Preachers (and Pastors) Don’t Dance

Tonight my church hosted an All-White Celebration in honor of my pastor’s birthday. The party came with much opposition and I really didn’t think it would happen when I first presented the idea. Though it seemed as if everyone (and I mean everyone) was determined to shut it down, it was my pastor’s desire and I was going to make it happen. Even up to the very last minute before the party it seemed as if everything still wanted to oppose the party. Nonetheless, the party was a success and my pastor was happy. Mission Accomplished!

In all white, we danced to the tunes of artists such as Frankie Beverly & Maze, all the way to Soulja Boy. We even had to go back into time with a little Bobby Blue Bland but we brought it back with a little “Walk it Out”. The interesting aspect for me was the reaction of some people in the crowd when I got out with the young adults to dance, trying to encourage the crowd to dance. (As an event planner, sometimes you have to get the party started to break the ice.) It looked like some were horrified to see the Executive Pastor (or E.P. as the young adults call me) on the dance floor. Why be shocked? I love to dance and danced before the pulpit and still love to dance outside of it from time to time.

While some may have found it inappropriate, I found it as a perfect opportunity to connect with the young adults of the church. They may not always connect with you in the traditional Sunday morning service but they will connect with you when they see you can (and are willing to) meet them in an activity that is fun for them. Sometimes we have to step outside of the binds of traditionalism and old school mentality to learn to “get in where you fit in” and enjoy the moment. All things must be done in moderation and I would never do anything to degrade myself. But I see nothing wrong with a little dancing every now and again. U-Turn and Cupid Shuffle work for me.

To all the people that think preachers and pastors don’t dance….yes they do. We all like to have fun, enjoy people, enjoy ourselves and appreciate being able to relax every once in a while. Maybe if more preachers and pastors danced every once in a while we all would enjoy a more balanced leader. As for me, I don’t think I am fully ready to retire my dancing shoes just yet.

So as the song goes, "I hope you dance". And my reply...yes I will.