Has The Passion Passed? By John Wm. Roberts, ED.D., Contributing Writer One of the greatest joys of a worship service is the singing which occurs–the blending of voices sincerely praising the blessing of God in their lives. This blending is not only of the choirs but also of the congregation. I recently read an article from a religious organization that asked a similar question. Unfortunately, many churches have gone the way of ‘performance-based religious worship’ versus ‘participatory-based religious worship.’
Historically and traditionally, worship with music has always been participatory. It is one of the high points of the worship experience – hearing the natural melodies and harmonies of both choir and congregation exalting the goodness of God. This exaltation, often, would penetrate the sacred area of the pulpit. Pastors, preachers, and evangelists would begin rhythmically tapping their knees and feet, clapping and waving their hands, standing in acknowledgment, and even singing with the choir and congregation.
With the emergence of ‘megachurches,’ this participatory-based portion of worship has been replaced with professional singers and musicians who make up ‘Worship or Praise Teams.’ These musicians have replaced the choir in many megachurch congregations. Many pastors are encouraging members not to participate during the singing portion of the service. Several reasons may underpin this decision; however, it discourages members from participating in an integral part of the worship experience. In this performance-based form of worship, many of the musical numbers are almost entirely contemporary. This shift is not an indictment of this religious music genre; however, without the infusion of “songs of the faith,” younger members of the congregation know nothing about the music which has buoyed faith and faithful and the importance of these music selections in the foundations of their faith/faith system. Additionally, it excludes many older members from remembering and connecting them to their spiritual journey.
Worship is intended as a conduit for the faithful to connect with God. It is not based on how perfectly a song is performed; it is based on the participation of the congregation with the choir. A personal connection to God is or should be, the spiritual rudder for each believer. Allowing this musical connection to be severed diminishes the connection of the faithful. Therefore, participation in the musical portion of the worship experience is essential.
Participation versus performance is a slippery slope – musically. The majority of churches are not able to afford paid professional musicians and singers. These congregations rely on the participation of congregants with the choir or as their choir. It brings a sense of communal connection to God and elevates the worship experience for everyone. Never let the passion diminish for the faith or the music of the faith.
John Wm. Roberts, ED.D. is the Director of Music/Principal Musician at Lee Chapel AME Church in Auburn, Alabama, in the Ninth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
