An excellent way to begin puppet rehearsals is with prayer. Prayer helps puppeteers focus on the reason they are on the team, the holy and sacred mission set before them as they perform with puppets. Each puppeteer on your team brings with them to rehearsal the burden of problems and stresses that weigh on their minds. These burdens can influence the flow of a rehearsal or performance, especially when working with a youth team. Junior high and high school youth tend to have a more intense reaction than those younger or older than they. They are the least likely to be able to put their feelings on hold for the purpose of concentrating on a puppet rehearsal or performance. The members of your team may require your guidance, support, and understanding in dealing with these outside pressures. While prayer may be the quickest way to help your team focus, there may be times when spending a little more time might be beneficial.

Over the years I have written four devotions for puppeteers. 

Dedication of Hands -Overcoming Weakness -Losing Sight of the Mission -Handling Criticism

It is my hope that in utilizing scripture to address the challenges associated with puppetry the members of your team will be open to allowing scripture to comfort them in the everyday pressures they experience.