Worship leaders are church shapers. They are, in some ways, along with the pastor, the face of the congregation. Depending on the length of the pastor’s tenure, even more so. The attenders begin to take on their modus operandi when it comes to the nuts and bolts of worship. Pastors and other church leaders also help model worship, but here are the ways that worship leaders shape the church:
Through weekend service interactions
The worship leader is really the first person that a guest sees at the church. After the greeting from the hospitality team, the worship leader is typically the first one to speak to them from the front. Worship leaders need to be warm, confident and friendly as they speak and interact from the stage. With both feet firmly planted and confidence that comes from knowing that it’s not about you, but about an invitation to worship the Lord, you say (in whatever you words you choose), “It is good to have you here today. Let’s worship together.” Other interactions include time among the congregation before and after the worship services. Don’t tuck yourself away – be among the church. Find time to talk with the band and tech team other times than right before and right after the service. Be available to receive people, their thoughts, comments and ideas.
Through leadership and organization
Worship leaders help shape the church through leadership and organization. No matter if you are full time are part-time, you have the opportunity to help create moments in worship where people experience God. And you help provide the needed organization so that the congregation can use their gifts in ministry while serving on worship teams.
Through questions
Worship leaders can ask questions to help shape the church. What can I do to help? What is our main goal? Do we need to do this? Why are we doing this? What can you tell me that would help me improve my work? A teachable worship leader is important. Ask questions to your pastor, your worship band, your tech team and other leaders.
Through prayers
Worship leaders are pastoral leaders in the congregation. Pray for your people, for the teams, for the pastor and for the ministry. Lead your teams in praying before rehearsals, before services and any other time you meet.
Through planning
What sacrifices are you making so that you are planned? Planning doesn’t mean that you leave out the Holy Spirit. The Spirit can work through planning so the right words, the right songs and the right moments happen in the future. Planning gives time for creativity and preparation. Each of these areas are crucial for worship ministry and it help develop a culture of growth in the church.
Through a great attitude
A great attitude is always a church shaper. If you are confident, happy and friendly then you attract people around you in the name of Jesus. We want to model Christ’s love to people. We need to be supportive of the pastor and church leadership and we need to be happy to be called to this church in this role for this season! Stay positive and ready to serve.
Through the development of the next worship leaders
In 60 years, you won’t be leading worship from the stage. But someone will. Who are you developing to be a future worship leader? In what ways do you give people the opportunity to develop their gifts for ministry?