In the midst of schedules turned upside down and the tragedy of illness during this COVID-19 crisis, we might be asking what God is doing. We might be hungering for community and inspiration in a new way during this time of social isolation. But we lean into the hope of the resurrection and remind each other that God is still at work. "When you walk through fire, you shall not be burned, nor will flames consume you." (Isaiah 43:2)

The Creation Project (@the.creationproject) is one treasure that has been born out of this time of pandemic. It is thriving #throughfire.

I recently had the pleasure of chatting with two of the founding members of The Creation Project: Ricky Cruz (@arc.crtv) and Sonia Quuintero (@soniaquuintero). For some time, Catholic Creatives has been waving the banner for creativity and a new renaissance in the Church, and what a delight to discover more voices with their own take on this movement.

They are the real deal. Here’s what you need to know about this initiative stirring up from the West to the East coast of the United States!

A majority of artists joining the Zoom are young, many are in college, or newer to their craft or to the industry. The Creation Project’s leaders are striving to make it a nurturing and supportive environment for anyone who logs into their Zoom sessions, with a mission of "bringing artistic revival to the young church.”

Speakers such as Paul J. Kim, Fr Agustino Torres, C.F.R., and David Calavitta have been invited to speak and share in their Zoom sessions. Some who have joined the sessions are FOCUS missionaries, or who have worked with Catholic organizations and brands. Importantly, the heart for sharing the gospel through their art is evident in their work and the depth of conversation. Jazmin (@madeforgreater), another member of the team, writes, "Our church needs more artists like you to show how good our Lord is. The art you create has the opportunity to touch someone's heart and faith. I find comfort that what I create will not be for me but for the sake of others."

With over 90 artists on a recent Zoom call, they're keeping creation sessions and chats to small groups with break-out sessions, emphasizing connection and an opportunity to create, each led by one of the members. Sonia Quuintero shared why she felt called to join the creative leadership team: “...it was such a great reminder that I am not alone in this journey to Heaven through the arts. I have personally found myself the most challenged and molded by other people in my faith who have taken the time to be critical of my work and set the bar higher for me. Loving Jesus while cultivating our talents is about unity, and coming together to run to Him through them."

Check out @the.creationproject for their latest work and info on upcoming Zoom sessions!

Sheena Devota is a fan of things that are true, good, and beautiful. You can find her on instagram at @kairosvancity and @raincitygrams.