Facilitating Vision

The facilitation of vision is a topic discussed in this blog from time to time. Of course it’s an expectation of every music minister / worship leader volunteer. Everyone has their individual marching orders. However, one constant remains for everyone, it must not wear out those we’re leading to the point of frustration and exhaustion. New team members step into ministry bringing their kingdom work ethic with them. The interview and selection process can evoke great passion in words; however, words don’t always match up with action. Inspiring people to see a need is not all that difficult. Empowering someone to effectively gain ministry knowledge and whole-heartedly follow and eventually lead others… that’s what we’re really called to do. I’m not proud of it, but on occasion I have worn people out to the point of exhaustion - not everyone, but some. It has obviously never been my goal. I also know, it’s not all because of the demands of ministry. People are often very busy with extra curricular activities. When I ask someone to be a part of anything I often get that momentary calculating gaze. As their eyes glaze over they’re thinking… “I know this is important, but can I fit it in with my bowling league, Jazzercise and my sons soccer schedule? Ah, such is ministry. For leaders with big plans and few people, this becomes an almost insurmountable problem. I feel your pain. I also have an aversion to using smoke and mirrors in an attempt to sell the glory of ministry just to get someone on the team. I will not go there. The Apostle Paul articulated a clear plan to consistently involve others and not go crazy in the process. He writes in Philippians 3:17 NLT; “Dear brothers and sisters, pattern you lives after mine, and learn from those who follow our example.” Paul is saying progress is a function of everyone learning and working together toward a common goal.  As leaders we must set the example. There’s no getting around it. Tom Kraeuter writes in his book ‘Keys to Becoming an Effective Worship Leader’, “Few people like to accept the responsibility of being a model for others to follow. However, like it or not, being an example comes with the territory.” As leaders we must help others see the value of what is being asked of them. Work hard. Encourage, encourage, encourage fellow laborers. And don’t forget to encourage yourself.

God is good,

Tim Covert

Building Team Camaraderie

A common approach for worship leaders is to view those assisting in corporate worship through a variety of lenses. Occasionally, a picture develops (shall we say) a little out of focus. For the worship leader working with a band member who faithfully fulfills his/her musical role but does not fully engage in the much needed concept of team, take heart. We’ve all been there. Browsing through various materials, I ran upon seven simple principles regarding building team camaraderie. These principles were taken with appreciation from the Ohio A/G District Website. We’ve discussed these principles before. They are worthy of being repeated. 1. “Set high expectations.” Volunteers need to know what is expected to be the best team player they can be. Surprise expectations can set a wrong tone that sometimes cannot be overcome later. Be upfront. 2. “Communicate consistently.” Some things are common sense like scheduling, etc. Consistent communication on broader topics allows volunteers the opportunity to more fully relate to the finer points of ministry. 3. “Respect individual giftings and roles.” Not everyone has the same ability. Define the role individuals will play. 4. “Invest in people not a position.” Don’t put all your eggs in the basket of one gifted musician. Provide an opportunity for those with lesser ability to improve. Certainly a strong team is the goal. When that exists, invest in those who can function within the context of a strong team. Articulate goals for individuals. Invest in the future. 5. “Affirmation creates an attractive work place.” Affirmation encourages the team to improve in their personal and collective performance, which ultimately assists in their ability to communicate and minister. Affirmation should exist in the areas of both music and spiritual life. 6. “Keep a focus on the bigger picture.” It’s easy to get lost in all the details. The big picture should remain ever present in the worship leader’s mind and made an ongoing focus for the team—not just when things are going wrong. 7. “Know the strategy for conflict resolution.” It’s impossible to go through life without conflict. The previous six points should provide a foundation to lessen the potential but conflict will inevitably arrive. Be prepared to lovingly deal with it. Lead proactively and productively.

God is good,

Tim Covert