Traveling Group, Dramatic Pause, Ministers in Sweden
SAGU’s traveling ministry group “Dramatic Pause” recently visited Sweden to minister through drama. They were involved in street ministry and also ministered in schools and churches.
According to Alyssa Roller, “Going to Sweden was one of the most amazing opportunities I have ever had. It was absolutely life-changing.” The group was involved primarily in drama ministry in various venues. They wrote three new human videos while in Sweden, one in Finnish and two in Swedish.
Dramatic Pause ministered on the streets of Stockholm during Jesus Manifesto. After they performed the human videos “I Am” and “Pray for Sweden,” a woman cam up to them with tears in her eyes. She told the group, “I am on my way to speak in Parliament, and I was searching for inspiration. After watching you, I have found the inspiration I need. Thank you.” According to Victor Jantz, “That made the whole trip worthwhile.”
“People on the street would tell us that we came at the perfect time in their life because they needed encouragement to move forward,” said Ashlyn Anderson. Those who came to services after the street ministry truly had an experience with God. A few gave their hearts to Christ for the first time and others were reaffirmed in God’s love for them.
The SAGU students spent a lot of time with the gypsy people and learned first-hand about their culture. Dramatic Pause also did services at after school centers and soccer leagues. In addition, the group spent time with teens at a local youth center. They also spent time in a Swedish slum, which was heavily influenced by gangs who terrorize the residents. “Even though gangs were evident in this town,” stated Derrick Malnar, “The power of Christ is beginning to fill those streets and bring the enemy to its knees.”
The group also performed in public schools, teaching about morals and life. The students really connected with the SAGU students and enjoyed the skits. One student told Victor that though a lot of people come tell them to make good choices, Dramatic Pause was the only group they had liked, the only one to get across a good message and still be really funny.
“It was amazing to see God change hardened hearts right in front of us,” said Brent Gwin. “The Swedish people as a whole were very open to the Gospel message and many seeds were planted in lives all across the Stockholm area.” According to Taylor Coakley, “God showed up in a powerful way in Sweden. I’m convinced that God is preparing His people for a revival in Sweden.”
