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Gathered to be Sent Nancy Nethercott

Now is the Time to Worship Patrick Butler

Worship as a Way of Life: Taking it Outside the Walls

Jeff Bjorck

L E A DER S H I P

Back to Basics

Dr. Chuck Fromm with Andrea Hunter

Multicultural Worship Three Ways to Connect Worship

with Mission by Nikki Lerner

Missional Worship

An Anchor in Uncharted Waters: Worship Leadership in a Pandemic by Tanya Riches

Table Talk

What is Best in Life by Brendan Prout

Team Dynamics

During the Pandemic by Rich Kirkpatrick

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69 Letters with Love

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scribed by Andrea Hunter

e usually think of our call as Christians in huge and expansive ways: “Man's chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy Him forever.” That’s a pretty good marriage of the call to worship and mission. That’s the macro, but the micro of my personal mission in worship begins with one word, a word shared with me by Robert Webber, one of the past century’s leading scholars in the theology of worship. That word is “remember.” The irony is right now I am wrestling with a disease called dementia, where capturing thoughts is like getting a knock on the door at midnight, catching a glimpse of something or someone through the window and by the time you wake up to respond, they are gone; the thought is gone.

STEPPING INTO LIVING MEMORY Remembering has been part of my stewardship, assembling teachers to look at the past of worship to understand and participate with the Holy Spirit to discover, rediscover and form the present and future. In unearthing the Odes of Solomon, in The Odes Project produced with John Schreiner, our goal was that we as a Church would never forget the power of intimacy,

We often think we remember by ourselves, but to remember well, you need others...

poetry, and passion that is part of every Jesus Movement. So we don’t think we invented worship, but rather we step into the worship that has been going on for millennia on earth and in heaven, so we see how wide and deep the expanse of worship is: its themes, its styles, it’s Holy substance. And so we build from a Scriptural foundation with biblical imagination connected to history and the great cloud of witnesses that surround us. I’ve worked alongside many people; they all have stories that connect to my life. And our stories together and projects launched and finished span many decades. We often think we remember by ourselves, but to remember well, you need others...even when you’re not struggling with this robber of memories, dementia.

WORDS, MUSIC, MOTION, AND EMOTION We need others and their words and actions to help us remember God’s faithfulness, his deliverance HOSANNA.We need brothers and sisters to remember that God is good, that he is glorious, that he is worthy of all praise HALLELUJAH; that he calls us to communion, community and family as our ABBA-

Father; that Jesus death and resurrection is the exclamation point on God’s rescue plan AMEN, and that Jesus has come, is coming and will come in triumph again MARANATHA! What do we do in those moments—such as the ones we are living in—where a virus is seemingly depriving us of our purpose, our jobs, our financial wellbeing? Or in the times when we can’t get to the door fast enough to catch a thought or idea, or we need help in our recall of where our help comes from? Then, we remember through music, through rituals, through bending knees, and raising hands. Our bodies remember for us. And our families and friends remember with us. We remember that God is working all of this to the good, because we “love Him and are called according to his purpose” (Rom 8:28). My mission has been and is to help you remember.

KEEPING IT PERSONAL I remember through my cell phone. I’ve relied a lot on my hand-held. Once you get separated from your network—the network of the Church, the community built around the living Word experienced and remembered—it’s like grasping for VO L . 29, N O. 2 | W O R S H I P L E A D E R .C O M | W O R S H I P L E A D E R

water. So much of my remembering is done by reaching out and touching someone in person, by phone, reaching out and bringing them into the network, the family, the song. I think of the exchange in You’ve Got Mail: Joe Fox/Tom Hanks tells Kathleen Kelly/Meg Ryan that putting a mega bookstore next to her intimate neighborhood bookstore—that was built and thrived on relationships—“wasn’t personal,” even though it resulted in her store's closure. Kathleen responds, “Whatever anything else is, it ought to begin by being personal.” Worship is personal. Worship is a Who—relationship, conversation—not a What. We must remember that. As I reflect on my mission in worship, I’d like to leave you with two more important “remembers:”

Remember that worship and ministry and mission begin with God, it is the Lord’s Church and unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. PS 127:1

Remember why you are worshiping. We do this always in remembrance of Him. LK 22:29; 1 COR 11:24

Remembering isn’t just focusing on something that happened long ago, vague nostalgia, but journeying to where and to whom the remembrance leads. It’s talking to our souls, when circumstance crowds out the truth. It is saying, “I will bless the Lord. I will not forget that He is Immanuel; He is with me. That feelings are ever so important, but truth trumps what I see and what I feel” (Heb 11:1). It’s letting hands and knees, hearts and voices remember when we cannot—and helping others to do the same.

REMEMBER TO PRAY I’m praying for complete healing in my mind so I can continue to fulfill my call, my mission. And I’m asking you to pray with me. I want to speak to you from my heart and tell you that whatever your myriad calls are as worship leaders, one of them will always be to help others remember, which begins with “re-member” (to assemble the body of Christ), and to be open to receiving their help when you are struggling to do the same.

You are the Name where we hide When the world’s gone mad And we’re crumbling inside You are our hope, when hope grows old Lord, you are the hope that we hold You are the memory that heals When we cannot recall The good or the real You are the Word when other words fade Lord you are the Name that still saves Excerpt from “The Name” (Andrea C. Hunter)

D R . C H U C K F R O M M SENIOR ADVISOR & FOUNDER OF WORSHIP LEADER MAGAZINE

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digital edition

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READERS AROUND THE WORLD 10 W O R S H I P L E A D E R | W O R S H I P L E A D E R .C O M | VO L . 29, N O. 2

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G AT H E R E D T O B E S E N T BY

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hile on a recent ministry trip, I visited the magnificent Albanian Orthodox Resurrection Cathedral in Tirané, Albania. It was there that I found a treasure…an Albanian Orthodox icon of the Holy Trinity based on Russian artist, Andrea Rublev’s famous original. I purchased a postcard version of the icon, and have since used it to ponder and reflect, not only on our trinitarian God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit, but on the missio Dei that flows out of the relationships within the Trinity. Take a moment to gaze at the icon.

LOVE’S OVERFLOW The theology expressed in the Latin term missio Dei articulates the belief that mission is God’s mission and we are God’s instruments in that mission. The starting point of missio Dei is a trinitarian God: mission is the purpose and action of the triune God. The relationship of LOVE that is evidenced in the Trinity is also how the triune God acts in the world. IWS President Jim Hart wrote: “The love of God is best displayed in the hospitable love of the Trinity. The loving life of the triune God overflows via ongoing continuous creation into all created things, especially humankind, and calls it back to the Source of Love.” The mission of God, to redeem all of creation, begins with the love of the Triune God.

His love endures forever PSALM 118

God so loved the world that He sent Jesus… JOHN 3:16

God demonstrates His love for us by sending Jesus… ROMANS 5:8

Love comes from God… God is love… This is how God showed love…he sent Jesus. 1 JOHN 4:7-10

What can separate us from the love of God? ROMANS 8:38-39

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WELCOMED

We are invited to come into the depth and intimacy of the Trinity and complete the circle at the Table, to join the missio Dei JOINING JESUS And WE are invited to join in this mission of LOVE…for the life of the world. Mission is not first something the Church does, but describes the very being of God and how God works in our world. In his book The Open Secret, Lesslie Newbigin articulates that “the Triune God is involved in a mission, and sends the Spirit-empowered Church [that’s US] to participate fully in that mission.” There is a dynamic relationship that exists between worship and mission—that gathering as God's people includes at its very heart our being sent out into the world in God's name…it is an “inside out” way of thinking and living. As we gather for corporate worship, we are transformed and renewed, and then sent out to do and be what God has called us to do and be. We are gathered and sent for the life of the world. Because, “God SO loved the world that God sent His only Son, Jesus…that NONE would die.” We are called to join Jesus, to join the Trinity, on a lifelong mission trip…for the life of the world.

You are invited to take your place at the Table with the Holy Trinity. There is a place for each one of us, a place hospitably extended to us to sit in fellowship, worship our trinitarian God, and discern our unique part in the missio Dei. We are invited to come into the depth and intimacy of the Trinity and complete the circle at the Table, to join the missio Dei…the movements of God in the world. I encourage you to gaze at the Albanian Holy Trinity icon, using it as a prayer window, to ponder for a few minutes what your response of “Here am I! Send me!” might look like.

Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth…; Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God…; Holy Spirit, Breath of the Living God: Renew us and all the world. Amen. N.T. WRIGHT

N A N C Y N E T H E R C OT T, D .W. S CHAPLAIN, THE ROBERT E. WEBBER INSTITUTE FOR WORSHIP STUDIES Nancy Nethercott was a missionary in Japan for 28 years and currently travels training leaders in foundations of biblical worship and spiritual formation globally. Nancy's doctorate is from The Robert Webber Institute for Worship Studies (IWS), where she serves as Chaplain.

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am a native New Yorker, Manhattan Island schooled at PS 6 on Madison and 82nd, scout troop 424. I lived one block away from Central Park and the well-known boat pond where I spent many blissful hours being a boy.

NEW YORKERS IN THE HANDS OF A LOVING GOD There are two things I know about New Yorkers… most are resilient and determined. The other is that in times of crisis most remember their roots and flock to churches. They are not so arrogant to think they can do emergencies without God, no matter the rough and tumble image. Take it from me… prayers are being prayed; knees are being bent; supplications are being made. And God is there. Certainly God is there. The One we sing praises to and worship. The living God who has not abandoned them is meeting each one who calls on His name. Just ask them. Millions of questioning New Yorkers—there are over 8 million 16 W O R S H I P L E A D E R | W O R S H I P L E A D E R .C O M | VO L . 29, N O. 2

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people in the five boroughs, 20 million in New York state— are “attending” church via live-streaming; they are listening to faith messages on the radio; they are watching evangelists and faith-based teachers on television. They are scouring the Internet for God messages or inspiration. Many millions of people in New York know they should not do this, cannot do this, crisis alone—and they are not. Consider for a moment what is about to happen—what IS happening today in that city of millions. God is drawing them to Himself, certainly, because that’s what God always does. Millions right there are about to make some kind of decision concerning God, or have made, or will make. This month. Right now.

IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES Would it be too difficult for God to draw and add just 10 percent of scared, hurting New Yorkers to the Kingdom at this

New York’s faith can only strengthen the entire country. Prayer is the starting point. Worship follows.

The believers are working, praying and doing, 24/7. These street-level ministers don’t care if the news sees them. They don’t care if they are “high profile.” They care about the people who are afraid, lonely and scared in their small out-ofthe-way apartments. They care that people are encouraged, strengthened and transformed in a life-giving way for the rest of their lives, however long that would be. We daily read about people in the medical field during this crisis being “pressed into service” who are still in medical school, retired, or have some bit of training that could be expanded in this time of need. If you have ever led a worship time in the remote mission field, or in a small group meeting, at a unknown conference or posted a YouTube video of a worship time, personal or public, now is the time to do it again. It’s time to step up and help millions of new believers focus on God in praise, so they too can have the peace of God that passes understanding to rule in their hearts and minds. God seeks worshipers, and I believe that may be because so much of God’s presence, purpose, understanding and comprehension come with it. If you worship, He will come, and that's not just a dream.

PRAY WITH ME: I time…to add to the believers and ministries (and rich history) already there? Would it be possible to add people who never before lived for God, or followed His ways or stepped foot into a church? If just 10 percent made that decision it would mean about two million new believers. There could be 1,000 new churches of 2,000 at that rate. Where are the pastors, teachers and worship leaders in place to handle such an influx? Can existing churches handle what would happen if just 10 percent of New Yorkers embraced Jesus? And what if 20 percent turned to Christ? Or 25?

READY, SET, GO Now is the hour for ministers, pastors, worship leaders and lay people of every denomination in New York to rise and deliver the message they have been practicing all their lives. Now is their finest hour. Now is the time they have suddenly become relevant to millions who need them to be there. And if I read New Yorkers correctly that’s exactly what’s happening.

NEW YORK

I owe it to New York to pray for this—because New York is where I’m from, my home for many years—that now would be the time for believers to have insight, wisdom, perspective and courage from the God who is there…Much of that will come through worship. And what is known as the “body of Christ” in the rest of America has the opportunity to receive millions of new family members. Now is the time for us to do whatever can be done for them. Faith is the strongest, most positive motivation for millions. Worship and praises are an essential element of faith. New York’s faith can only strengthen the entire country. Prayer is the starting point. Worship follows. PAT R I C K B U T L E R Former Religion editor of the Tyler Morning Telegraph, Tyler, Texas.

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WORSHIP as a way of life BY

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he word “worship” when applied to the sung variety almost universally prompts questions about music genres, with tired old terms like “traditional” and “contemporary” still commonplace (May I add, all musical or spoken worship is contemporary at some point in its history). Across time, visual art, drama, and dance have intermittently joined the worship conversation, but although certain faith traditions historically have a more outward, “gathering to scatter,” to be “missional” outlook on worship expression, in my expe18 W O R S H I P L E A D E R | W O R S H I P L E A D E R .C O M | VO L . 29, N O. 2

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rience, the focus seems to remain primarily inward. If the worship leader’s goal is to inspire worshipers to feel hope, encouragement, and even constructive conviction, as well as a deeper sense of closeness and relationship to God, such an inward focus is important and valuable. Yet, without a concomitant external focus, it can often be challenging to distinguish between worship and entertainment, and one can judge either one as successful if the congregation or audience leaves feeling energized and inspired: “Wasn’t worship great today?”

MORE THAN MUSIC As a musician, I certainly empathize with the value of uplifting worship music executed with excellence, but I also think worship should be much more. Many would point to the Greek word προσκυνέω (proskunéo), and its focus on the idea of kneeling and kissing the ground before God as an act of deep reverence. Music is certainly one vehicle for expressing such reverence, but it also seems to me that in some congregations, Sunday singing might be more typically classified as what was originally termed “praise”: upbeat songs that are engaging, but don’t involve the awe that comes with prostrating oneself before God because of His recognized greatness. Furthermore, there are many other ways to express reverence to God. With this in mind, let me suggest that successful worship on Sunday will stir the participant’s heart through sung prayer and preached truth with motivation to express such reverence—not simply in the sanctuary—but more importantly outside its walls. What if worship were more than midweek rehearsals and Sunday services? What if, instead,

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worship were a continuous way of life? Obviously, I am not suggesting anything truly new, but I wonder if we might become more intentional in this regard. What if we might re-appropriate what was evidenced in Jesus ministry and has been evidenced in the Church through the ministries of some who followed him such as Francis Xavier, The Waldensians, Sojourner Truth, Lillias Trotter, Amy Carmichael, Benjamin Lay, John Woolman and Anthony Benezet? What if “worship as a lifestyle” wasn’t just a slogan that emerged in the 1990s and early 2000’s with renewed gusto, but was the evidence of encountering, experiencing, embodying, and worshiping our Triune God in all we do?

PRACTICING THE PRESENCE Personally, I have both witnessed and experienced the value of viewing worship as a way of life. As a boy, I was greatly influenced by the writings of Brother Lawrence, a 17th century pot-scrubber in a Carmelite monastery. He spoke of the value of doing all things— no matter how large or small—out of love and reverence for God. Indeed, he claimed that he even flipped

Dave Eubank baptizes a new Christ follower. Jeff Bjorck thanks a Lifewater driller in Sub-Saharan Africa. 0 2

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The more we are aware of God’s intimate presence at every moment, the more we can be motivated to express loving reverence in all we do.

his breakfast egg with the intention to express his love to God. Of course, the more we are aware of God’s intimate presence at every moment, the more we can be motivated to express loving reverence in all we do (enhancing that awareness is undoubtedly an aspect of worship-leading). Brother Lawrence would remind us that this awareness of God’s presence takes practice….every day.1 Of course, calling your congregation to a life of worship does not mean asking them all to consider fulltime missions or even pastoral ministry. However, the Church is called to reverently and humbly walk before God, which includes pursuing justice and mercy, 2 especially to those who cannot speak for themselves. 3 Moreover, sharing the stories of those who have chosen fulltime lives of ministry can inspire the rest of us to ask, “What is God calling me to do?” Consider two of my dear friends who have inspired me in this way, simply by using the talents God had already given them.

ANSWERING THE CALL TO WORSHIP Dave Eubank was a U.S. Army Special Forces and Ranger officer who wondered how God could use a young retired soldier. In response, he was led to found the Free Burma Rangers ministry in 1997. Together with his wife and three children, he lives every day as an act of worship. Initially in response to the horrific persecution and ethnic cleansing in Burma, David felt the call to offer God his life in service. On his website, he explains:

In 1997 with the help of a Karen [indigenous Burmese] medic, Eliya, and many other ethnic leaders we started FBR. We started with the idea that even though we are small, if we helped one person they would be glad and we would be glad. I go to try to help because I feel it is God’s place for me—that is my soul; because oppression is wrong—that is my mind; because I love these people —that is my heart; and because I like to like to be on the frontline—that is my body. My wife and children go on missions with us… Whereas Dave and his Free Burma Rangers focus on Burma,4 more than 94 multi-ethnic relief teams serve not only in Burma but also in Syria, Kurdistan, and Iraq. Rangers document atrocities that the world denies and bring food, medics, medicine, clothing, and hope to help the wounded and suffering in jungles and deserts. Dave welcomes all ethnicities and all faiths to serve as Rangers, but at the same time, he lives out his worship unapologetically, frequently speaking aloud his prayerful conversation with God and inviting all Rangers to times of worship. His family’s testimony has resulted in many Rangers coming to Christ. Often working on the front lines of armed conflicts, Dave faces real danger on a regular basis as an act of worship.5 Whereas not all of us are called to do this, might it prompt the question, “God, how can my worship-leading call the Church to action and service as an everyday offering?”

Brother Lawrence’s writings, compiled in The Practice of the Presence of God, are freely available online. Micah 6:8 3 Proverbs 31:8-9 4 Burma is called Myanmar by those in power who continue to oppress internally displaced persons. 5 To learn more, see the Free Burma Rangers documentary. 1 2

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Bill Ashe promotes safe water in this early photo. Jeff Bjorck's Cambodian friend now has safe water, hygiene, and sanitation.

