Will's emerging vision for the worship ministry

• Worship is led by a diversity of teams each having diversity that reflects and ministers to the diversity in the congregation. The diverse members on the team are all instrumental in the choice of songs and the selection and development of new music.
• Each service is prepared for in a "practice", at least two days prior, which serves as a focal point for both spiritual and technical preparation.
• Vocalists depend less on lyric sheets as a result of practices.
• The practice is an opportunity to "consider how we may spur one another on to love and good works."
• Less experienced musicians are empowered by regular practices rather than intimidated by an extremely challenging "off-the-cuff" environment.
• The talent of accomplished musicians is invested in "playing skillfully"--rather than "winging it"--as a result of regular practices.
• The sound operator is a valued member of the team. His contribution is sought and recognized as that of a musician as well as a technician.
• The teams serve as a vehicle for evaluating, developing, and introducing original music. Open, loving communication--a mark of mature Christianity--is a critical issue enabling this process to work.
• Following the pattern of Jesus, leaders continuously develop new leaders in their teams by regularly exposing them to the congregation as leaders. Teams are thus able to lead in the absence of the "leader," and transitions are less turbulent.
• Special music is often supplemented or provided by worship teams with preparation time.

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updated 16-Aug-2002