articles

How Worship Leaders Should Handle Critique & Criticism

Critique and criticism are invaluable for growth, yet many leaders recoil instinctively. Distinguish constructive critique from harmful criticism. Confirm the source’s validity to filter input wisely. Search harsh comments for kernels of truth, but don’t let the harsh words bog you down. Don’t justify, but clarify. Listen more than you…

5 Non-Negotiables When Using Loops In Worship

Loops can enhance but also overwhelm worship, so small churches should use them selectively. Choose just 1-2 songs and match subtle loops to your band’s size. Reliable software prevents choking. Decide if keyboards, drums, or worship leader runs loops, with volume mixing. Musicians need clear signals on timing to lock…

It’s Time to Release Churches from the Myth of Infinite Expansion

Though rapid growth is alluring, infinite expansion is impossible for churches. Exponential gains always reach an inflection point requiring change to sustain. Focus less on rapid multiplication and more on maximizing your campus. Parking and seating capacity seem like barriers but with multiple services, signage, and a willingness to see…

We All Like New Things: Why Singing a New Song Is Important

Introducing new songs is vital to keep worship fresh, but it can be challenging. Over-relying on familiar songs leads to diminishing returns. Regular evaluation of your song choices, even soliciting feedback, reveals when it’s time for something new. Go slow, just 1-2 songs per month. Use repetition across services and…

12 Ways To Grow Your Worship Ministry

Are you trying to grow in your calling as a worship leader? Here’s a powerful list of 12 keys that presents wisdom gained from author Mark Cole’s 30+ years of leading worship. Things like developing administrative skills, running effective rehearsals, picking great songs, building a strong team, mentoring new leaders,…

15 Ways to Recognize Control Freaks in Your Church

It’s important to keep your eyes open for controlling lay leaders in church who can negatively impact pastors, decision-making, and the overall health of the congregation. This list will help you spot negative behavior before it’s too late! See the full list.

Behind the Decline: Unraveling the Forgotten Reasons of Fading Neighborhood Churches

Sam Rainer, President & Senior Consultant at Church Answers, explores the challenges faced by neighborhood churches in today’s changing landscape. As a contemporary church worship leader, understanding these issues is crucial for fostering growth and vitality in your congregation. Rainer delves into the historical context of neighborhood churches, highlighting how…

9 Tips for Teaching Your Worship Team a New Song

Introducing a new worship song to your team can be tricky, but good preparation is key. Here are 9 tips to help your team learn a new song well, like sharing the original recording, finding great charts, showing live videos, using training resources, purchasing multitracks, writing vocal parts, modifying the…

The Top 20 Fast Worship Songs of 2023 [with Tutorials]

Looking for the best fast tempo worship songs to elevate your service? Here’s a compiled list of 20 upbeat praise songs [with tutorials!] with driving rhythms, passionate vocals, and powerful messages that will get your congregation singing, dancing, and celebrating God’s goodness. See the full list.

4 Ways To Bring Your Congregation Forward In Worship

Do you long to see your congregation more fully engaged in worship? Here are 4 practical ways to help move people forward on their worship journey. The keys that jump out – take time and don’t rush changes. Know the congregation’s “sweet spot” and work with it, honoring what connects…

5 Best Practices For Leading Worship For A Funeral

Leading worship at a funeral service comes with unique challenges and opportunities. Music can provide comfort and healing to those who are grieving, but how do we choose the right songs and instruments? Dan Wilt shares 5 best practices for worship leaders serving families in mourning. From recognizing the vulnerable…

Top 20 Christian Funeral Songs for Worship Leaders

Music plays a powerful role during funerals, helping us grieve and find hope in loss. But selecting the right Christian songs for memorial services can be difficult. This article shares the top 20 Christian funeral songs to honor the dead and comfort the living. Covering a variety of artists and…

How Your Church Can Have the Best Year-End Ever with Kenny Jahng

PODCAST: The last 45 days of the year present a prime opportunity for churches to encourage generosity and increase year-end giving. But with people bombarded by requests from many causes, how can your church stand out? Podcaster Rich Birch talks with expert Kenny Jahng about a strategic coaching cohort called…

How Do You Evaluate Your Sunday Church Services?

Evaluating your church’s Sunday services can be tricky, but it’s crucial for improvement. Mark Cole shares how he developed a simple 10-question survey to get constructive feedback from church members every week. The results helped identify issues and strengthen their gatherings. Though blunt feedback isn’t for everyone, evaluation led to…

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