By Shannon Baker, BCM/D National Correspondent
ELLICOTT CITY, Md.—It was during the Wednesday night kids’ music class when Sherrie McKay heard the words of a hurting little girl.
“My parents are getting separated,” said the child.
Just hearing the words evoked deep emotions in McKay, reminding her of the time her own parents faced the same dilemma.
Tenderly, McKay asked how the student was doing, but what she heard was the school’s guidance counselor coming through the young girl’s response.
“Maybe it will be better if they are not fighting all the time,” she said.
To which McKay immediately thought, “We need to have the resources to help kids deal with these type of issues. These kids—and their parents—need to learn that God loves them, and He can give them peace and strength.”
To that end, McKay, music minister at Bethany Lane Church in Ellicott City, Md., since 1993, felt God put it on her heart to share about her personal childhood experience.
What resulted was an original musical theatre event created specifically for families.
Called “In My Room,” the one-of-a-kind production tells the story of the colorful Rogerson family who face a sudden storm in their lives.
Talking dolls, dancing robots and rock star posters, each representing the coping skills of three children in the story, come to life, helping the kids discover that no matter what troubles they face, God is with them and will give them unbelievable peace and strength.
With the original script and music written and arranged by McKay, the unique production features brightly colored sets, professional costumes, a vibrant cast, stunning choreography, a live band and a kids’ chorus.
And most importantly, it presents a message that changes lives.
“Everyone encounters struggles in life and the Rogerson family is no exception,” shares McKay.
McKay, who started writing the script in January, hopes that the musical will minister not only to her church’s families, but also to those in the community who don’t know where to turn to for help.
“My heart’s desire is that we will all be able to encourage our church family and permeate into the secular community with the message of hope that Jesus provides,” McKay said.
Furthermore, Bethany Lane Church is partnering with other community ministries who can help provide support for families in crisis.
McKay said that already, rehearsals for the production have garnered a big response in her church.
“People are discussing issues brought out in the musical. They are already being reached,” she said, asking for prayer for God to move even more. “It doesn’t matter what issue we face in life, God is there.”
Performances are scheduled for Saturday, June 5, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., and Sunday, June 5, 6 p.m. at Bethany Lane (3030 Bethany Lane in Ellicott City, Md.).
Tickets cost $6 per person with children 4 and under free. To purchase tickets, call or visit Bethany Lane Church at (410) 465-0150 ext. 14, www.bethanylanebaptist.org or at any His Way Christian Book Store. Seating is limited.