The chart below shows how hymns and choruses can be effectively combined in ways that allow for variety, while keeping a flow to worship.
We don’t want to stumble or break our stride while running. Overall, think of the tempos the following way: invitation and engagement (running), exaltation (jogging), adoration (walking), and intimacy (stopping, silent communion, gazing).
Here’s what a twenty-minute “worship set” could look like.
Congregation stands:
Invitation
We Bring a Sacrifice of Praise
Key: D
Engagement
Rejoice in the Lord Always
Key: D
Exaltation
Rejoice, the Lord Is King
Key: B/C
Crown Him with Many Crowns
Key: C
Congregation is seated:
Exaltation/Adoration
Glorify Your Name
Key: B-flat/C
Adoration
I Love You, Lord
Key: F
Intimacy
As the Deer Pants for the Water
Key: C
Congregation stands:
Closeout
Fairest Lord Jesus
Key: D-flat/D
Granted, hymns are more difficult to incorporate into the model. Their wide range of thoughts introduced from stanza to stanza tend to spill over into more than one phase. On the other hand, choruses, usually containing only one major thought, tend to fall into a single phase more easily.
When hymns are included in the set, organists can share in the worship. The organ can be particularly effective during a hymn of exaltation or the close-out.
– Barry Liesch
104 SUMMER/93
Copyright © 1993 by the author or Christianity Today/Leadership Journal. Click here for reprint information on Leadership Journal.
