In any quality organization, there are clear codes of conduct and concrete expectations. A number of years ago I attended a worship conference at Gateway Church in Dallas and was so impressed by the organization of their worship team. Based on Gateway’s code of conduct and my own experience, here are my standards and guidelines for a strong worship team.
Demonstrate technical competence as either a singer, musician or audio/media technician. Singers and musicians must be comfortable on stage and expressive in their praise and worship before God. Maintain a faithful attendance record. Be committed to practicing an hour or more per week on their Sunday songs at home.
Churchgists will give you all you ask on rules for praise and worship team, WORSHIP TEAM GUIDELINES FOR MINISTRY and so much more.
Rules For Praise And Worship Team
Rule 1: Serve with a Humble Heart
One of the most fundamental rules for being part of a praise and worship team is to serve with a humble heart. As a team member, it is important to remember that our purpose is to lead others in worship and bring glory to God, rather than seeking personal recognition or praise. This rule is based on the teachings of Jesus, who exemplified humility throughout his life. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus says, “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted” (Matthew 23:12). Therefore, as members of the worship team, we should always approach our service with humility, acknowledging that it is not about us, but about God and the congregation we are leading.
Rule 2: Strive for Excellence
Another important rule for praise and worship team members is to strive for excellence in all aspects of their service. This rule is based on the biblical principle of offering our best to God. In the Old Testament, God commanded the Israelites to bring their best offerings and sacrifices to Him, without blemish or defect. This principle is echoed in the New Testament as well. In Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, he writes, ”So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). As members of the worship team, we should constantly seek to improve our skills, practice diligently, and give our best effort in order to lead the congregation in worship with excellence.
Rule 3: Maintain Unity and Love
Unity and love are essential qualities for any praise and worship team. This rule emphasizes the importance of working together as a team and supporting one another. The Bible teaches us that as believers, we are called to love one another and be united in purpose. In the book of Colossians, the apostle Paul writes, “Above all, put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony” (Colossians 3:14). In order to create an atmosphere of worship that is pleasing to God, it is crucial for team members to have a loving and unified spirit. This means putting aside personal differences, resolving conflicts in a healthy manner, and supporting one another in both musical and personal growth
Worship Team Guidelines Template
A worship team guidelines template can be a helpful tool in providing a clear and concise framework for team members. This template should outline the expectations, responsibilities, and rules specific to the worship team. Here is a sample template:
Worship Team Guidelines:
- Regular attendance at practices, rehearsals, and services is expected unless absence is unavoidable.
- Arrive on time and fully prepared for practices and services.
- Show respect and support for fellow team members, the worship leader, and the congregation.
- Engage in personal worship and continually cultivate a growing relationship with God.
- Strive to improve musical skills and be open to constructive criticism.
- Dress appropriately and professionally for practices and services.
- Follow the worship leader’s instructions and flow of the worship service.
- Participate in team meetings, evaluations, and training opportunities.
- Maintain a positive and prayerful attitude throughout the ministry.
- Commit to a lifestyle of worship on and off the stage.
Worship Team Responsibilities
Being part of a praise and worship team comes with several responsibilities that contribute to the effectiveness of the team in leading congregational worship. Some of these responsibilities include:
- Preparing for rehearsals and services: Team members are responsible for learning new songs, practicing instrument parts or vocal harmonies, and being familiar with the overall flow of the worship service. This preparation allows for smoother rehearsals and more impactful worship.
- Leading the congregation: The primary responsibility of a worship team is to lead the congregation in worship. This includes engaging in worship personally, cultivating an atmosphere of praise and adoration, and guiding the congregation in singing and responding to God’s presence.
- Supporting the worship leader: Worship team members should respect and submit to the leadership of the worship pastor or leader. This involves following their instructions, supporting their vision, and assisting in any specific tasks assigned by them.
- Encouraging congregational participation: A vital responsibility of the worship team is to encourage and facilitate congregational participation in worship. This can be done through clear and confident communication, providing song lyrics, and creating opportunities for the congregation to engage in worship beyond singing.
- Continual growth and improvement: Worship team members should strive for personal and musical growth. This may include taking vocal or instrumental lessons, attending worship conferences or workshops, and seeking feedback and advice from experienced musicians and mentors.
- Prayer and spiritual preparation: Spending time in prayer and seeking God’s guidance before practices and services is essential for a worship team member. This allows for a deeper connection with God and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit’s leading.
- Being a positive example: Worship team members should strive to be positive examples of Christ’s love both on and off the stage. This includes displaying integrity, humility, and love in all aspects of life.
Elevation Church Worship Team Guidelines
As one of the well-known worship teams, Elevation Church has its own set of guidelines for its worship team members. While these guidelines may vary from church to church, here are some of the general expectations set by Elevation Church:
- Ministry Covenant: Elevation Church requires all worship team members to sign a ministry covenant outlining their commitment to the guidelines and responsibilities set forth.
- Authenticity: The church values authenticity and encourages team members to lead from a place of personal encounter with God rather than simply performing.
- Team Commitment: Worship team members are expected to commit to the team, attend regular practices, rehearsals, and services, and actively participate in the life of the church.
- Character and Integrity: Elevation Church places importance on the character and integrity of its worship team members, as they are seen as representatives of the church. This includes living a life of moral purity and being accountable to fellow team members.
- Unity: The worship team is expected to function as a unified body, supporting and respecting one another, and celebrating each other’s strengths and talents.
- Preparation and Excellence: The team is encouraged to actively pursue musical and technical excellence, continuously improving their skills and preparing well for rehearsals and services.
- Spiritual Growth: Elevation Church values the spiritual growth of its worship team members and encourages them to actively engage in personal worship, involvement in a small group, and seeking mentorship.
- Heart for the House: The team is expected to prioritize the vision and mission of the church, displaying a heart for serving and contributing to the overall ministry of Elevation Church.
WORSHIP TEAM GUIDELINES FOR MINISTRY
- Participants must have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ that is consistent and growing through prayer, Bible reading and church fellowship.
- Participants must be committed attendees and givers at our church, including regular attendance at Sunday Services.
- Participants must demonstrate technical competence as either a singer, musician or audio/media technician.
- Singers and musicians must be comfortable on stage and expressive in their praise and worship before God.
- Participants must maintain a faithful attendance record.
- Singers and musicians must be committed to practicing an hour or more per week on their Sunday songs at home.
Qualities of A Good Praise And Worship Team
COMMITMENT TO A GODLY LIFESTYLE
- Worship team members are expected to live a lifestyle that is above reproach, avoiding even the appearance of evil (1 Tim. 3). Being a minister, especially one who is “up front,” adds extra responsibility because people see worship ministers as examples of what a Christian should be like. Therefore, it is imperative that we consider the way we treat each other and carefully guard our hearts from impurities and pride.
- It is God’s desire and our desire to see our worship team members living a victorious Christian life, free from bondage. If there are any addictions or issues with which you struggle, please let us know—we are here to help you, not to judge you.
The following issues should be dealt with before any public ministry position is taken:
- alcohol and drug abuse.
- sexual immorality.
- a prideful attitude or anger or rage problems.
- an inability to submit to leadership.
- gossiping and stirring up strife.
- an unbiblical lifestyle.
DRESS CODE (Special note: Dress codes vary widely depending on the size and type of a church…an informal church of 100 people who meet by the beach might have a significantly different dress code than a megachurch with a televised service… This is what works in my situation…your situation might be totally different.)