Young people 'Stand Out' in faith-inspired musical

Courtesy photo STAND OUT PRODUCTION MINISTRY performed an original musical at First United Methodist Church in Newton two weeks ago. Brent and Pepper Noble have brought a diverse group of young people together in music and drama to spread God's word.

Pepper Noble, organizer of the Stand Out Production Ministry, said she "just felt called" to bring together the 20 young people who recently held their first performance of original the musical "No More Chains" at First United Methodist Church in Newton.

"I have always been in theater and singing in church," Noble said. "I just wanted to give youth a chance to use their talents, whatever their gifts. We train them to be ministers and use their talents for God, whether their talent is dance or rap or singing."

Noble said she has kids from Newton and Burkeville, "just everywhere, non-denominational." Twenty of them participated in the first production; six more have joined since then.

Joe Miller Jr., pastor of First United Methodist Church, said, "These youth have come together to spread God's love through their music, drama, skits and their personal witness. This was an event that will be remembered for many years by those who attended. Hearts and lives were changed."

Noble said the group rehearsed once a week in preparation for their first performance, "but the kids are involved in so many things like track and so on" that she's given them time off and is taking a vacation herself.

They do not have another performance scheduled, but they have acquired a building and will begin rehearsals again soon.

She said they plan to take their message "wherever God lead us," and is just awaiting the next call. For more information, call Noble at 379- 2915.