"Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth; burst into jubilant song with music." Ps. 98:4
Personal perspective: The role of worship coordinator landed on us unexpectedly nine months ago and it has stretched us in every way. Helping others into the presence of God takes more than being worshippers ourselves. This has been, and continues to be, the main challenge we face. In the meantime, the Board, Pastor Billy, the Worship Team, and everybody else in the church have been extremely forgiving to us. Much as we strive to improve what we do, we realize that our greatest asset is the trusting relationship with our coworkers and the people we serve. We want to say thank you for all your support.
Aspirations: Within the abilities and resources available to us, here are some of the things that the Worship Team aspires to:
We believe that our corporate worship should reflect the freedom for which we were set free (Gal. 5:1). This does not mean anything goes; it means removing hindrances to our encounter with God and allow latitudes in the ways we respond to the Holy Spirit. Singing is a vital part of this, but that is not the only way of expressing oneself. We can engage our senses more fully. As we practice it in the Worship Team, may we also encourage you to expand your "vocabulary" of expression in praise and worship? To some this might mean simply putting on a smile; to others raising hands, adding body motions, singing in the Spirit, picking up an instrument, and so on. Give other parts of yourself a chance to participate, and be creative!
It is also our firm belief that worship should be Christ-centered and in line with the Scriptures. Many contemporary worship songs talk about how "I" feel and what "I" need, but we find fewer songs that directly address who He is. The balance is important, we think, for we are to worship in spirit and in truth (Jn. 4:24). For this reason we will not eliminate truth-filled hymns and time-tested choruses, and we will make conscious effort to bring up the Scriptural background of a song.
Finally, we believe that worship is an integral yet integrated part of the entire service. It is important in its own right, but it should not be compartmentalized. Working closely with Pastor Billy and Gail Hansen, we strive to make our worship experience mesh seamlessly with the rest of the service. We are open to suggestions in all areas of worship service.
Some facts: Since last June, 21 people have participated in the Worship Team (currently 17 and more to be added). Nine people also sing in the Choir; four play in the Youth Band. We have sung over 260 songs and hymns on Sundays since June, including 25 or so for the first time. In February, we started pre-service worship with an increased number of singers. The Worship Team meets every Tuesday night for a rehearsal.
In His service,
Noboru & Sachi N