Joe Pace, the well known director of the Colorado Mass Choir commented in a recent interview "When the pastor, worship leader and the other music ministry staff are of one accord, you can confidently expect God to move in wondrous ways to meet the needs of His people." One accord...the needs of the people being met. The association is so true. David writes in Psalm 133, "How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!" (LASB). Let's look at the other side for a moment. What about lack of unity? Diversity is something we should celebrate within our churches. It should play a definate role in forming the vision of the local church. But once that vision has been determined, everyone in leadership must jump on board. If not, diversity in vision leads to di-vision. And that's not good. By virtue of the position - Minister of Music - it's easy to have a finger on the pulse of the church. But care must be taken to act appropriately with that information. Those prone to jumping out in front on a Sunday morning with the "hang on I have something to say" approach to leadership - particularly in subordinate ministry positions - will ultimately be looking for greener pastures. Here's why. Moving beyond the function of worship leader can forfeit unity within the leadership team and often results in the needs of the people being forfeited. And that is simply unacceptable. As hard as it is to believe, decisions made by the Senior Pastor are not made through the lense of music ministry alone, but with everyone in mind. Thank God! To effectively lead means leading, but not beyond the scope of intended function. This is a good place to be. There is fulfillment of personal calling and yet protection and accountability. And peace within the staff. What an incredible function music ministry provides for the benefit of God's people in the overall vision of the local church. It is vital, powerful and God's mandate. And God moves with purpose in the body when unity exists throughout the leadership ladder.
-Tim Covert
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