Leading music for worship in a contemporary/modern style can be tricky. There is the delicate balance between leading congregation singing and playing the music in a pleasing manner, which can quickly fall into performing for the congregation.
How does one approach this task in a manner which engages the congregation to participate fully in worship, yet also offer to God something pleasing?
“It is not you that sings, it is the Church that is singing, and you, as a member of the church, may share in its song.”
Those words are from one of my favorite writers/thinkers/theologians/question-asker Dietrich Bonhoeffer.
As someone who gets up and leads others in song I feel it is important to get out of the way of the people. We (those up in front) need to see ourselves as part of the congregation rather than as “worship leaders.”
And in doing so we should join in with all people of God singing, not those playing instruments and holding mics, not just those in our congregation, in our town – but rather we join in songs of adoration, longing, wonder, and praise with all who call themselves children of God.
The other day I found myself with something I haven’t had in a while…quiet. How did that happen you ask… Here are the steps: 1. Get yourself… Read more “I was struck”
Red Chair Music 