Worship is not a program -- it is an encounter with the Living God. It is not for the purpose of pleasing ourselves, but is centered on God, who alone is worthy of receiving our praises and prayers. Worship includes the entire service. Within this framework, there is movement from praise and adoration, to hearing the Word, to confession and response, to sharing, to being sent forth. The arrangements of the elements that make up a service may vary, but the reason we worship never changes.
It is expected that worship leaders will talk with the others on the worship team for that week (especially the pastor and song leader) at least 7 days, and preferably more, prior to the service being led, in order to coordinate all the elements so that they flow well and fit together thematically. Remember that the pastor is always available for consultation as you prepare the service.
Be creative in planning worship, and consider using various media such as:
• Visuals: banners, paintings, and photographs can be hung at the front of the chapel, on the balcony railings, or on the black felt backdrop behind the piano;
• The spoken word: dramas, readings, poetry;
• Movement: liturgical dance, processionals;
• Variety of music: congregational singing, instrumental or vocal solos, and group presentations. Check with the pastor to find out who is willing to participate in these. Make use of families, small groups, children, and youth when leading worship;
• Altar table: flowers and candles or visual art help to serve as a focal point to begin our worship;
• Bulletin cover: graphics, clip art, or scripture texts.
Worship leaders play
a vital role in the way our congregation experiences corporate worship.
Your thoughtful planning in advance and prayerful presence during
the service, and your openness to the Spirit disrupting those plans
when necessary, are all elements that prepare us to honor and glorify
God. May the Lord bless your efforts on behalf of WPMF, as we worship
God together.
All worship and other leaders for the service should arrive no later
than 8:30 a.m., and be finished setting up by 8:45 a.m. At that time
we will join together for prayer in the office. Pre-service music
or singing can help the congregation be ready to begin worship together
at 9:00 a.m.
A typical service will include the people of God gathering to praise,
to hear the Word and respond, to share our joys and concerns, to partake
in communion, and to be sent forth with God's grace.