How to Develop Worship Teams
Music and singing are an integral component of the worship experience. Strong worship can usher congregants into the presence of the Holy Spirit and can set the tone for the preaching of the Scriptures. As the Holman Bible Dictionary describes it, worship is the "human response to the perceived presence of the divine, a presence which transcends normal human activity and is holy." Creating a context for the presence of God and this response by people is the task of the worship team. Proper vision and structure will empower them.
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Instructions
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Define the worship vision for the church. What are the end goals? How should the worship service flow? What sort of energy level is desired in the service? Asking these questions will help guide the process of developing a worship vision. It is also important to consider the church's view and application of the Bible to worship, namely, what focus and practices are considered appropriate? The church culture and demographics should be considered when determining a suitable style. Also important is a good understanding of the community around the church. Who is the church hoping to connect with and how will they receive the style and overall vision? Once a vision is crafted it should be vetted with key church leaders and amended.
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Recruit a strong worship leader. Musical talent and knowledge are important components, but not the only ones. This person must also agree with the stated vision for worship in order to avoid future clashes with senior leadership and the loss of members. This person must be able to work with others and to handle disputes, for there are few things as personal and controversial in a church as the flow of the music ministry. This person must also be able to train others. It's important that singers and musicians grow in their skills and that new members are developed.
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Draft a practice structure. It's important to have a set and agreed upon time for practice and an agenda. This should be agreed upon between the senior pastor and worship leader. Music sheets, sound equipment and instruments should be ready to go when practice starts. Music practices can drift off focus because of "doodling" by musicians or conflicts about the style and selection of songs. Everyone must know what's expected of a practice session and what are the appropriate times and venues to make suggestions. This will ensure an orderly and productive practice session.
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Set up an audition structure. The idea of auditioning may seem unkind to some when it comes to church ministry. The worship team is unique among other departments of the church, however. Singing off key or poor musicianship can break the concentration of worshipers. Additionally, some people can sing on key and others lack this ability. A fair and pre-announced audition policy can help save people's pride and feelings.
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Create a "second team." There will be people who have potential but are not yet ready for the platform. A second team can meet on a different day for practice, and the worship leader and other senior team members can invest time to help them develop their skills. This will accomplish two things. First, it will ensure a steady flow of backup musicians and singers to replace members of the first team who move or leave the church. Second, it will keep people from becoming discouraged. It's one thing to be told we are not good enough. It's another to be told we have potential and then to be provided with an opportunity to grow. This is helpful in a church setting.
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Tips & Warnings
Define your worship style based not only on who you have but who you wish to reach. Visitors will evaluate the church based on its worship style. This may determine if they feel at home or continue their search.
References
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