“It is Christmas every time you let God love others through you… yes, it is Christmas every time you smile at your brother and offer him your hand. The coming of Jesus at Bethlehem brought joy to the world and to every human heart.”
– Saint Mother Teresa
Another year comes to a close, and our hearts are full of joy as we reflect on the privilege of living out our mission. Our mission – to grow youth in character and purpose – is more than a statement; it is the guiding compass that shapes every choice we make, every story we tell, and every moment we share with our students and families. In this newsletter, we’re sharing the how and why of our Jesus-centered approach.
This commitment to character formation has been part of Journey from the very beginning. Our leaders carry shared values into every class and rehearsal, modeling the character and purpose we aim to cultivate in every student. Their example ensures that our mission is not just a statement but a lived experience
Journey Theater began when our founder, Bethany, watched her son experience theater for the first time. She shares a bit of the story and how it inspired her to start Journey Theater.
“He tried sports, but preferred singing, dancing and making people laugh. We got involved in a Christ-centered youth theater organization in Spokane in 1998. We loved that he was learning theater skills from people who loved Jesus! It was such a life-giving experience. When our family decided to move to Vancouver in 2001, I knew I had to try to make it happen here for my kids.”
– Founder, Bethany Larson
Voices from Our Community
From rehearsals to performances, the love of Christ informs how we build community, grow skills, and encourage one another. Parents, leaders, and students alike have shared how their theater experience is shaped by Journey’s values and faith. Here’s what members of our community have to say about what it means to be part of a Jesus-centered theater community.
To me it means that Jesus is the heart of why Journey exists. He is the very foundation behind it and what we hope to share through it, and the reason it’s still going. – Student
I think sometimes acting/ theater can feel super exclusive or clique-ish but with Journey being Jesus centered Ii think that really helps create a space where people feel safe, encouraged,and loved. – Parent
Knowing that Journey is Jesus-centered makes every part of the process more meaningful. In a secular environment, I can still perform for the Lord and honor him by loving my cast members during rehearsal, but it’s just between me and him. At Journey, I get to enter every rehearsal and every performance as a part of a family that is pursuing him together, and that’s really unique and special! – Summer Theater Adult
As a class coordinator, I see students being welcomed into community while growing in skill and I watch relationships build because of Jesus. I see students deepen their faith and overcome struggles and can attribute that to what God is doing through Journey Theater. – Parent/Leader
Christmas Blessing
We have much to celebrate this year at Journey Theater—both in the classroom and on the stage, as well as in the transformation happening at Manor Church. We are grateful for the joy, growth, and faith we share with our community. May the love and light of Christ fill your hearts this Christmas season, guiding you in every story you tell and every act of kindness you give.