DESCRIPTION: This course explores both the practical and theological
dimensions of worship leadership and examines issues relating to the planning
and implementing of worship on the Lord's Day (Sunday or Sabbath) in various
Christian traditions. A significant part of the course will be devoted to the
actual practice of worship leadership and the careful theological planning of
worship on the Lord's Day. Students will be given opportunity to participate in
the planning process of all-seminary chapels, will be exposed to the worship
life of an actual congregation, and plan worship for that church. Further, the
course gives opportunity to develop skills in the public reading of Scripture;
leading in prayer, ex tempore and prescribed; application of
pastoral care to worship; musical selection and leadership.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Four goals for learning will drive this course: First, the
student will understand the importance and centrality of corporate worship to
the mission and ministry of a congregation. Second, the student will understand
the tasks required for liturgical leadership in a variety of liturgical styles.
Third, the student will develop a greater understanding of their own gifts and
skills for pastoral ministry and liturgical ministry specifically. Fourth, the
student will be able to articulate and apply a praxis-theory-praxis methodology
for liturgical ministry.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: The phrase "going to church" almost always refers to
attending a worship service of a Christian community--whether it meets in a
church building or not. This reflects the reality that worship is the most
public face a congregation has for its members and the world. Effective and
reflective worship leadership is the keystone of ministry, both discipleship
and evangelism. This course will teach the integration of worship and pastoral
ministry and qualities that determine its effectiveness and excellence.
COURSE FORMAT: The course will meet twice weekly for two-hour meetings. It
will involve lecture and discussion of reading material, as well as various
forms of applying the concepts in this class to liturgical praxis. The course
grade will be based on projects involving case studies and other exercises of
applications of the course material.
REQUIRED READING: