Elements of a Contemporary Worship Service
Christian Churches Attracting a New Kind of Church Member
Dec 8, 2008
Contemporary worship refers to a type of Christian worship that has become quite popular during the last part of the twentieth century. It is found in many different churches, including some that would not normally be fond of such outward services. Two of the main points of a contemporary service are the music and the informal setting.
A contemporary worship service is considered somewhat informal. There is no spoken or unspoken dress code for this type of service, which is one element that attracts youth and adults alike. In a contemporary worship service, everyone is encouraged to feel free to worship, no matter how they look or what they wear. Here are more of the elements of a contemporary worship service.
Contemporary Worship Music
Generally the largest portion of the service is dedicated to congregational singing. The songs that are used are usually much different than in a traditional service, and include contemporary artists and worship hymns that are upbeat, and can even be danced to. Often times musical instruments are involved, whether it is a band or a single player. Along with that, a Praise Team is usually on stage to perform and lead the congregation in song.
A good portion of the service is lead by the "worship leader." This is usually a very talented musician or a church music minister specifically called to this position. The worship leader has a very prominent role within the church, and is often responsible for the spiritual direction of the service. He is also usually responsible for the choice of music during the service, as well as any other elements that come in to play during the contemporary service. This is a striking difference from a traditional church service where the minister or pastor leads the direction of the service and gives the sermon.
The Element of Drama and Dance
Another area of the contemporary service is the use of drama and dance. These can be powerful tools for connecting with the church members, especially those interested in theatrical events. The skits and plays performed are generally geared towards the sermon for the day, to prepare the congregation for such. This may very well be one of the hardest things for traditional congregations to get accustomed to, as many believe that dancing does not belong in a church setting. For this reason, many churches will offer both traditional and contemporary services, so everyone has a choice of what service to attend.
Combination of Contemporary and Traditional Worship
There are several churches that offer a combination of contemporary music and drama with traditional formal prayers and sermons. This seems to be very popular with the middle-aged generation. Today's Christian youth tends to like a complete contemporary worship service, in lieu of the combination service. In either case, both types of services are growing very quickly.
There is no doubt that a contemporary worship service will have a message to come away with. This is, in fact, the most important thing to happen in the service. The message can be in the music choices for the day's service, and what the worship leader has to say in-between songs, or it can come from a short sermon given by the minister or pastor of the church. As long as one draws closer to God, the contemporary worship service has done its job.
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