Let's face it, sometimes the microphone can be a barrier between the congregation and the worship leader. It's not too difficult for the band to get so caught up with the technical and the musical that the people begin to feel a bit disconnected from the stage.
Worship leading is more about engaging with people than putting up a great Christian performance. It's more about connecting together with the Lord than belting out the latest musical chops. But how do we get to that special place of going beyond the functional and grasping the relational? These tips may help you:
9 Essential Tips to Engage With the Congregation:
Before the Session:
1. Pray for your community individually during your personal worship and as a team during rehearsal.
2. Imagine their expectations and experiences by putting yourself in their shoes. It's not a bad idea to walk into the place where you lead worship and stand where they stand, sit where they sit and look at the stage from where they are. This will give you fresh perspective, trust me.
3. Listen to your team. Ask them what are potential causes of disengagement and discuss possible solutions to overcome them.
During the Session:
1. Smile. Sounds too simple? Maybe it is. But a prime turn-off for people is to see a stiff worship leader going through the motions. You may possess fine technical skill, but it’s of no use without a sense of connection. And while you’re at it, please open your eyes and look at your people. You’ll definitely appear to be aloof if your eyes are constantly closed.
2. Talk to them. Don't just stand there and get through your set-list like a robot. Remember we are in this together; it's never 'us and them', but always 'we'. Open your heart to them, tell them a scripture verse, your struggle, your goal for that session etc.
3. Use familiar songs. Meet them where they are and then take them to newer songs. If your people are elderly, throw in a hymn too now and then. Let there be something for everyone in your set-list.
4. Let them sing. In some sections of songs, stop playing/singing and invite them to sing instead and create congregational solos. You'll enjoy it as much as them!
After the Session:
1. Invite feedback. Hang around after the gathering, walk around and get a feel of their experience during worship. Being an introvert, this doesn't come naturally to me, but I've worked on it over the years and it's a lot easier today! Listen dispassionately to their views whether you agree or disagree with them. You can always evaluate everything later with your team.
2. Thank people for being there and for their participation.
Worship as a ministry is highly pastoral though people see the musical side of it more. Connecting and engaging with people should be among our topmost priorities. Somebody once said, "The worship band is merely an extension of the congregation." Getting our congregation to feel so during our worship will always be a real goal for us!
Your turn to share: How do you engage with your congregation? Can you share your best tips in the comments?