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David Eubank rescues a little girl in the heat of the ISIS battle in Mosul. Bill Ashe in the early days fixes an orphanage's windmill hand pump.

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PURSUE A MISSION THAT WILL OUTLIVE YOU Another inspiring friend of mine, Bill Ashe, went to Heaven in 2016, and I miss him greatly. His commitment to the poor as an everyday act of worship was profound. Bill had a pump business as a young man, and as a new Christian, he struggled to see how something so mundane could serve as an avenue for worship. Then, in the 1960s, he encountered the plight of some rural poor orphans in Mexico with no safe water, and God gave him a vision for worship as a way of life: offering a cup of safe, cold water in Jesus’ name. He studied and learned the desperate facts that remain desperate today. Currently, 844 million people live without safe, clean water, 2.3 billion people do not have access to basic sanitation, and a child dies every 60 seconds due to a preventable waterborne illness. These statistics are actually a great improvement from when Bill began, but much still needs to be done. In response, Bill began by installing and repairing pumps out of the back of his station wagon. In 1977, he founded Lifewater International, a Christian development ministry focused on empowering the rural poor in

Connecting the music with the sermon is wonderful. Connecting the music and sermon with action is powerful.

Matthew 25:40

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remote places to obtain safe water, sanitation, and hygiene. Bill noted that one of the clearest impacts of the work was hearing mothers say, “The babies don’t die anymore.” Today, Lifewater’s tangible ministry continues to prompt questions among the beneficiaries, opening doors for sharing the gospel. Over the past 43 years, the lives of over two million children, women, and men around the globe have been changed. I have been privileged to serve on Lifewater’s board for 20 of those years as part of my own living out worship.6

WHAT IS YOUR MISSION? I believe worship leaders have a tremendous opportunity to call the Church, not only to Sunday praise and worship, but also to serve God every day with whatever gifts God has given them. Connecting the music with the sermon is wonderful. Connecting the music and sermon with action is powerful. I pray that you might consider how to ignite sparks of both wonder and power in those you serve, with worship that not only touches hearts in the pews but also motivates living sacrifices all week long.

J E F F

B J O R C K

Psychologist, researcher, Fuller Seminary professor, and pianist/composer, Jeff Bjorck has six piano albums on Pandora, Spotify, and all major streaming sites. Learn more at Purepiano.com.

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The Eubanks at home (Suzanne, Sahale, Karen, David, Peter, and friends). Jeff Bjorck with Bill Ashe in 2015.

Jeff Bjorck congratulates a Cambodian couple for installing their own toilet. Free Burma Ranger medics help a young war victim.

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higher learning G U I D E

he context of leading worship in a congregational setting is multifaceted and filled with historical and biblical significance. Beyond that, there are people involved: people coming from all walks of life with every imaginable concern and distinctive worldview. And worship is where these things are acknowledged and woven together to create a multi-harmonious sound of sung prayer and worship to the One God who can unite all hearts. Certainly, leading this beautiful and complex concert of voices requires skill. The following pages are here to help you discover your next step in worship leadership proficiency and theological development. Here you will find some of the top schools availableÂâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; an opportunity to make your growth a priority to effect lasting change in your worshiping community.

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30 Anthem School of Worship San Jose, California 32 Cedarville University Cedarville, Ohio 34 Dallas Baptist University Dallas, Texas 36 The Robert E. Webber Institute for Worship Studies Jacksonville, Florida 38 Trevecca Nazarene University Nashville, Tennessee 40 University of Northwestern St. Paul St. Paul, Minnesota

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LOCATION | SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA

WE ARE ANTHEM exists to fill the earth with hallelujahs

(Ps 72:19). We want to bring God glory as we connect, inspire, and equip worship leaders and teams all around the Bay Area, Ca. and beyond. We do this through our school, our conference, and our music. Our school of worship is the heart of what we do, as our legacy will only be as strong as the individuals we invest most deeply in. Our next conference is scheduled for February 25-27, 2021, and our first single was released in March. Look for new monthly singles written by Anthem artists! ANTHEM SCHOOL OF WORSHIP

Anthem School Of Worship is an eight-month worship training school that exists to equip the next generation of worship leaders, musicians, and production teams to develop their unique talents for the Kingdom of God. Students have the opportunity to encounter world-class leaders and mentors to help develop their gifts, including nationally known guest speakers Jason Ingram, Mia Fieldes, Brian Doerksen, and others. Learning takes place both in the classroom and in a variety of practical, hands-on ministry opportunities. weareanthem.org/school

WHAT SETS YOUR SCHOOL APART FROM OTHERS IN THE WORSHIP CONTEXT?

Anthem School is the “trade school” of worship schools. You’ll learn HOW to be an effective leader and be given hands on opportunities to implement what you’re learning. If you want to take your next practical step in ministry, this is the school for you. We provide top shelf instruction and education at a fraction of the cost of most universities. We are connected with hundreds of churches and can help you get placed in a worship leading job if desired. We develop students holistically by creating environments in which they can grow in their love for Jesus, develop leadership skills, and learn the art of worship leadership. Anthem students can stay involved with their local church or, if coming from out of town, can serve with a large multi-campus church called WestGate. Anthem School also has partnership programs with William Jessup University and Western Seminary for those wanting to continue their education at a discount. Anthem's part time schedule and NEW online cohort make worship training accessible and realistic for those whose lives are already quite busy. Anthem students get access to the Anthem Worship Conference as well as have the opportunity to learn how to write and record their own songs.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT WWW.ANTHEMSCHOOL.COM PHONE | EMAIL 408.268.1676 | JFOX@ANTHEMSCHOOL.COM

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G L A N C E

LOCATION | CEDARVILLE, OHIO

STUDENT POPULATION | 3,400

DEADLINES | ROLLING ENROLLMENT

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

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The purpose statement of the Worship Program at Cedarville University is “Equipping Worshipers to Serve,” and that informs everything that we do. We offer a Bachelor of Arts in worship degree is designed to help prepare students who are interested in careers in worship leadership and related fields. All students must take courses in music, theology, and worship-related fields such as theatre, electronic media, or youth ministry. Elective hours can be used to complete minors or to double major. Students pursuing this major must complete the general education core. 1. MUSICAL EMPHASIS

We value a core musical background for all worship students. We value contemporary music as the voice of our culture and will equip students to be musically and methodologically relevant in the "real world." Students study contemporary music theory and will study contemporary music in the private studio. 2. THEOLOGICAL FOUNDATION

We value a strong theological foundation, grounded in biblical truth for all worship students. The Bible minor and required Bible classes in the field of worship will emphasize a biblical foundation for worship ministry. 3. INTERDISCIPLINARY NATURE

We value interdisciplinary study in fields related to worship ministry. We value each student developing God-given talents and interests, resulting in an individualized degree tailored for each student.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT CEDARVILLE.EDU/WORSHIP PHONE | EMAIL 937.766.7728 | MUSICANDWORSHIP@CEDARVILLE.EDU

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Our school is known for producing quality graduates who love Jesus and are well-equipped to serve the church and parachurch organizations. Our graduates are in high demand as many pastors and leaders know our program and the quality of our graduates. Our graduate placement rate is effectively 100 percent for students wanting to go into worship ministry and who are willing to relocate to where the open positions are. Scholarships are available for worship students, and paid opportunities to represent the school on our traveling teams are available. In addition, our students often find ministry locations where they can work and build their resume while they are students.

Worship PREPARE TO LEAD

Cedarville University is equipping worship leaders who are both grounded in the truth of Scripture and relevant to the needs of the church and culture they serve.  Interdisciplinary education in music, worship, and theology  Low student-teacher ratios

 Practical experiences and internships  Electives in fields such as electronic media, youth ministry, and missions

 Training in contemporary voice, guitar, and piano Cedarville, Ohio | 1-800-CEDARVILLE (233-2784) | cedarville.edu/worship VO L . 29, N O. 2 | W O R S H I P L E A D E R .C O M | W O R S H I P L E A D E R

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LOCATION | DALLAS, TEXAS

WHY ATTEND?

The Graduate School of Ministry at DBU equips

individuals who sense God’s calling to ministry through a variety of programs that provide relevant and practical training for ministry in the 21st century. Our faculty are active practitioners in their churches and ministry organizations so their insight in the classroom addresses the leading issues you will face as students live out their calling. Through advanced online and in-person courses, students are able to be equipped anywhere and at any time! WHY SHOULD A WORSHIP LEADER CONTINUE LEARNING?

Scripture calls believers to be active learners and disciples, and at DBU the idea of lifelong learning is inherent in the curriculum. Worship leaders need both skills and training to be effective in their ministry, so continued learning is key to being well-prepared.

WHAT SETS YOUR SCHOOL APART FROM OTHERS IN THE WORSHIP CONTEXT?

In addition to the excellent online curriculum and

experienced faculty, DBU’s Graduate School of Ministry

programs are designed in efficient 36-hour degree plans with significant scholarship opportunities for students. The MA in Worship Studies combines in-depth worship theology with practical training through worship praxis courses in areas of worship leading, worship media, and worship song creation and implementation. Students also have the option to participate in travel study courses including songwriting in Nashville, Hillsong conference in Sydney, and an experiential trip to Israel.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT TREVECCA.EDU OR CALL UNDERGRADUATE | 615-248-1320 GRADUATE | 844-TNU-GRAD

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www.dbu.edu/MAWS

PREPARE FOR YOUR CALLING Maximize ministry impact through a masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in Worship Studies.

Master of Arts in Worship Studies Practical Application The courses combine strong worship theology with practical application. Nashville Trip

Travel Abroad The program offers travel study trips to Israel as well as opportunities with a worship focus to Nashville and Sydney.

Experienced Instructors Classes are led by experienced professors and leading practitioners/artists in the worship ministry.

3 EASY STEPS:

1 Explore the program at: www.dbu.edu/MAWS

Sydney Trip

Connect with your

Apply for FREE at:

VOAdmissions L . 29, N O. 2 Guide | W O Rat S H I P L E A D E R .C O M | W O R S H I P L E A D E R 31 www.dbu.edu/apply

www.dbu.edu/connect

G L A N C E APPLICATION DEADLINES | JUNE SESSION: APRIL 15TH JANUARY SESSION: NOVEMBER 15TH

2020 TUITION | MWS: $393/CREDIT HOUR DWS: $437/CREDIT HOUR

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LOCATION | JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Robert E. Webber Institute for Worship Studies (IWS) is the only accredited school dedicated to the highest quality graduate education in the biblical foundations, theological reflections, historical development, cultural analysis and missional focus of Christian worship. Church leaders from multiple denominations take academically grounded, highly applicable courses rooted in the biblical narrative, drawing on the rich treasures of Christian history, and committed to glorifying God in multiple cultural contexts. IWS DISTINCTIVES

A primary key to reading the entire Biblical narrative is this: God is calling His creation to right worship. Right worship leads to the rightly ordered life, family, Church, community and culture. Right worship stands at the very core of the Christian faith. IWS has a decidedly Christ-centered, ancient-future theological posture, delivered in a low-residency educational approach focused on building an intentional learning community. Each course has a strong applied emphasis, so students make a direct impact on their ministries. IWS offers two award-winning graduate degree programs: Master of Worship Studies and Doctor of Worship Studies. Studying with 32 W O R S H I P L E A D E R | W O R S H I P L E A D E R .C O M | VO L . 29, N O. 2

a superior faculty of distinguished scholars, students come from around the country and across the globe. The IWS community impacts tens of millions of people each week in Christian worship renewal. The IWS low-residency educational approach is designed to fit the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s schedule and budget. The result is an applicable and stimulating education that prepares Christians intellectually and spiritually to participate in the worldwide renewal of the Church through God-honoring worship. Masters and Doctoral one-week intensive class cohorts start twice each year in the first week of January (November 15 application deadline) or second week of June (April 15 application deadline). Financial aid programs are available. GI Bill and Tuition Assistance benefits are available for qualified military personnel.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT IWS.EDU EMAIL ADMISSIONS@IWS.EDU PHONE 1.800.282.2977

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G L A N C E

LOCATION | NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

STUDENT POPULATION | 3,927

WHY ATTEND?

T R E V E C C A

N A Z A R E N E

U N I V E R S I T Y

Trevecca is a Christian university in the heart of Nashville, TN—Music City. Trevecca is an excellent choice for music students who want to live in the city known world-wide as a center for the Recording and Music Publishing industries. In this exciting environment, Trevecca offers multiple programs designed to equip students to fulfill God’s call upon their lives. Whether you are interested in teaching music, leading worship, working in the music industry or anything in between, Trevecca has a program to help you develop your talents and reach your goal. A worship leader provides opportunities for others to come before the Lord. Continued learning in music studies, a theology of worship, and practices will help equip the worship leader to lead others to God. At Trevecca, one of emphases is to help you learn to learn, so that once you graduate you can continue to grow in all of these areas. Our location in Nashville allows our students access to some of the best professors and teachers in the country. Our programs also include a balance of learning in the three main areas that students need to be successful in their careers as worship leaders; knowledge (theological, musical, leadership, etc…), skill (vocal, arranging, leading, etc…), and valuing (understanding how to prioritize values and time in your life). The professors at Trevecca are interested in mentoring you, not just teaching or advising you.

WATC H

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT TREVECCA.EDU/MWL OR CALL UNDERGRADUATE | 615-248-1320 GRADUATE | 844-TNU-GRAD

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V I D E O

Master's in Worship and Leadership Master of Arts in Worship & Leadership 100% Online trevecca.edu/MWL

Bachelor Degree Options

Associate Degree Options

Worship | Worship and Church Ministry Commercial Music | Music Education Theory and Composition Music Performance

Recording Technology Songwriting | Music

For more information: www.trevecca.edu/music | 615.248.1536 | @TreveccaMusic

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G L A N C E

LOCATION | ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

DEADLINES | ROLLING ENROLLMENT

PAU L

WHY ATTEND? We worship an unchanging God in an ever-changing world! Studying the Word keeps a worship leader grounded in truth. UNW students who enroll as freshmen complete 30 credits of Bible courses as part of their core curriculum, making them eligible for a second major in Bible.

S T. N O R T H W E S T E R N O F U N I V E R S I T Y

STUDENT POPULATION | 1,600+

WHAT SETS YOUR SCHOOL APART? PROGRAM OVERVIEW University of Northwestern—St. Paul is a Christian university in Minnesota providing students an invaluable integration of faith and education. Nestled among the trees and surrounded by a mile of lakeshore, our 107-acre campus features both historic architecture and newer buildings such as the Billy Graham Community Life Commons and renovated Totino Fine Arts Center. All five of our music degrees hold National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) accreditation. Northwestern Media, a ministry of the University, operates more than 20 Christian radio stations and reaches over one million listeners.

NEW Double Major: Pair a Music Ministry Major with a Ministry Major to more effectively enter ministry and lead worship for about the same time and credits as a single major in other areas. Under the guidance of faculty and experienced worship pastors, students complete meaningful internships in local churches. Music Ministry majors routinely receive job offers prior to graduation. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT CCU.EDU/MUSIC

Learn more at unwsp.edu/musicministry

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he decisions you make for your worship ministry as either a worship leader or pastor need to be connected to a focused mission, period. Why? Because there are about four hundred and twelve different missions that you could choose from and narrowing your focus on your decision will keep you from confusion and overwhelm as a leader. This decision may also lead you to some of the best ministry work that you will create with each coming year. Many of the ministry workers that I meet each month are struggling to find that one mission—translated, the “right” mission. Well, I’ve got news for you that will either frustrate you or free you up. Apart from the command of Jesus to “go and make disciples of every nation,” the “right” mission doesn’t exist, only the one that you and your ministry colleagues will choose. So, then, how do we choose that focused mission and how do we put it into practice? Here are three practical ways to connect worship with mission.

L E R N E R

ALIGN WITH THE VISION OF THE HOUSE If you currently serve in any leadership role within your worship ministry, aligning yourself with the vision of the house is the first place to begin. It is also the first place to poke and take a look at if you find yourself frustrated in your role. Ask yourself if you are aligned with the main vision of the church where you serve or are employed. The vision of the house is a phrase that I created to put some new language to the use of the traditional terms of mission, vision, and values. What is your church trying to accomplish? What is written on the walls in the building where you worship to communicate what the church community is all about? It is imperative that you know this as a leader within your church community. If you are unaware of what the main vision of the house is, you could be making decisions and setting a course for your ministry year that is more connected to who you are as VO L . 29, N O. 2 | W O R S H I P L E A D E R .C O M | W O R S H I P L E A D E R

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…there are about four hundred and twelve different missions that you could choose from and narrowing your focus on your decision will keep you from confusion and overwhelm as a leader.

a person than what is best for the greater good of the community of people whom you serve. In my work with organizations who are moving from a monoculture to multicultural, this conversation continues to come up, particularly from worship leaders who would like to see their churches more ethnically diverse in its people and more expressively diverse in its worship sound. Worship leaders will often ask me something like, “How do I get my senior leadership to see the vision for multicultural ministry?” My reaction usually is, “You can’t.” The reason this is so hard or even nearly impossible in some communities is because that the worship leader’s desire is not in alignment with the vision of the house. For example, if the vision of the house for a particular church involved “bringing others to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ through relevant teaching,” your desire in your role as worship leader to start singing in Spanish or praying in Korean in your English-speaking services may not go over so well. Why? Because it may not be aligned with the vision of the house. If the vision of the house was “to bring an ethnically diverse group of people to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ through relevant teaching,” well then you may

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have a fighting chance, because in that scenario it would make sense to begin singing in Spanish. Similarly, if you are ready to empower a fleet of powerful female worship leaders, but your church holds a limiting view on women and their role in leadership, you will be out of alignment. You will be frustrated. You will wonder why you can’t get anywhere with your mission in the ministry. It all has to do with alignment. Align yourself and your ministry with the vision of the house and this will bring you a sense of peace as you connect worship to mission.

