[Worship] Unsettled behaviour before and during worship

["Charmaine Salmon" <judah27@hotmail.com>]

I have been reading the thread regarding disturbance in worship and trying 
to get the congregation settled.  I have found that just music helps. Deep 
sounds like horns or shofas. Very soft build up of bass sounds with a little 
exhortation.  This seems to get the people more relaxed and they are not 
trying to struggle with the first few songs.  It allows most of the people 
to start on the same page.  I worship lead a church of approximately 600.  
Visitors may take it to 650.  I find this type of spontaneous band music 
really works.  You may want to focus on a particular scripture or phrase.  
For instance the Lord is good and His mercies endureth forever.  Then I 
begin to mention all the good things he has done or us as a people that 
week.  I may even tell the congregation to focus on one area of their lives 
He has broken through on. The keyboard player will play something soft and 
spontaneous then the drums may begin to build. Maybe a few guitar strings 
but very soft, the flute may then come in, which is a very soothing sound 
and then we build it slowly until it crescendos into quite a loud sound. But 
by this time the people are so focussed on Gods goodness and have built up 
their own spirits that it makes the songs that follow flow easier. This is 
just a suggestion and not the only way.  I would be pleased to hear any 
other options people may have. Do not be intimidated. When you first start 
this you feel a pressure to get on with the song list.  Just persevere for a 
few minutes and people will engage.  When they begin to feel the spirit of 
God and begin to forget and let go of their weekly demands and trials. The 
beauty of this type of introduction in worship is that you don't have to 
have every musical instrument on the planet.  Some of you who just use a 
keyboard, organ a drum.  whatever.  You can find some sounds on those 
instruments that you never knew were possible. I do advise one thing though. 
  That those who are doing this be confident. I have learned that the 
congregation will go with you if they feel led.  The way to gain confidence 
in this is to go before God in you closet with your instrument and learn 
from Him as you worship. You cannot lead people in something you have not 
yet experienced yourself. Hope this helps.  If anybody tries it please, 
please let me know.

Chars


_________________________________________________________________
Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com/intl.asp

*******************************************************************
Looking for praise and worship music?  Visit our list sponsor at:
                   http://www.worshipmusic.com

Need help with your subscription? Contact worship-help@praise.net
*******************************************************************