Matthew Waymack
How do I choose songs for a Sunday morning?
When selecting the songs for a Sunday morning, there are multiple factors in play. The first is, "What is the guiding passage of Scripture for the service?" This could be related to the sermon series directly or to a supporting passage of Scripture. Worship is God revealing and man responding, and the best way God reveals is through His Word; therefor, Scripture is the starting point. A second consideration would be, "Where are we going as a worship ministry?" For example, are we approaching Christmas? Easter? A night of worship? If so, then the congregation should get familiar with some of the songs we are using for those events. A final consideration for me would be, "Which team rotation are we on?" I often have four teams on rotation which will naturally develop a repertoire of music, so if I am between two songs that equally work with the guiding Scripture passage, I will consider the team themselves.
How do I deal with conflict in the church?
When conflict arises in the church, my number one response is to approach it prayerfully. Conflict is inevitable due to our sinful nature and the guidance of the Holy Spirit is the best way to overcome it. Also, once I begin praying for those I am in conflict with, I know God will change my heart towards that person. Then, in a proper attitude and mindset, conflict resolution can be handled humbly and sensitively.
When it comes time to attempt to resolve the conflict, I find it vitally important to remember that the people are not the problem. I have found that people just want to know they are loved, heard, and cared for, and if I view them as the problem itself, it is much harder to love, hear, and care for them. Clarifying the root of the problem, a willingness to compromise, and a readiness to call in additional support are all necessary as well. Conflict is not always able to result in a win/win, but when handled correctly, it can lead to positive results that honor God
How do I manage a budget in the church?
When looking at a church ministry budget, the biggest key consideration is the church’s mission statement. Every budget must start with the overall goal of the church as set by the senior pastor. Then, from that foundation, I look at the context of the worship ministry: what avenues of the worship ministry are currently put in place, the people that make it up, the goals for growth, any current or upcoming issues or needed improvements. Finally, with much prayer, I then take the two and use them as parameters on what to spend the allotted budget on. Once a budget is made, especially if there is need for an increase or major purchase outside of the worship ministry budget, I find it important to clearly present the budget to the senior pastor and/or finance committee, explaining how the use of the church's resources will help further the church's mission
How do I cultivate a relationship with staff members, especially the senior pastor?
When considering staff relations, in a perfect world, the staff members of a church would be in constant unity of purpose and process; however, for the vast majority of churches, conflict among staff members is all too common. Sadly, that conflict is also often between a staff member and the senior pastor. In cultivating relationships with the church staff and senior pastor, I find it important to remember the "three P's" which are, "Pray, Plan, and Play." Praying with one another helps us be united as brothers and sisters in Christ. Through prayer, we can develop deep bonds with those we are serving with making it a crucial first step. Planning with one another refers primarily in the worship pastor role towards Sunday morning services with the senior pastor; however, it can also involve events throughout the church. Proper planning and communication of expectations allows all team players to best serve and support each other's ministries. Finally, it is important to also form relationships with each other outside of the church. Sharing a meal or a hobby is a great way to unite staff members and strengthen their friendships. The "three P's" help the staff of the church be more united to then better accomplish the mission of the church for God's kingdom.
How do I handle using Bethel,
Hillsong,
and/or Elevation
in corporate worship?
When answering this question, there are typically three issues that arise as roadblocks for worship pastors. The first two, "The theology and practices of the writers" and "The money the writers receive through doing their songs" come down to the worship pastor's own convictions. I find the second point easier to answer than the first knowing that the revenue an artist receives from doing a song on a Sunday morning one time is extremely minimal. The first point though has been a bit of a struggle for me; however, I have come to realize that God often uses unlikely sources to grow His people (Numbers 22:21-39; Joshua 2). So I have no personal convictions against using great songs that present truth no matter where they come from, unless it comes to issue number three, "The senior pastor says no." In this case, it honestly does not matter what I think or feel about it. My responsibility is to respect and support my senior pastor, and the good news is that there is always another song available to sing that would be approved by the senior pastor.
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