CREATE, DON’T COPY Many of us in the Church are participating in identity theft. We are stealing the identities of worship ministries from other churches and from worship leaders in the Christian music industry. Don’t believe me? Imagine you and I taking a field trip around the country, visiting many cities and towns in the USA, and deciding to visit three different churches all on the same street. My guess is that we could go to all three of those churches and hear the same four songs during worship (the “hot” ones—whatever that means), experience the same

general program: songs, announcements, offering, pre-message video, fifty-minute lecture or sermon, and a short dismissal prayer. There is a good chance that there will be some sort of small worship team who keep their eyes closed during the whole worship set and a preacher who is either in a suit, a pair of khakis, or a leather jacket. I am pointing this out to make you giggle a little, but isn’t it true? How were our churches stamped with this same identity? Where did it come from? Who started it? Create, don’t copy. Write your own songs. Develop your own children’s curriculum. Create a new way to connect and disciple your student ministry. Involve the people sixty-five and older. Intentionally include people with disabilities on your platform. If you want to connect worship and mission, be on a mission to create instead of copy. Anything that comes from the Christian business industry will only give you a small idea of what is possible within our local churches. The industry is not connected to your local church’s mission, you are. Decide today what your mission will be and then take your permission back and get to creating new things that will rise out of your local community. Let’s stop stealing identities.

N I K K I L E R N E R VOCALIST

STUDY YOUR MISSION EACH WEEK Once you have aligned your mission with that of the vision of the house and then decide what needs to be created as a result of that alignment, then schedule some time on your calendar each week to study and get familiar with that mission. Make it a priority each week—if only for twenty minutes—to attempt to master as many aspects of that mission as possible. What can you learn about your mission? What books or podcasts are available to fill you with a focus around that mission? What needs to be communicated to your ministry to help them focus on that mission? Make connecting worship with mission a weekly focus. It is possible to spend months attempting to nail down the perfect mission. We might spend so much time trying to find the “right” one that we may end up doing nothing at all. Pick one. Pick what is good, true, noble, trustworthy, and beautiful and do that. Then, filter all of your worship decisions around that beautiful mission.

Nikki Lerner is a cultural coach, teacher, and gifted vocalist with over 20 years as a practitioner of multicultural worship leadership in the local church. Along with three recording projects, Nikki is also the co-author of the book Worship Together: In Your Church As In Heaven. Nikkilerner.com

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LE AR N

M O R E

LEADERSHIP M I S S I O N A L

WO R S H I P

An Anchor in Uncharted Waters WO R S H I P

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e are in uncharted waters; that means there is no map. Or if there is, we’ve sailed right over its edge. Today millions of people have been diagnosed with a “novel coronavirus.” And tomorrow? We can’t know the number…, which is projected to increase exponentially in the coming months. This is indeed an unprecedented moment. You and I have never been here before. Even as I sit at my writing desk staring out the window in our sunny harbor city Sydney, I can hear helicopters hovering over the river. It seems like every hour we’re updated with more information on the state of the world, which is in the grip of a pandemic. So it’s only human to feel a range of unexpected emotions.

TA N YA

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R I C H E S

We should certainly pray for ourselves and for our loved ones’ safety. But if our heroes of the faith found themselves in situations they would rather not experience, can we really promise our congregations safety?

A WORSHIPFUL RESPONSE? A question some friends have asked is, how should worship leaders be speaking about world events on their live streams? Some of us are more focused on what is scriptural, others of us on what is faith-filled. Both of these things are important. I like to think about this not as a tension but as compatible commitments—remaining true to Christian history, and also leading the church into its preferred future. But I would like to encourage worship leaders to avoid certain language and framing as you plan your online worship moments and events. There’s a clear temptation to introduce magical thinking. We can unthinkingly reassure people, “if we worship God in THIS way, we will be safe.” These assurances are appealing because we want to help people with their anxieties and fears. We want to tell them they are going to be fine. But Christianity has never been a magical religion. Our actions can’t be used to control the outcome. We are promised many things, but we certainly aren’t promised safety. Reading the Bible, we can see various unexpected events in the stories of many of the biblical characters, e.g., Jonah, Ruth, Jeremiah, Daniel, and Paul. Their voices call out to us from the cloud of witnesses (Heb 12:1). They are a reminder of God’s presence in similar events, not always protection from them.

PAUSE AND CONSIDER We need quiet moments before God; time to pray and center our thoughts before we press “play” on the live stream. When we stop and reflect, what are worship songs for? The references to music in the biblical text hold some insights. For example, EPHESIANS 5 reads,

…be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

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LEADERSHIP Here we are commanded to sing and speak to each other using music, to remind ourselves of what we can and should give thanks for. We are offered an anchor even in troubled times. Similarly in COLOSSIANS it says:

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Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. This gives us a beautiful picture of a church that in all seasons, in all times and places, has the message of Christ in song in our hearts, and on our lips.

BLESSED ASSURANCE So even in this time of COVID-19, some things remain the same. Jesus is the anchor of our faith. We can look to him as our model. When Jesus was faced with the agony of the cross, he selflessly sacrificed for others, knowing God was not punishing him, but had the larger story in mind and under control. We can sing of God as Emmanuel present amongst us in our communities, no matter what we face. We can sing of eternal assurance, and of victory beyond the grave. Coming from the Pacific, it’s interesting to me how many songs use the metaphor of ocean storms. This surely draws on the passages in which God commands the winds and waves (Mk 4:39). But God also directs whales (Jon 1:17) and boats (Acts 28:31) that carry the people of God. A song which has played a particularly meaningful role at Hillsong Church is “Still.” Sung by Tulele Faletolu, the lyrics sing, When the oceans rise and thunders roar I will soar with you above the storm Father you are King above the flood I will be still and know You are God. What is this soaring, then? It is holding an absolutely unshakeable conviction that God loves us and is present with us. This is the message of Christ’s suffering and resurrection.

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St Augustine of Hippo said, Man’s maker was made man that He, Ruler of the stars, might nurse at His mother’s breast; that the Bread might hunger, the Fountain thirst, the Light sleep, the Way be tired on its journey; that Truth might be accused of false witnesses, the Teacher be beaten with whips, the Foundation be suspended on wood; that Strength might grow weak; that the Healer might be wounded; that Life might die. Sometimes we forget that this message must be proclaimed in its fullness.

REMIND THE CHURCH TO REMEMBER Yes, there is the resurrection coming. Yes, there is room in our theology for God to work via the miraculous and through science. We should believe and pray for these things. Still, the role of our worship song is to remind us of Jesus as the anchor for our souls, and the author and finisher of our faith. Sometimes when we’re in uncharted waters, it’s easy to be buffeted by the storms. The winds and waves may take a while to die down, but even in death we the Church will sing as the hymn writer Horatio Spafford proclaimed at the news of his four children’s passing: It is well, it is well with my soul! Worship songs are the way the people of God remember God’s action in the past, and remind each other of God’s presence and goodness today. This is how we will see the coming of God’s kingdom on earth, even as it is in heaven.

TA N YA

R I C H E S SENIOR LECTURER, MASTERS PROGRAM COORDINATOR AT HILLSONG COLLEGE Tanya co-leads the research pillar at The Centre for Disability Studies, an affiliate of the University of Sydney.

EXPAND YOU R

TE AM

From Admin to your Worship Team, post your job openings on the

JOB BOARD

VI E W

J O B

B OAR D

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LEADERSHIP TA B L E

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WHAT IS BEST IN LIFE

recent topic of conversation in worship leader circles has been revolving around the question, “What is your biggest challenge as a worship leader?”

REALITY REFORMATION As those whose personal ministry work largely revolves around helping our churches grow their worship ministries in skill, training, and equipping as well as spiritually, emotionally, and numerically, our biggest challenge often revolves around shifting a worship culture at a church. Often this is because of an unhealthy attitude of "meh, that’s good enough" (see the attitude in Mal 1:6-14) and "I'll serve only at my convenience or pleasure" (see the attitude in Isa 14:13-14). The goal is to grow and encourage a culture that embraces the attitudes of "I will not give the Lord my God a sacrifice that cost me nothing" (2 Sam 24:24), and "we work at whatever we do with all our heart" (Col 3:23). Making an attitude shift will invariably result in sifting uncalled people out and bringing called people in to serve in ministry. The next biggest challenge is helping people whose lives are already packed to the gills with too much activity, to simplify and reprioritize so that they actually value and invest in the gift they will give to the Lord and share with His people. 48 W O R S H I P L E A D E R | W O R S H I P L E A D E R .C O M | VO L . 29, N O. 2

Part of that process is providing an atmosphere where they can discover the wisdom of choosing the things that are best for them over the good. Perhaps eliminating a lot of good to focus on best. And the best is always aligned with God’s mission for our lives: to be disciples who make disciples, following and obeying Jesus.

A SOURCE FOR RESOURCES Then there’s the challenge of guiding these called people to the best resources to help them develop their gifts so that they become trained and skilled for the Lord. It could be directing them to YouTube tutorials or financially accessible gear and equipment, or creating content ourselves that support our team members. You can schedule workshops and training sessions to help members identify and learn parts and grow in their craft, or take them to conferences and outside training opportunities. Growing together is augmented by carving out time to spend one on one with team members. All this so that we can be a part of serving the mission flowing from Jesus’ Great Commission to go in to all the world and make disciples, baptizing them, teaching them to obey all that He said. He promised He would be with us until the end. Through all of this we are called to worship Him in every

It’s so much better to approach the throne of grace boldly and yet humbly, asking the Lord to work in us, through us, and around us, rather than in spite of us.

aspect of our lives, as living sacrifices. Every day. All day. In everything we do. Glorifying God with a heart of thanksgiving (1 Cor 10:31; Col 3:17).

