New ministry role for music industry
DJs will now have access to dedicated pastoral support, thanks to a pioneering new role from Third Space Ministries
Third Space Ministries, set up and led by Baptist minister Carolyn Skinner, seeks to demonstrate God's love in the third spaces of society, with a particular emphasis on the leisure industry, including sport, music, cafes and nightclubs.
This week it announced the appointment of Luke Rollins as its first DJ Ministry Coordinator.
It highlighted escalating pressures in the DJ industry, with several high profile DJs cancelling tours or retiring in recent years, and subsequently sharing with fans their battles with depression, addiction and crippling performance anxiety.
Third Space has been working with a diverse group of more than 80 Christian DJs from across the UK, who have shared their own experiences of working in the music industry. They are also exploring how chaplaincy and nurturing support groups can contribute to greater wellness within the DJ community.
Luke Rollins is excited to take this venture to the next level.
With extensive experience as a DJ and promoter, Third Space said Luke understands the wellbeing and spiritual needs of the people working in the music industry and is looking forward to developing avenues for pastoral support for those who work and play in nightlife environments. He is committed to seeing chaplaincy normalised in music venues, events and festivals.
Luke said, ‘The strains upon those working in the music industry have never been so great, but I have also seen music as a powerful vehicle for spiritual connection and community.
'I believe that this new initiative will further develop these connections and relationships, opening doors for chaplaincy within the nightlife industries, providing much needed pastoral support and seeing the music industry flooded with the love and goodness of God.’
Marcia Carr, cruator of Girlz B Like, a platform which promotes women vinyl record selectors and music producers, and Mi-Soul Radio presenter, also welcomed this appointment.
'Working within the underground dance culture as a club and radio DJ has been a lonely place at times, and it tests one's faith,’ she said.
‘To have fellow believers to engage with, for fellowship and prayer, or to just talk with one of the DJ chaplains is such a help. They are regularly on hand to assist partygoers and clubbers whether inside or outside a club and the Third Space Ministries pastoral teams are invaluable.’
Third Space Ministries will officially launch this ministry at an event on Friday 13 April, 7.30pm at Crown House Creative, Morden.
Baptist Times, 06/04/2018