During the last Elders’ & Deacons’ meeting, several issues were discussed about our worship service, all brought to their attention by our members. I expected to hear “The service is too long,” or “That preacher talks too much,” but I was pleasantly surprised the concerns were genuine interests in improving our worship itself. After some prayerful discussion, it was decided to try the following changes, and if membership approves, they will become part of our regular worship practices.
(1) The Lord’s Supper — Enhance our focus by moving the table back to the center. Since Jesus established it, it should be a focal point of our worship, not pushed off to the side.
(2) Scripture — Add scripture at the end of the announcements to start the worship service. Also have someone else read the lesson scripture instead of the speaker, to promote involvement. Additional scripture could also be included at the Lord’s Supper.
(3) Children — They are important to our worship as the church’s future. We must continue to take the time during worship to show them they are loved as part of God’s family.
(4) Devotional song starting about 10:28 am to alert members it’s time to finish up conversations and settle in for the worship service.
Grace & Peace, Charles.