AT THE HEART OF MISSION, DISCIPLESHIP Make no mistake, our work of worship as described by the Greek word latreia used in Romans 12:1—our active service for the sake of others—is completely missional. As Paul Baloche has reminded me, our role as worship leaders is all about others: ministering to God in song, and helping others worship Him. And yet, it’s still about us. Because if we’re not disciples first, following Jesus closely, we cannot lead people where we have not been. If we desire to lead people into closeness with Jesus, we begin with our own spiritual development as disciples. We seek to be learners (2 Tim 2:15) who change for the better and grow emotionally, spiritually, in knowledge of the Lord by His grace and Spirit, through prayer, fellowship, and the Word. It’s so much better to approach the throne of grace boldly and yet humbly, asking the Lord to work in us, through us, and around us, rather than in spite of us. Be blessed as you serve God and others through your mission of worship ministry.

B R E N DA N

P R O U T

Brendan Prout is a husband, dad, pastor and worship leader in San Diego, CA. He loves training and equipping others to do the work of ministry they are called to, all things geeky, good food, cars, coffee, and not driving off cliffs anymore.

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LEADERSHIP DY N A M I C S T E A M

Our worship teams need to be shepherded, especially during this season. Beyond content creation, we need connection.

5 TIPS FOR TEAMWORK D U R I N G

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PA N D E M I C

e celebrated Easter across America with virtual choirs, online chat rooms, and streaming sermons. The speed at which our worship teams pivoted whiplashed us into territory only once thought theoretical or unproven. But we had to do it. And, we all get the picture that our worship teams and ministry process will never be the same again. Our worship teams need to be shepherded, especially during this season. Beyond content creation, we need connection. There are a lot of innovative and practical pointers for putting online services together. What I hope to do here is address how we care for each other, equip our teams, and build community during a historically disruptive event. How do we stay connected and even grow?Â

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CAST A VISION FOR TODAY AND THE FUTURE.

Help your team accept that "normal' will likely never return. We must find a way to paint a picture of how God is using us at this moment and how this will extend to our mission going forward. Putting services online—even if you have done so before—now has greater importance today, as well as in the future. REINFORCING VALUE | INSPIRE: God is using your team today and will in the future—even if it looks different.

OVER COMMUNICATE UNTIL IT EXHAUSTS YOU.

None of us realized how taxing online team Zoom meetings would be. Many of us have small children at home … and multiple distractions. As leaders, our own emotions about being in a pandemic may overcome us. It is this compounded and collective grief—a cocktail of fast change and danger—that lies underneath the surface for us all. Don't give up. Don't lose heart. But communicate. REINFORCING VALUE | INFORM: We are all in this together, and keeping your people in the loop makes them feel a part of the team.

TALK ABOUT WHAT PEOPLE FEEL, NOT JUST THE TASK AT HAND.

We want efficient interactions, but we may be missing an opportunity for empathy. Communication, as we mentioned, itself takes work. Listening requires even greater effort. Knowing your people better will help them work better. How are your people feeling? Are they praying for each other? What team members have physical needs for us to rally around? REINFORCING VALUE | INQUIRE: People matter more than what they do for us, and we need to help them know this.

CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR CONNECTION AND ACTIVITY.

Some people on your team may have hats or roles that at the moment are put on the shelf. For instance, although not impossible, the complexity of incorporating a choir individually from their homes or corporately with social distancing is likely to leave many vocalists out of service. What role can these volunteers play to stay a part of the community of worship leaders? How can we invite people who are less connected to a small group to engage? Collaborate with your team as they may come up with the best ideas. REINFORCING VALUE | INCLUDE: A community is a family where everyone is a hero, even those in support roles.

PLAN FOR THE FUTURE WHILE ADMITTING TO UNCERTAINTY.

We are all called as leaders to equip. Your team, no matter what hat each person wears, will appreciate you wearing the hat of shepherd right now. While our polish and talent still matter, what will last beyond the other side of this pandemic is how we treat and love our worship team.

So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. EPH 4:11-13, NIV

BY R I C H

While we live in uncertainty about timing as to what will happen in a month, let alone six months, we can still move people forward. Try a Zoom night for prayer or gather people to learn about worship, teaching them scriptural insights as well as team-building. Investing in your team will help them see you value them. And it will remind everyone that our work continues. REINFORCING VALUE | INSTRUCT: Shepherding people includes teaching them.

K I R K PAT R I C K AUTHOR, MUSICIAN

Rich Kirkpatrick serves as Team Development Director at Friends Church, Yorba Linda, CA, authored The Six Hats of the Worship Leader and leads worship with A Beautiful Liturgy. You can find him at rkblog.com.

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MUSIC. 2 0 2 0 LO S T

S O N G

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S EL EC T I O N S

DOWNLOAD ALL SONG RESOURCES FOR FREE!

2020 SELECTIONS

Let This House Be Filled With Hallelujahs We Are Anthem WRITTEN BY JOSH FOX AND PAUL BALOCHE

Forever Amen The Union Chattanooga WRITTEN BY BENJAMIN SHAFER, DRAKEFORD LANIER AND MATTHEW MACAULAY

Worthy Are You Ascent Music WRITTEN BY GEORGE ROMANACCE, KEVIN WINEBARGER, AND DAVID FOURNIER

At the center is Jesus Christ our Lord.

Give Thanks Asaph WRITTEN BY ASAPH

Take Heart Sarah Kroger 2020

WRITTEN BY SARAH KROGER

Higher Century Worship

"LET THIS HOUSE BE FILLED WITH HALLELUJAHS"

WRITTEN BY DANIEL ASHER & CENTURY WORSHIP

BY WE ARE ANTHEM

Still You Are Good Calvary Music WRITTEN BY JENNIE MAHOOD

Hope Has A Name River Valley Worship WRITTEN BY AARON JOHNSON, BENJAMIN CRUSE, EVAN JOHN, RYAN WILLIAMS

Abide With Me Sara Groves WRITTEN BY HENRY FRANCIS LYTE, JUSTIN SMITH

He Wears A Crown Bryan McCleery WRITTEN BY BRYAN MCCLEERY, JOSH LAVENDER

My Prayer Frankie and Jen Krasinski WRITTEN BY FRANKIE KRASINSKI, JEN KRASINSKI

This song was selected for Song Discovery before the upheaval caused by the pandemic, but today I find myself struck by a literal interpretation of the lyrics of the chorus. “Let this house be filled with hallelujahs.” Many of us are currently experiencing life in a new way, forced into social isolation and loneliness. In this time, let us remember that the Church is not contained by walls, borders, or quarantines. Let us be encouraged to trust and be united by this prayer.

Stay Close Awaken Worship Collective

2019

WRITTEN BY JOSH LAVENDER AND TAYLOR WILDING

W R I T T E N BY G R E G L A FO L L E T T E

DOWNLOAD NOW

SONG DISCOVERY DIRECTOR OF CURATION

Greg is a musician and producer in Nashville,TN. He is the resident artist at a local church plant, Grace Story Church, and serves as their director of arts and liturgy.

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MISSIONAL WORSHIP

MUSIC P R AY E R S M I S S I N G & L O S T

ark Labberton, president of Fuller Theological Seminary, calls worship a “dangerous act” because it has the ability to shock us out of our self-centered autopilot and wake us up to God’s purposes in the world. Worship really can turn our lives upside down, or better yet, worship turns our lives outward.

TRANSFORMING VISION Worship (both preached and sung) redirects our eyes toward God and his beautiful vision of justice and peace on earth. At the end of a church gathering there is often a benediction—a blessing and a charge given to God’s people to send us back into the world to be salt and light. We go to live out the ways of Jesus in workplaces, homes, neighborhoods, and wherever we are. To be blessed with the reminder of God’s presence and charged to boldly take the gospel out of the church building is a dangerous and wonderful thing. It isn’t dangerous because it’s an act of force or human strength. It’s dangerous because it has the potential to give us a clear perspective of God’s goodness and provision, and even a snapshot of God’s love can birth drastic faith and trust.

“SHOULDS” WON’T CONQUER FEAR

Worship is the place of relationship where trust and boldness are formed.

J O S H

L AV E N D E R WORSHIP DIRECTOR, TRINITY CHURCH INDIANAPOLIS Josh is the co-founder of Wesleyan Worship Project and Awaken Worship Collective. He is a composer, artist, author and Song Discovery Alum

Post your thoughts on prayers that are lost and missing on our discussion board

JOIN THE DISCUSSION

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This makes me think of the kids on the playground who are nervous to play too far from their mom or dad. Their security and ability to be bold and courageous depends on knowing their parent is close by and available to step in and help when needed. You could tell a child to just be brave and adventurous, but trust doesn’t come by simply knowing what we should do. Trust is built over time and grounded in seeing availability and love over and over again.

