is currently the director of the Calvin University Gospel Choir. For the past 18 years he has been the Worship Pastor for Grace for the Nations Church in Grand Rapids, MI. Nate is a sought-after worship leader and teacher for ministry events in the USA and abroad, focusing on topics such as, Worship as a Lifestyle, Intercultural Worship and The Message Behind Gospel Music. One of his goals is training and equipping the next generation of worship leaders and songwriters. Nate is a graduate of Cornerstone University (B.S.) and Calvin Theological Seminary (M.A.) Nate is married to LaShaunda and they reside in Kentwood, MI with their little girl, Nyla Joy.
Visual Artist: Maria Fee
Dr. Maria Fee is an artist, theologian, and educator. Her visual art explores ideas of fragmentation, metizaje (cultural mixing), alienation, and hospitality. These notions also drive her theological endeavors currently explored in the book Beauty Is a Basic Service: Theology and Hospitality in the Work of Theaster Gates, Fortress Press. As a seminary professor, Maria applies art-based methodologies to theological courses such as The Visual Arts and the Christian, Word and Sacrament, and Capstone Theology and Art. Dr. Fee holds an MFA in painting, M.A. in theological studies, and a PhD in theology and culture.
Spoken Word Artist: Jonathan Skaggs
Jonathan Skaggs is a performer, writer, and producer originally from Sanibel Island, Florida. He holds a degree in Musical Theatre from Samford University and a certificate in Worship Leadership from the Center for Worship and the Arts. As a performer, Jonathan has traveled the country as an actor and singer, working on both professional theatrical productions and Christian storytelling tours.
As the Creative Director for GENERATE by YM360, Jonathan wrote, produced, and directed three Christian music and storytelling touring productions, which were seen by over 30,000 audience members. He routinely writes and produces commercial film projects. His film Ride On, which he wrote and executive-produced, premiered in 2025.
Jonathan grew up heavily involved in church, where he first discovered his passion for storytelling. He hopes to play a small role in inspiring and launching young artists into lives filled with storytelling and artistry.
Currently, Jonathan serves as the Director of Enrollment Management for Samford University's School of the Arts, leading recruitment and admissions efforts for all arts degrees. His greatest joys are spending time with his wife and going on adventure walks with his son.
Dance Coordinator: Sarah Smoot
Reverend Sarah Wilcox Smoot is an ordained Elder in the United Methodist Church and is the senior pastor of Church of the Reconciler in Birmingham, Alabama. She holds a Master of Divinity from Duke Divinity School and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry from Wesley Theological Seminary. Sarah is a lifelong dancer and weaves dance into her ministry with the church. She believes liturgical dance is a ministry of giving thanks for the body, as well as offering worship to God. Sarah creates movement prayers that are accessible to all people in order to reconnect the body with the journey of faith. Sarah’s dance influences include ballet, modern, and African styles, and she performs with Sanspointe Dance Company. She is married to Tyler Smoot, and they have two children ages 7 and 4.
Worship Coordinator: Jonathan Rodgers
Jonathan Rodgers has been a pianist, worship leader, arranger/composer, and conductor for over twenty years. Currently, he is Assistant Professor and Coordinator of the Music and Worship program at Samford University. He has served churches in Mississippi, Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama and has also been on faculty at Lee University. A native of Memphis, Rodgers earned his Bachelor of Music in Music Education and Master of Music in Church Music degrees from Samford University and the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Choral Conducting from the University of Southern Mississippi. Jonathan has a heart for the local church and currently serves as Worship Minister at The Church at Liberty Park. Jonathan is married to Alicia, and they reside in Birmingham with their four children. You can find his published arrangements on various platforms (including JWPepper and Sheet Music Plus) or follow his most recent album "Be Still: Worship at the Piano" on Spotify. For all other info, be sure to visit his website: jrodgemusic.com.
Tech Coordinator: Andrew Henderson
Andrew Henderson is a Worship Arts Director and experienced AVL technician with a passion for creating immersive worship experiences. After growing up in Alabama, Andrew studied acoustic guitar, audio engineering, and music production at Appalachian State University, where he met his wife, Michelle. The couple moved to Birmingham after graduating, where they both started to become deeply involved at their local church, Grace UMC. Andrew now serves as the Worship Arts Director at Grace, leading and training the church’s mostly-volunteer music and tech teams. In addition to his work at Grace, Andrew has been running his own company, Lost in Sound, since 2012, providing live event production and AVL integration for churches and venues. He’s worked with a variety of churches, helping them build and optimize their technical setups to enhance worship environments. Andrew is passionate about teaching others and enjoys equipping worship teams with the skills to effectively use AVL systems in ministry. This summer, Andrew will serve as the Tech Director at Animate, overseeing audio, video, and lighting for worship, as well as leading hands-on classes on AVL systems and techniques for campers interested in technical ministry. When he’s not leading worship, training teams, or working events, Andrew enjoys spending time with Michelle and their children, running, and playing music around town.
Showcase: Cedar Creative
Cedar Creative is a Birmingham-based film production company built on one simple premise: every problem can be solved with a story. We work hard to find engaging questions to ask with each piece and bring them to life on screen.
