Canton (SD) UMC recently hosted "Christians Got Talent." (photos from Laurel Laubach)

At Canton (SD) United Methodist Church, a simple idea has grown into a meaningful tradition— one that celebrates the gifts of individuals while bringing the community together in worship and joy. 

About four years ago, Christians Got Talent began, with a vision to create a space where people of all ages could share their God-given talents in a welcoming and encouraging environment. While the details weren’t all figured out at the start, the response made it clear that the idea resonated. 

“Having been a worship leader for the last 27 years, I love worship music, but I knew there were people with other talents as well,” shared the event’s organizer, Canton UMC Worship and Children’s Ministry Coordinator, Laurel Laubach. “I also love the show America’s Got Talent. The show has so many different types of talent and ages, so I thought, how fun it would be to have a talent night at church and invite anybody and everybody, with the only rule being that your talent glorifies God? That's how Christians Got Talent was born.” 

In its first year, the event featured around 10 participants. In 2026, that number has grown to 16, with the church sanctuary filled with people coming to support and celebrate those taking the stage. The growth reflects not only increasing interest, but also the strong sense of connection the event has fostered. 

“We had pretty good attendance and participation from the get-go, but it has grown quite a bit, too,” Laubach shared. “People from outside of our church attend and share talents. People leave feeling the presence of God and refreshed.” 

A variety of talents were shared at Canton UMC. (photos by Laurel Laubach)

Participants this year ranged in age from just 3 years old to over 80, offering a powerful reminder that God’s gifts are present in every generation. The variety of talents continues to expand as well. While singing remains a favorite, the evening has also included instrumental performances such as piano solos, a clarinet duet, and unique expressions like a Taekwondo demonstration. 

The music shared during the event is all Christian music, but is presented in a variety of styles. This year's genres included country, pop, and even opera, reflecting the diversity of the performers. Each act adds something special to the evening, creating a space where creativity and faith come together. 

For the congregation, the impact goes beyond the performances themselves. 

“For the church, it reminds people that worship isn’t limited to singing hymns on Sunday—it can be expressed through all kinds of God-given talents,” said Laubach. “Whether someone is singing, playing an instrument, demonstrating a skill, storytelling, or even sharing something simple, it reflects verses like 1 Peter 4:10—using whatever gift we’ve received to serve others.” 

Though hosted and sponsored by Canton United Methodist Church, Christians Got Talent is open to the entire community. Whether stepping onto the stage or sitting in the audience, all are invited to be part of the experience. 

This year’s event also included a bake sale supporting the church’s “Paving the Way to Future Ministries” initiative. The goal was to pay off the church’s parking lot loan, allowing the congregation to focus more fully on ministries that serve others and make a lasting impact. 

Staff member Laurel Laubach, right, organized the event. (photo from Laurel Laubach)

Thanks to the generosity and dedication of the congregation and community, the church has already reached that goal. With the loan paid off early in the year, the church is now looking ahead with excitement toward new opportunities for ministry. 

One of the most meaningful aspects of the evening is the way it brings generations together, each person offering their gifts in their own way. 

“It shows that everyone has a place and a purpose,” Laubach affirmed. “God gives gifts to everyone, not just a certain age group or type of person. No one is too young to be used, and no one is too old to make an impact.” 

While the name may bring competition to mind, Christians Got Talent is something entirely different. There are no judges or buzzers— only encouragement, fellowship, and a shared desire to glorify God through the gifts God has given. 

As the event continues to grow, it remains focused on a commitment to creating a welcoming space where people of all ages can share their gifts and experience the joy of community.