ROOTED RELATIONSHIP It’s really no different with us. We are the kids on the playground who are often nervous to venture too far. We can still be anxious and insecure when we lose sight of our parent. But what if we had the opportunity to build our boldness, to create courage by meeting the love and availability of our parent? What if consistent interactions with a faithful Father builds our trust and security and produces courage and strong dependence in us? Worship is the place of relationship where trust and boldness are formed. I invite worship songwriters to meditate on the connection between God’s love and reliability, and his children’s courage and confidence. I think there is room for new “sending songs” that bless God’s people with a love that can cast out fear and enable us to bring compassion, justice, and peace on earth! What worship songs can you think of that root worshipers in God’s love and presence and invite them to live our outwardfocused, missional call? Let us know on the Worship Leader Forum: Lost & Missing Prayers.

Write

FO R WORS HIP LEA D ER. MI N E

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M A S T E R C L A S S //

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MUSIC A N S W E R E D Q U E S T I O N S

he most effective leaders are those who commit to lifelong learning. They seize opportunities to gather new experiences, and they ask good questions. More specifically, they ask the right people good questions. The heart of Worship Leader is to help you become the most effective leader you can be by providing resources from and access to the right people—seasoned leaders who have traversed roads you may be on at this very moment. You’d be hard-pressed to find a more seasoned, informed, and experienced leader than Matt Redman. With 16 albums and eight books to his credit, not to mention iconic songs like "10,000 Reasons" and "The Heart of Worship," and his most recent release, Let There Be Wonder, Matt has helped craft the era of modern worship music and ministry. Accolades aside, Matt possesses a wealth of knowledge and insight, which is why Worship Leader is thrilled to partner with him by launching an interactive Q&A column to be featured inside the magazine and on WorshipLeader.com. Readers are encouraged to send their questions on anything about worship. From musical to technical to spiritual topics, Matt is ready and waiting to offer you his expertise and perspective. Stay tuned to worshipleader.com for more information and details of question submission. In the meantime, check out the video below from Matt to you. You’ve got good questions. He’s got answers!

with Matt Redman

WATC H

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What truth needs to be written and sung throughout churches at this point of time in history?

uch a great question, and I’m sure many others are wondering a similar thing. I think Rebekkah you submitted your question before the whole Covid-19 situation was quite so alarming—so I think more than ever now it’s a relevant thing for us to ask.

FROM REBEKKAH FE'AO

REMEMBER TO ASK

Australia

You’ve got questions. He’s got answers. ASK MATT

He’s one of the most well-known and respected songwriters and worship leaders in the world. And now, Matt Redman is sharing his hard-won wisdom with you! Read below as Matt helps tackle the intricacies of compelling song-writing and shares insight on maximizing your effectiveness as a leader within smaller contexts.

I often like to ask Church leaders I respect, “What themes are we not singing that we should be singing about?” I remember sending out letters to dozens of leaders about a decade

earth. In the simple and yet not shallow words of the classic old song, He truly does have “the whole world in His hands.”

SPEAK TO THE CULTURE There’s a call for worship leaders—and our worship songs—to be prophetic. By that I mean we are called to bring words into the arena of worship that speak powerfully into the current moment…and reveal Jesus. I‘ve heard it said it is almost like the role of the bard in culture a few hundred years ago, where they would sing

There’s a call for worship leaders—and our worship songs—to be prophetic. ago, asking this… And the most prominent theme that came back was that we were undersinging the theme of the Trinitarian nature of God in our current worship songs. They asked for more songs that affirmed and celebrated that we worship One God, who is Father, Son and Holy Spirit. More recently, I asked my 84-year-old evangelist friend (and hero) Luis Palau the same question. And he urged me— and others—to think about pointing to the fact Christ will return in our songs. (Incidentally, I didn’t manage a whole song on this theme yet, but the new album Let There Be Wonder contains three songs that at least include this theme a little.)

into the moment, reflecting what was going on around them in the world, or in their community. Their songs were not divorced from the realities people faced in their everyday lives. Charles Wesley would do this. On one occasion, after a minor earthquake, he wrote no less than 17 hymns, all around the theme of the eternal, unshakable, unchangeable nature of God, and the frail, temporary, shakable nature of the world in which we live. The good news is, as worshipers of Jesus, we have a remedy and a truth for every circumstance in life. No matter what is happening in this world, in Christ we always have a powerful, important and relevant truth to respond with.

NOW’S NECESSARY TRUTH

CERTAIN HOPE

But back to the current times we’re living in, and the unprecedented moment with the Covid-19 situation, I would think it compels us to sing very definitely about some very specific themes. There is so much uncertainty in the air, so it’s a good moment to sing of Christ as the solid rock and our firm foundation. There is fear in many people’s hearts, so it’s a great moment to sing about the peace of God, which passes all of our human understanding. There is a lot of anxiety about where this will all lead, so it’s a good moment to be reminded of the sovereignty of God over our lives, and indeed over the whole

In these times, it seems that “anything that can be shaken will be shaken” and then, in the word of Hebrews 12:27, “the unshakable will remain.” So many of our usual comforts and systems and ways of life are being shaken up, and we are left looking for that which is steadfast, unshakable, durable and certain. In these days, let’s be looking for, and writing, songs that lead us to this comforting and emboldening place of hope in Christ.

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T HE

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MEREDITH ANDREWS LI S TE N

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From her early days of playing the tambourine in youth band to now leading worship for hundreds and thousandsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and hundreds of thousands digitallyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; Meredith Andrews has learned a lot of valuable lessons along the way. Today she shares her tips for how to define success in ministry, how to know what to say in between songs, as well as how to keep a healthy ministry/family balance. Seasoned advice from someone who has been there and bought the T-shirt.

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Zach Williams The Worship Leader

EPISODE 5

Marriage in Ministry, Music Production, and Improving Your Voice with Keith and Tasha

EPISODE 4

Travis Greene on Leading Worship and Being Multicultural

EPISODE 3

Pat Barrett on Being Scripted vs. Unscripted and Being a Good Good Father

EPISODE 2

Matt Maher, The Creative Canadian Charismatic Catholic

EPISODE 1

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SO N G

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TECH + GEAR S P E A K I N G T E C H N I C A L LY

Technically Speakingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; A

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Kent Morris lends his insight to uncover and evaluate the latest technological products and developments you need to know.

K E N T M O R R I S 40-year veteran of the AVL arena driven by passion for excellence tempered by the knowledge digital is a temporary state.

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Leading with Streaming.

hurches have always sought better ways to engage the community beyond the walls of the sanctuary. Whether through outreach ministries handing out food in a city park or providing needed yardwork for elderly neighbors, the local church is there to aid and assist by putting legs to the message. Now, in light of the current situation, a new challenge to conducting ministry has arisen. However, technology has developed a reliable, cost-effective solution in the form of live streaming and it is tailor-made for churches who want to reach their congregations and the community at large. Live streaming, as its name implies, takes a video and audio feed of an event and sends it over the Internet in real-time where it is accessible to viewers. In contrast, a broadcast ministry

first step is to evaluate what the camera will see. If the stage is cluttered, the video will be cluttered as well. Start by cleaning and organizing the platform area. Reroute cables out of sight, put away unused instruments and stands and remove dust and trash from the stage. Next, consider the lighting since it will directly affect the viewer. While the human eye compensates for tone and color, the camera does not, so any mis-match will be clearly evident on the stream. Look at ways to smooth the light level across the width of the platform, including moving and re-aiming lights, changing out lamps in non-LED fixtures and purchasing an inexpensive ($80) light meter. Once the stage is evenly illuminated, it is time to consider cameras. A web-cam is technically functional, but not appropriate for church environments where the distance between the camera and stage is considerable. A better option is a compact video camera, much like families used to take on vacation, but with the latest technology. These cameras are quite capable of delivering excellent streaming results. One example is the Panasonic HC-V770 ($449) with a 20X zoom lens, meaning it can be placed in the tech booth and still capture tight shots on the stage. This camera also has the required HDMI output, image

Panasonic HC-V770 COST

captures a worship service with multiple high-grade cameras and later combines these discreet images and multi-channel audio via a post-production suite into a finished project, much like a TV show production. While broadcast takes considerable time, money and TV slots, live streaming it accessible and available to practically anyone with a smartphone. However, production values still matter and just because something can be streamed doesn’t mean people will watch it. Let’s look at some ways to engage and improve the viewer’s experience with an eye toward cost-effective solutions. While it is tempting to simply lean an iPhone against a seat back and call it a day, a little foresight will go a long way toward making a live stream enjoyable and compelling. The

$ 4 49

stabilization and ability to function in HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode to present the best possible image. A good camera is only as stable as its platform and when shooting from 60’ back, any small movement will be multiplied exponentially, making a high-quality tripod a necessity. Budget about $150 for a decent tripod with a fluid head which makes panning smooth and elegant. A one-camera shoot is acceptable for ministries just starting out, but that one static shot gets old rather quickly. As soon as funds allow, add a second camera, preferably the same model as the first to maintain consistency. With two cameras, the options expand greatly. Camera one can open the scene with a wide establishment shot while camera two is ready with a close-up VO L . 29, N O. 2 | W O R S H I P L E A D E R .C O M | W O R S H I P L E A D E R

