Tips for effective "blended worship"

One of of the realities of our church is that we have "blended worship".  In other words, we try to be transgenerational in our time of praise.

Like anything else, we can sometimes go to either extreme, either extremely traditional or extremely contemporary, but on the whole we attempt to have a worship experience that appeals to everyone.

Of course, all of those terms used to describe worship (traditional, contemporary, blended) can be extremely subjective according to the perception, likes and dislikes of the person (or group) you are talking go.

Just today, I found an article by Philip Nation about leading worship.  I would suggest that every leader involved in a contemporary or blended service should give it some thought. Here's an abbreviate version (you can find the original at worship.com.)

Most of what is written, below, I agree with - some of it I do not.  For instance, point number 5 (below) is to only sing in 4/4 time.  I appreciate all kinds of different tempos as I worship God.

Anyway, use the article as a tool to propel yourself to effective worship at Stone Church.

ADVICE TO WORSHIP LEADERS (By Philip Nation):

1. Just sing the song. When you improvise vocally, you confuse everyone.

2. We don’t sing La-La-La. Some songwriters substitute words with Ooh’s, Aah’s, and La’s. It may sound cool on the radio, but it's uncomfortable during worship.

3. Open your eyes. If you keep your eyes closed during the entire music set ... it tells the worshipers that you don’t really care if they are participating or not.

4. Stop singing in the key of "Tomlin." When you lead worship songs in a key only fit for professional singers, most men will simply not sing.

5. We only know 4/4 time. Lead music that we can all sing easily so the focus is on the content of the words and not trying to keep the beat.

6. Plan the transitions. I’m not advocating a mini-sermon between songs, but at least have a plan.

7. Turn up the lights. When the lights are turned down in order to highlight the cool set, Gobo lighting effects, and newest ProPresenter backgrounds, it's difficult to experience the community aspect of worship.

8. Dress like it is worship that matters. Leaders need to contextualize, but only to the point that you blend in with those you are seeking to reach and lead.

9. Love Jesus more than music. All leaders face the temptation to love their work for God more than God Himself. No matter what else happens on the platform, it will be obvious where your passion rests.

Just some thoughts for a Tuesday.