When I first began exploring alternative worship movements in the mid-1990s, I picked up on what the Spirit was doing elsewhere through reading various writers. Some of it was cheesy stuff, while other writings were quite thought-provoking.
In 1999, I picked up the second edition of "Worship Evangelism: Inviting Unbelievers into the Presence of God," by Sally Morgenthaler. Some of what she was saying was not new to me, but it would have been new in 1995 ... the year before we started an alternative service at
Middlebrook Pike. Most of what I read seemed right on target for the time.
I still do a fair amount of exploring in the world of alternative worship, even finding time every so often to create a different experience at
"The Meadow." However, much of what do there is not what most would call a "contemporary" setting. There is no band and no team of praise singers. You will hear songs from the old Cokesbury hymnal, blended with tunes from the United Methodist Church Hymnal, Hymns for the Family of God, as well as Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman and others in the pop praise and worship arena. I use digital imagery, still and video, on most Sundays. Some folks might find some of the other stuff I've done downright strange -- but that's OK, my flock is quite flexible.
My flock is also quite missional. I think they understand that we are called to something beyond ourselves, and beyond our Sunday worship experience. I guess that's why they put up with what I do on Sunday: They know that's not all there is to the walk.
I tell you all of that to encourage you to
read this piece from Sally Morgenthaler.
Sally put words to what I sometimes feel when I find time to attend a contemporary worship service. Something is unsettling in my spirit when I engage in that experience, and I have not been able to put my finger on it. I think Sally has ... and I think there's been a shift in the wind.
If you are open-minded and have some time, read her words; if not, that's OK.
Grace and peace ...
Labels: worship
