183: CrossTalk- Music and Arts

In this episode of CrossTalk at the Kroc, JonathanRaymer is joined by Nick Simmons-Smith, Territorial Music Director, and Bethany Farrell, Director of Creative Arts, to explore the vital role of music and the arts within The Salvation Army. Rooted in the movement’s history—from William Booth using brass bands to draw crowds in the streets—to today’s diverse creative expressions, music and the arts continue to serve as powerful tools for both worship and evangelism. Nick and Bethany unpack how creative ministry goes beyondperformance—it becomes a pathway for discipleship, community, and spiritual formation, especially for young people. Through programs like weekly corpsrehearsals, divisional gatherings, and summer conservatories, the Salvation Army creates opportunities for youth to grow in skill, confidence, and faith while building lifelong relationships.The conversation also highlights impactful initiatives likeJesus Theatre, which presents the gospel in a visually compelling and accessible way, and mission trips that use music and the arts to connect with communities around the world. Ultimately, this episode emphasizes that creativity is part of God’s design, and when used for His glory, it becomes a powerful vehicle to share the message of Christ, build the Church, and transform lives.https://linktr.ee/crosstalkatthekroc