Lawton conference to teach young adults the power of praise dance

Maria Meredith said her second Set Free Praise Dance Conference is an opportunity to show young adults that dance is a way to spread the word of God.

The conference is scheduled Aug. 16-17 at Cameron Baptist Church, 2621 SW C.

Meredith, the founder of Set Free Ministries, said she founded her non-profit organization as a way to draw young adults to the Lord while also providing mentorship to young people. And, the purpose of the Praise Dance Conference is to show those young adults the power of dance. It’s something Meredith firmly believes and a program she wants to build to the point of being able to take it on the road to destinations outside Lawton.

“I’m very excited,” she said.

Meredith knows the power of dance first-hand.

“I fell in love with dance when I was 40,” she said, of a 20-year relationship with a form of praise she and others find empowering.

“It brings a special joy,” she said, explaining the movements of dance worship “touches hearts in a way no other can, if you allow the Holy Spirit to utilize you” and that is something that is especially appealing to youth. “God touches people in different ways.”

Her goal this year is to build on the success of the 2023 conference. That first year drew 45 participants, with ages ranging from 8 to 61 (not everyone has to be a young adult to participate).

“Everyone is welcome, she said.

And, you don’t have to be skilled with dance: everyone from any skill level is welcome. All genres of dance will be displayed during the conference, with skill levels ranging from “those who know nothing to those who have been dancing for years.”

Participants will attend dance classes and workshops on Saturday, with the Friday session focused on worship and praise. The cost of registration includes three meals, as well as a ministry book and choreography to take home.