Preston Little
Preston first picked up a camera in 2013 and never looked back. He grew into his career as a filmmaker by working on film sets during college. He loves seeing ideas come to life on the screen.
Kevin Johnson
As a kid, Kevin loved nothing more than telling a good story. His two great passions are communication and organization. Kevin’s 10+ years of experience in communication and organizational leadership helps us move the Cedar vision forward.
Ethan Milner
Ethan’s childhood obsession with movies has carried him to a career of making films and telling stories. His big goal is to make cinematic, original content that tells your story. With 10+ years of experience, Ethan can help you tell your story in an engaging, visual way.
Greyson Welch
Greyson began his film career crewing on feature films. In between learning from larger sets, he diligently created his own projects. Years later - Greyson still loves the process of making films and hopes to do so for the rest of his life.
Instructors & Staff
Toolbox Instructors
Student Staff
Classes & Activities
Toolbox Classes
- Music / Guitar Track
- Music / Piano Track
- Music / Drums Track
- Music / Voice Track
- Spoken Word Track
- Dance Track
- Technology Track
- Visual Arts Track
- Electives
Available classes include:
- Worship Leadership – This class delves into the key habits and practices of effective worship leaders. You’ll explore essential skills for leading with confidence and purpose, both on and off the platform. Topics include leadership dynamics, communication, and fostering a strong worship environment.
- Beginner Guitar – A foundational course covering essential chords, voicings, and techniques for both acoustic and electric guitar players. This class will equip you with the skills to start playing and understanding the guitar in a musical context.
- Rehearsing and Leading a Band – Learn effective band rehearsal strategies including minimizing distractions, preparation techniques, goal setting, maintaining focus, and fostering collaboration. You’ll also explore how to honor God in your preparation and performance as a worship team.
- Intermediate Guitar – Designed for more experienced players, this class focuses on refining guitar tone, using effects, and mastering lead techniques. You’ll also expand your skills with advanced guitar techniques for a more polished sound.
Available classes include:
- Worship Leadership – This class delves into the key habits and practices of effective worship leaders. You’ll explore essential skills for leading with confidence and purpose, both on and off the platform. Topics include leadership dynamics, communication, and fostering a strong worship environment.
- Beginner Piano – This course introduces the basics of music theory, chord playing, and sight reading. It includes hands-on activities designed to match the skill level of participants, providing a solid foundation for piano playing in a worship setting.
- Rehearsing and Leading a Band – Learn effective band rehearsal strategies including minimizing distractions, preparation techniques, goal setting, maintaining focus, and fostering collaboration. You’ll also explore how to honor God in your preparation and performance as a worship team.
- Intermediate Piano – Focuses on techniques and styles for using the piano in a worship context, especially within a band. This class will explore the role of the piano/keyboard in worship, offering tips, techniques, and tools to help you lead worship and support the worship team effectively.
Available classes include:
- Worship Leadership – This class delves into the key habits and practices of effective worship leaders. You’ll explore essential skills for leading with confidence and purpose, both on and off the platform. Topics include leadership dynamics, communication, and fostering a strong worship environment.
- Beginner Drums – Designed for those new to playing drums in a worship setting, this class covers the essentials of rhythm, basic drumming patterns, and how to keep time effectively in a group context.
- Rehearsing and Leading a Band – Learn effective band rehearsal strategies, including minimizing distractions, preparation techniques, goal setting, staying focused, and fostering collaboration. You’ll also explore ways to honor God through your preparation and performance as a worship team.
- Intermediate Drums – For drummers with a foundational understanding of rhythms and basic techniques, this class focuses on expanding your skills within a worship setting. You’ll explore more complex rhythms, time signatures, and develop a feel for a variety of worship music styles.
Available classes include:
- Worship Leadership – This class delves into the key habits and practices of effective worship leaders. You’ll explore essential skills for leading with confidence and purpose, both on and off the platform. Topics include leadership dynamics, communication, and fostering a strong worship environment.
- Beginner Voice – Vocal discipline requires attention to the unique characteristics of each voice, but there are core principles that all singers should master. In this class, we’ll introduce young singers to these foundational principles of vocal technique, offering exercises and examples to help begin their vocal training journey.
- Rehearsing and Leading a Band – Learn effective band rehearsal strategies, including minimizing distractions, preparation techniques, goal setting, staying focused, and fostering collaboration. You’ll also explore ways to honor God through your preparation and performance as a worship team.
- Intermediate Voice – Building on the fundamentals, this class takes vocal health techniques to the next level with more advanced exercises. Students will leave with practical strategies for continued vocal development, providing tools they can use for years to come.
Available classes include:
- Performing Scripture – In this class, we’ll explore Scripture as "script" through theatrical script analysis and performance techniques. You’ll learn how to read and perform Scripture in a way that is both artistically rich and theologically engaged, bringing depth and meaning to your delivery.
- Proclamation in Context – This class focuses on bridging the gap between the content of a message and the context in which it is delivered. You’ll explore how to read the room and tailor your message to connect with your audience in the most impactful way.
