If you have a strong and growing relationship with people off stage, you’ll have more of a connection on stage. This works at different levels depending on the size of the congregation (see relational versus presentational worship leading). But for most small to medium-large congregations, it’s a real benefit for the worship leader and team to connect and visit before and after the service.
Conversations and greetings before worship signal connection, relational warmth, and access. They’re a way to gather feedback, help people feel welcome, and bring about a spirit of joy in the worshiping congregation.
Before the service, it’s helpful to have some pre-recorded music playing so that it’s not quiet as people show up, greet, and talk. The worship team members then can just say “Good Morning” or a simple “Hello and Welcome” to folks already seated or coming in. There is also the opportunity to visit with just one person or family in more depth. It doesn’t always have to be church business – things about the church ministry, the next meeting, etc., but these quick conversations can be about their families, news you recently heard or saw about them on Facebook, plans for the day, etc.
If you see someone you don’t recognize, move in that direction quickly. Welcome, connect, and find out if they are new. Knowing who is new is often tough, especially if your church has multiple services or is larger in attendance. The worship team must learn to grow confident about approaching and connecting with new folks. For the days you serve on the team, you are responsible for helping the overall worship experience work well.
Here are some thoughts about connection before and after:
Be Ready
You can wrap up your rehearsal, prayer, and details with about 15 to 20 minutes to spare. Use the remainder of the time to welcome and connect with the congregation.
Be Open
It’s tempting to stand around and talk only with others in the worship team. Of course, we want to encourage our group and build community, but we also strive to welcome others. Don’t stand in a complete circle. Be on the lookout for other people you know. Shake some hands and say good morning.
Be A Name Learner
Names are a huge part of relationship building. I have learned the key to learning names: to stop saying, “I’m not good with names.” You can become good at it with a bit of practice. At the very least, try hard to remember. READ: The Art of Remembering Names
Be Open To Feedback
It’s often in the quick moments that you will receive feedback from folks in the congregation. “I liked that song” or “Have you ever thought about trying this?” Be ready and willing to listen in to feedback and carry it back to the group.
Be A Misser
This has to be genuine, but it’s good to miss people when they are gone for a week or two. If you know they were on a trip, a quick question about their trip can build a connection. If you haven’t seen them, say, “I’ve missed seeing you – how’s it going?” Of course, if they say, “I was here last Sunday!” you can respond by saying, “Cool, I must have missed you.”
Be Strategic
Sometimes conversations that open up are bigger than anyone can handle in two minutes. Be strategic in your response. You can make a note to talk with the person this week. You can let them know you’d be happy to discuss the service. Another tip is to put the ball in their court. Tell them to call or email you this week to discuss it further. The pre-service time is a floating time, not an opportunity for significant discussions.
Be Kid Focused
If you ever see kids, that’s an excellent opportunity to connect. Talking to kids or about kids with the family is often easier. If they are new, ask for names, ages, grades, etc. Parents usually love it when a friendly person comes to engage the kids. Don’t be creepy, but eye contact and a quick connection is excellent.
How does your worship team connect with the congregation during the services?
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