As the Church Health Team continues its work on the new minimum factor identified through the Natural Church Development process, "Inspiring Worship Service," we want to continue to educate our congregation about the elements of this factor. Each month we will explore each element of this category through an article in THE CHIMES. Inspiring Worship Service has four elements:
- Personal Transformation in Worship
- Visitor-Friendly Church
- Anticipation for Worship
- Care for Children and Youth.
Personal Transformation in Worship.
In this element, we explore the idea that the worship service gives us the sense that we are touched by God during the service. During the worship service we feel the presence of the Lord touching us and others. We are touched and energized by various aspects of the service – the scripture, the sermon, the music, corporate and personal prayer, the liturgy, communion, the fellowship with one another, the sense of community with other Christians, the children’s time, special celebrations, the participation of lay members and youth in the service.
No one element of the worship service alone transforms us. Different Pastors have different preaching styles, and that is good. The Pastor should not be a different person when preaching; rather his or her style should reflect his or her normal personality. The Pastor and sermon should focus on real questions and needs of the congregation, concentrating on subjects for which the church can offer help in implementing. For example, preaching on the stewardship of Christians can help us prayerfully consider how we use our time, spiritual gifts and money to further the mission of PUMC and the mission of the United Methodist Church to make Disciples of Christ.
Likewise, there is no one right style of music. This is an area in which we find the greatest diversity in style, so it is impossible to have one, right style. Whatever the style, the music should have a positive, enthusiastic quality. Being open to new, contemporary music, for example, is an indicator of a church that is open to growth and renewal.
Active involvement of the greatest number of people in the worship service is another element of Personal Transformation. Trained lay liturgists, greeters, Scripture reading by lay people, songs presented by children and youth, announcements by lay leaders, musical solos and ensembles by members with musical gifts, testimonials by Christians sharing their spiritual journeys are all examples of involvement that help to create a worship service that will be experienced by those in attendance as "inspiring."
What inspires you about our worship service at PUMC? When do you feel the presence of the Lord touching you? Over the next month, really listen for God and be open to the Spirit during our service. Be open to being inspired by God.
— Church Health Team