- Writing for Performance – Students will receive a basic framework for writing a solo performance piece, along with personalized coaching through the writing process. This class provides an opportunity to grow as a performance artist by sharing and refining your work.
- Proclaiming with Purpose – Designed to inspire and equip young people with a passion for preaching, this class covers the foundations of biblical interpretation, sermon preparation, and effective communication. Through interactive sessions, group discussions, and hands-on practice, students will gain confidence in their calling and learn to connect with diverse audiences while discovering their unique voice in proclaiming the gospel.
Available classes include:
- Building Dance for Worship – This class equips participants with the tools to create choreography for worship. We will focus on finding inspiration for dance that can be used in Animate Closing Worship. Additionally, participants will learn how to incorporate dance within limited rehearsal time and utilize the strengths of the community.
- Preparing to Lead Worship through Dance – Inspired by George Balanchine’s famous quote, “First comes sweat. Then comes beauty – if you are lucky and have said your prayers,” this class explores the process of preparing our minds, bodies, and spirits to lead worship through dance. Participants will learn how to approach dance as an act of worship and how to move with purpose and grace. Wear comfortable attire that allows freedom of movement.
- Live Sound for Worship – This class covers the fundamentals of live audio, including microphone techniques, signal flow, amplification, optimization, and troubleshooting. Participants will gain hands-on experience with the tools and techniques used to ensure high-quality sound in a worship setting.
- Lighting and Video for Worship – Focused on the essentials of stage lighting and video/media, this class explores lighting strategies, fixture types, and styles. It also covers video and media production techniques to enhance the visual aspect of worship services.
Available classes include:
- Theology of Art – This class explores the theology of kingdom shalom and the role of the arts in worship, mission, and society. Through presentation and discussion, participants will engage with how art plays a vital role in the Kingdom of God and its expression in church settings.
- Art in God’s Kingdom – In this workshop, participants will create two-dimensional paper sculptures (mini worlds) that reflect and imagine what kingdom shalom looks and feels like. The class encourages imaginative thinking, meditative art processes to help process Animate experiences, and collaborative work. The artwork created will ideally be displayed in the gallery alongside the instructor's pieces.
Available classes include:
- Word and Image – This class explores the theological reflection and creation of visual art for use in worship spaces. What does it mean to place art in sacred spaces? Together, we’ll wrestle with this question while creating our own art to glorify God.
- Global Worship – This workshop highlights and appreciates diverse worship styles from around the world. Participants will experience singing, prayer, and other worship elements in unique ways. We’ll explore similarities and differences, learn how to incorporate these styles into our own contexts, and reflect on what the Bible says about worshiping together from every nation, tribe, and tongue.
- Filmmaking – This class introduces basic filmmaking principles with hands-on experience. Participants will learn how to light a scene and set up a camera, gaining foundational skills for creating visually compelling content.
- Dance as Prayer – In this class, we’ll discuss how the body engages in prayer. While we may not always notice, we pray as bodies, and intentionally using our bodies deepens our connection with God. We'll explore established prayer postures (like bowing, kneeling, and raising hands) and how using the body's full range of expressive movement enhances our prayer life.
- Beginner Music Theory – This class covers how musicians organize music, focusing on rhythm, pitch, and key concepts. Students will practice listening, describing, and writing music, building skills to effectively communicate with other musicians.
- Intermediate Music Theory – Tailored for worship contexts, this class covers core music theory concepts, with an emphasis on chord charts over standard notation. Students will focus on harmony, key identification, and how to support worship with musical confidence, applying these principles to arranging and creating transitions.
- Exploring Liturgy in the 21st Century – This class fosters an understanding and appreciation of traditional liturgical elements, while creatively exploring how they can be integrated into modern worship settings.
- Sharing Your Christian Testimony – Every story matters, including yours! This interactive class helps teens learn how to share their testimony in an authentic, powerful, and inspiring way. With practical tips and real-life examples, you'll discover how to confidently share your story of faith, struggles, and victories to inspire others and point them to Christ.
Other Activities
- Worship Services
- Small Groups
- Animate Studios
- Animate Showcases
- Animate Late Night
- Festival of Worship
Animate FAQ
- Is it necessary to bring a mentor to camp?
- Is Animate a residential camp or a day camp?
- Should I bring my art supplies and/or instruments?
- If I don’t have a musical talent, can I still be part of Animate?
- What does a typical day at Animate look like?
- Will I be with my friends at camp?
- What age group is eligible for the camp?
- Will I have the opportunity to select my Toolbox Classes?
- Is this camp limited to the Baptist denomination only?
- What is the theological foundation at Animate?
- What role will Adult Mentors play at camp?
Partnership Opportunities
We invite you to invest in the next generation. By investing in Animate, you'll connect with a dynamic group of aspiring artists aged 12-18, along with their adult mentors, parents, and home churches. Partner with us to help shape the future of worship and the arts in the church community. Discover partnership opportunities for Animate 2025.
Animate 2025 Partners
Thank you to our partners for supporting the next generation of artists and shaping the future of worship and the arts in the church community.
Silver Partners:
Calvin Institute of Christian Worship
TAB Media Group
Taco Mama
