Worship Leader at 2 different churches

by Jim Snedeker
(Winchester, VA USA)

quick iphone pic

You might think it weird, but - yes - this was my dream job - being a worship leader.

I had the opportunity to be interviewed recently by a young worship leading friend of mine who is doing interviews for his web site. What follows are my responses to his questions.

Worship Ministry Leader Questionnaire

If you could name one bible verse that comes to mind regarding “worship” what would it be and what is the significance of that verse to you and your ministry?

1 Peter 2:9 is one of my favorite verses regarding worship. Being one of a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, belonging to God, reminds me of the privilege, and the responsibility I have to “declare the praises” of Him who called us out of darkness into His wonderful light. Because we receive mercy we begin to understand who God is. That is why we must declare His worth, His goodness, His faithfulness, His holiness. As His church we have a special mission, or calling to do this. In terms of ministry, this means that each of us, regardless of our role, brings his best to each rehearsal or main event.

How do you spiritually prepare for any given Sunday of leading worship?

Worship is all about relationship, so for me, spiritual preparation consists of living my everyday life consistent with what I sing about and declare to people who look to me as a leader.

I practice a daily focus on the Word and prayer to be tuned in to God's direction. I have a small group of believers I'm accountable to. This helps protect me from the pride that can make my leadership ineffective.

But another aspect of being spiritually prepared, for me, is to know the music as well as possible. The more comfortable I am musically, the more sensitive I am to the Holy Spirit in leading the team and the congregation.

What is the one thing you want every one of your worship team members to understand and incorporate into his or her act of worship on any given Sunday?

The one thing I want is for each team member to enjoy the Lord as their main act of worship. This assumes they know the music, get along with the team, have a growing relationship with the Lord, and practice the habit of worship in private. The intimacy and authenticity of their public worship depends on what happens when they are not serving up front.

What is the one piece of advice you would give to a young worship leader who is building their ministry from the ground up?

Be accountable to a more mature believer who can mentor you. This will help you get along well with your pastor and church leadership, develop stronger relationships, and improve your musical and leadership skills. It will help you develop compassion and learn to laugh at your own mistakes.

Please let me know how long you have been in the ministry and how many people are involved in your direct team. Also list your church position and the web address for your church.

I've been a church musician over 30 years, and served as Music Director/Worship Leader for 10 years in 2 different churches - due to a job relocation. My direct teams have involved about 20 people. I also had responsibility for a youth music program totaling about 30 children and 2 assistants. Event preparation, such as a Sunday service involved 6 – 10 people including lights, sound and video.

Linworth Road Community Church – Columbus, OH – Worship Leader - 1998 – 2002
www.linworthroad.org

Community of Grace Church – Richmond, VA – Worship Leader - 2002 – 2007
www.richgrace.org