Good congregational singing begins with pastoral leadership. The leaders of the church, not the musicians are ultimately responsible for how the congregation is singing. Here's a 10-point checklist to help pastors assess the congregational singing.
(1). Does my congregation know why they sing? - It is the pastors responsibility to see that this aspect of worship is explained, nourished and celebrated. It is not a warm-up (preparing our hearts) to the main event of the sermon.
(2). Is our church singing strong songs? - We need to hunt for good songs. These songs should be infectious with emotional melodies, combined with artistry. They should declare the wonders of the Lord. Teach new good songs and repeat familiar good songs.
(3). Am I part of the weekly song selection process?
(4). Am I overseeing the overall selection or "canon" of songs? - The pool of songs for congregational singing is larger than ever. There is less accountability of how these songs are written. We need to be discerning and selective. We need to cover a lot of doctrines that cover all seasons of life.
(5). Am I passionately involved in the singing? - Pastors should be visible during the church singing, modeling for others what passionate worship looks like.
(6). Am I leading, encouraging, teaching, and building strong relationships with all the musicians? - The church music team should not be an entity unto themselves. The pastors should be pouring into them so that they understand the vision and mission of the church. Encouragement is needed for this minsitry.
(7). Do I regularly encourage the congregation in their singing? - Encourage the flock to sing to each other. Give short reflections on what has been or what is about to be sung.
(8). Am I encouraging the congregation to prepare for Sunday? - Email songs and setlists. Encouraging singing at home and in the car and everywhere else. Do we ask them to pray about how they'll serve each other on Sunday through singing.
(9). Am I planning the service order in a sensitive and creative way? - Order and timing can enhance a service or cause a big distraction. It is recommended that you select songs to enhance the message of the sermon especially in response to the sermon at the end of the service.
(10). Am I overseeing the development of singing in congregational life? - In leadership meetings, make the first questions you ask (for one year), how did the congregation sing?
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