TECH + GEAR of the worship leader as the first song begins. While camera two is tight, camera one can reset to a group shot of the praise team and, once the switch is made, camera one can move over to capture the keyboardist. With this back and forth process, two cameras can look like four when switched correctly. Speaking of switching, one is needed to take in the various

T E C H N I C A L LY

S P E A K I N G

After a few Sundays, live streaming will become as natural as the service in the room.

of the room mix and tailored to the stream needs. Typically, a stream audio mix will have lower vocals, more rhythm and some audience response added to it to balance the mix properly for viewers at home. Once all the pieces are in place, a streaming service is necessary to take the signal and deliver it to the viewers. Ministries

Roland VR1-HD COST

signals and route them to an output. Rolandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s VR1-HD ($995) is a good example of a low-cost four-input switcher with all the features needed to combine, process and output HD video in a simple-to-use format. Roland also offers a bundle package with the VR1-HD and a web-streaming video capture device for $1195. The HDMI to USB 3.0 device is vital as it allows direct connection from the switcher to a computer for uploading to the web. A popular stand-alone video encoder is the BMD Ultra Studio Mini Recorder ($150) which adheres to the Open Broadcast Software (OBS) format. Video is only one-half the streaming equation since audio is equally as vital to success. One low-cost way to deliver clear audio to a stream is to dedicate a post-fade (FX) send on the church mixing console to handling audio for video. If the main mixer outputs are sent to streaming, the result is a mix minus the room as it reflects what is missing in the room experience. With an aux send, the stream mix can be built independently

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just starting out can use YouTube Live or Facebook Live to get a feel for the medium, but will want to upgrade to a paid service as soon as possible. Free services tend to have unwanted ads which can be inappropriate and their uptime is often compromised. A dedicated premium service will have tech support, free recording, no ads and reliable delivery, making it an obvious choice considering the value of the presented material. A solid and fast internet connection is also a requirement. After a few Sundays, live streaming will become as natural as the service in the room. Some things to note include: make use of graphics and visuals as much as possible to improve retention of the material, keep movements smooth and seamless, think ahead to the next shot and focus only on the key elements. In summary, live streaming represents an excellent way to broaden the reach of ministry at a reasonable expense and will be an essential tool as the church moves forward.

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TECH + GEAR

GEAR REVIEWS COUNTRYMAN H7 MICROPHONE

735

G E A R

R E V I E W S

W W W. C O U N T R Y M A N . C O M

BY KENT MORRIS

Just as Kleenex has come to mean any facial tissue, the term Countryman or E6 is synonymous with head-worn presentation microphones. After decades of market leadership with the single-ear omni-directional E6, Countryman has developed their H7 dual ear uni-directional model with numerous advancements designed to improve both the sound and use of head mics. The H7 uses a newly developed hyper-cardioid mic element specifically focused on the needs of speech reinforcement. While omni-directional elements are most common in head mics, their smooth frequency response carries the penalty of picking up sound from every direction equally. Directional mics reject ambient noise, but do so at the expense of size and smooth off-axis response, thanks in part to varying patterns at low and high frequencies. Cardioid and hyper-cardioid mics also have a tendency to over-emphasize low-band breath and plosive energy in close-micing environments. With the H7, Countryman engineers have overcome the negative aspects of a hyper-cardioid pick-up pattern with consistent directivity coupled to a mic capsule of truly miniscule proportions. In conjunction with a broad choice of four skin tone colors, the diminutive H7 essentially disappears while in use. Dual ear head mics offer greater stability and place-

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ment options than single ear models, but often weigh significantly more and are bothersome to adjust. The H7 frame, in contrast, is a svelte .25 ounce in weight and features simple, yet independent adjustments for the boom, the ear loops and the headband. Small head mics are prone to moisture contamination and have been known to stop working when sweat levels rise. The Countryman team spent considerable time creating water resistant coatings for the connector, cable and element and added strengthening Kevlar to increase tensile strength as well. In church, presenters can range from exceptionally well controlled voice professionals to enthusiastic and wildly dynamic old-school preachers, meaning the tiny mic capsule has to handle everything from whispers to shouts with clarity and without overloading the element. Fortunately, the H7 is up to the task with strong sensitivity (-41 dB re 1/V Pa) mated to an exceptionally high maximum peak of 134 dB SPL. In essence, this means the H7 will go from quiet prayer to loud praise and deliver it all cleanly. In use, the H7 is as elegant as the specs imply. It goes on the head easily, can work around glasses, doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t move when the pastor is hugged, keeps itself discreet and looks good on camera. Countryman offers the H7 with pigtails, XLR and all the popular wireless system connectors. If the E6 was the original film, the H7 is its equally worthy sequel.

BOSS DD-200 DIGITAL DELAY PEDAL DELAY PEDAL FOR ELECTRIC GUITARS

249

BY STEVE REED

W W W. B O S S . I N F O

This pedal packs a punch into a compact space. With 12 delay modes, various tone controls, tap divisions, and even a 60 second looper this unit give you vast array of sounds from one single pedal. All setting can be saved to one of four memory slots that can only be accessed sequentially. Also available is a carryover mode that allows the last setting to finish its delay once the sound is switched off or changed.

In addition to the massive amount of control you have over your sound, this pedal affords many options to control your sound via MIDI, foot controller, and more. A hardy lock function keeps your settings protected from unwanted changes and a usb port allows you to keep your pedal updated with the latest firmware.

PROS

CONS

BOT TOM LINE

L OV E D T H E S O U N D S A N D E X T E N S I V E

MORE OPTIONS OF TE N BRING A LOT

G R E AT M I D - R A N G E P E DA L

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D E D I C AT E D TA P T E M P O B U T T O N .

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PRESETS MUST BE SCROLLED

C O U L D B E V E RY H E L P F U L

S E PA R AT E P E DA L O R B E N D I N G OV E R

T H R O U G H S E Q U E N T I A L LY. R E Q U I R E S A

F O R WO R S H I P G U I TA R I S T.

T O M A K E C H A N G E S . S M A L L P E DA L

2 2 5 M A 9V P OW E R S U P P LY T H AT I S N O T

D O E S N â&#x20AC;&#x2122; T TA K E U P A T O N O F S PAC E .

I N C LU D E D A N D D O E S N O T WO R K W I T H A S TA N DA R D P OW E R S U P P LY.

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ENCOURAGEMENT.

L E T T ER S

WI T H

LOV E

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L E T T ERS BY

WI T H DA R L E N E

love

Z S C H E C H

Hey friends, I have written about the topic of worship and justice over many years…my own revelation being that we cannot continually pursue truthful worship and not expect these life-changing encounters with Jesus to change us from the inside out. This has been a wonderful, uncomfortable, stretching, and joyfilled part of my faith journey: to follow Jesus with an unrelenting ‘yes’ requires a continual yielding in the safety of His presence.

Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. HEBREWS 13:15-16 (NIV)

VO L . 29, N O. 2 | W O R S H I P L E A D E R .C O M | W O R S H I P L E A D E R

ECOURAGEMENT

And God Himself invites us into the story of declaring and announcing His Kingdom come... through prayer, through worship, through songs, through service.

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WHAT IS WORSHIP TO YOU?

THE LIVING MESSAGE OF MISSION

In the midst of praise, the writer of Hebrews is asking us NOT to forget that there is more to our songs and declaration of faith, and that we cannot have the first half of the script without the last half. As a consumer generation, we can also become the consumers of worship. It becomes all about the songs I like or don’t like, our favorite worship teams etc. But when it’s all said and done, God is not looking for simply more songs; He is looking for people yielded to the power and presence of almighty God—people who will say YES to being His presence-carriers in this world. The Bible asks us to attend to our worshipful lives, as worship continues to affect and correct our hearts but the overflow of a worshipful life is a life lived for the glory of God. Welcome to a life of mission. President of Asbury Theological Seminary, Tim Tennent says,

Missions is the enduring call of The Church throughout all generations (Acts 1:8; cf. 28:31). Missions is about God’s Kingdom—His rule and reign—coming near in and through the person and work of Jesus. The message of missions is the good news about the Kingdom of God. It’s the good news of God’s love and hope, incarnated in the witness of the Church, empowered by the Holy Spirit, for the sake of the world. The message is good news, to be both proclaimed in word (Mk 16:15-16) and livedout in deed (Eph. 2:10). The Kingdom of God has come, which means that justice has come into the world. This means that projects like digging wells, providing food security, and working against sex trafficking are all a part of The Kingdom coming. The beauty about the worship of God is that we invite and celebrate HIS presence, His Kingdom realm. And God Himself invites us into the story of declaring and announcing His Kingdom come...through prayer, through worship, through songs, through service. I encourage you today and always to welcome the Holy Spirit into the deep places of your heart as you encounter Jesus through worship. And once He has your attention, take the time to hear Him speak into this place of service, whether nations or neighbors…Thy Kingdom Come, Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.

This is why missions cannot be relegated to merely a task of the church. Missions is the very means by which the Church becomes the body of Christ, realizing and manifesting the fullness of Christ.

VO L . 29, N O. 2 | W O R S H I P L E A D E R .C O M | W O R S H I P L E A D E R

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