“Worship music should encourage every-member ministry. While we appreciate purposeful and appropriate special music, we believe that God is uniquely glorified by congregational singing.”

I do believe that corporate worship should be “intentionally congregational,” but obviously that doesn’t rule out a representative praying on behalf of the church, preaching, etc. Nor does it rule out prepared music. I love to see efforts to make even prepared music congregationally conscious, though. As you suggest, having the entire body sing a final verse can be very effective. I love that. Using the choir or soloist to introduce a new hymn (such as one found here!) is another option. :) Including texts in the bulletin helps. At the very least, having the special music contribute to the overall theme of the worship service is a good thing. I think of it this way: if prepared music points people Christ-ward, let’s do it. If it’s merely a demonstration of talent or a habit, let’s not.

I don’t mean to make an unsupportable statement that all prepared music is somehow wrong or unhelpful. That’s not the case.

However, I think your case for correcting the balance might be over-stated, and overstating a case can tend to raise credibility questions. It sounds like you are saying congregational music is the only true form of corporate worship, and that solos and choir numbers are never more than just performances. In reality, solos and choir anthems can and should be corporate worship as well, if the congregation is listening to and agreeing with the message of text.

God gave us the gift of music to enjoy. The beauty of music that exalts the Lord and enhances a good text comes out much more clearly in a choir anthem than is possible in a congregational setting. Also, God has given musical gifts to many people–we would not be using those gifts appropriately if we never allow them to be a blessing to others through solos or choir anthems.

Yes the current philosophy of many is too far on the side of composing and arranging for choirs and small groups. And that has to be called into question. But there has to be a balance, and an appreciation for both uses of music in corporate worship. One thing I have been encouraged to do in arranging choir anthems is to include the congregation in at least one verse of the arrangement, which serves to keep them actively involved in the music and text.

I just found this site today and I am excited about finding it. I look forward to your continuing ministry here.

Chris Collins