Meet Our Founder!
Jessica Nigra is the Former Director and Founder of the “Joyful Twirlers” baton-twirling ministry. She has been blessed with three delightful daughters, Haley, Mollie and Emily. Her husband, Paul, is a kindhearted man with an amazing knowledge and understanding of the scriptures. His true gift is teaching and preaching the Word of God. It was Paul who thought of the name “Joyful Twirlers”: And my soul shall be joyful in the Lord; it shall rejoice in His salvation. Psalm 35:9
The Beginning
One summer morning, Jessica Nigra stood among the crowd of spectators crowded on the sidewalk, delighting in the small-town street parade. Parading down the street were the usual local school bands, clowns, scout groups and fire trucks with their resounding sirens. Among the group of parade participants were several baton-twirling troupes. Each would take their turn at the reviewing stand to perform for the judges and the spectators. While watching the young girls happily twirling and dancing, Nigra imagined her own daughters participating in an enjoyable activity such as baton twirling. Unfortunately, the troupe which we were observing was not the more conservative troupe that she would have chosen. Fortunately, our Lord placed the desire in my heart to start up and establish a quality Christian baton-twirling troupe: “Joyful Twirlers”.
Jessica's Calling
God gave each of us our own unique set of qualities and talents. And, because of these wonderful differences, qualifications for starting a Christian baton-twirling troupe can vary. Although Nigra's own baton twirling experience had been minimal (briefly in junior high), over the years she has developed a high level of self-motivation, determination and a sound work ethic. Nigra's professional background has mostly been in sales and marketing; however, she has also had the opportunity to work with children through special needs schools and Sunday school. Her service in the highly regarded Stephen Ministry program has taught her how to listen and to care for others. The skills acquired through Stephen Ministry have also been of great benefit in business as well. Nigra had the opportunity to spend quite a bit of time with treasured seniors through the family's nursing home evangelism efforts. She currently works as an educator and public docent at an historic house museum in Pittsburgh, PA and, of course, enjoys directing and coaching the “Joyful Twirlers” baton-twirling ministry.
Nigra liked to be an encourager. When she approached her church about starting up a baton-twirling ministry, they really embraced the idea and were quite supportive. The church did not hesitate to accommodate her need for practice space. The Nigras were relatively new members at the time and marveled at how supportive the church was towards their efforts in “Joyful Twirlers” as well as their nursing home ministry. That encouragement went a long, long way in helping the ministry flourish. Through the prompting of the Holy Spirit, a baton-twirling troupe was created in May 2000 that would encourage fellowship, build confidence in expressing the Christian faith and provide additional opportunities to share Christ’s love with others. Most of our coaches and helpers are volunteers and costs to participate are minimal. Our first session took place on May 1, 2000, at the Forest Hills Presbyterian Church. Nigra was truly overwhelmed when our Lord brought 10 enthusiastic young girls (who had never twirled a baton) into the ministry.
A Message From Jessica
It can be challenging juggling work, family and ministry. Recently, at the end of a workday at the museum, I bid goodnight to my coworkers, expressing my delight in spending my day off with them. “Now, I said, it’s off to work.” God provides our daily bread. I believe in the power of prayer. I believe it because I experienced it and I have indeed received my daily bread, literally. Oh, but my faith can be thrown off a bit by dreadful circumstances. I can get into that “Now, what do I do” mode. The majority of us go through times of economic hardship, but our Lord has not failed to provide just what we need and even more. Be faithful to what the Lord has called you to do, and He will be your provider. Even under financial stress to the point of considering personal bankruptcy, I have been able to successfully manage my “Joyful Twirlers” troupe as a complete volunteer. I desire to work for the Lord because He is the Most Excellent Father and also the very best employer.