3 First Steps for Beginners
What can I do instantly to get everyone worshipping together?
So many people tell us that they have tried to do ‘all-age’ worship and given up. Many churches want to have Worship For Everyone but for a variety of reasons it just feels too difficult. But when all-age worship ‘works’ we get to model worship to our children, and at the same time be inspired by their child-like, uncomplicated faith and freedom in worship. There is so much to be gained from worshipping together, but someone somewhere has to catch a vision and just start doing something. So, if that’s you, and you’re starting from scratch, here are 3 simple things you could instantly do to get started.
1. Examine your church’s vision.
In order to move forward, we have to begin by having a thoroughly realistic look at what our church’s values are for Worship For Everyone. If you are in church leadership, ask yourself what your church’s current vision is for worshipping together. And then, where would you like it to be? What is lacking? Is it human resource? Is it a leader? Is it song selection?Or are you a worship leader or children’s worker, battling under leaders that don’t have the vision you have? That’s a tough place to be – but most Pastors just need proof that it can work! Perhaps you are the one to pioneer it…
2. Team.
Find one or two others like you. Ideally initiate a prayer and brainstorm meeting for anyone in your church who is passionate about all ages worshipping together. When 2 or more are gathered Jesus is present, and momentum can be built. It’s about getting a team together – no one person can drive Worship For Everyone forward.
3. Find one new song.
Teach it to the whole church at the start of the service (if you have permission!). Be bold with the adults, inviting them to participate, and ask the children to come forward. Crucially, if you can get someone (or several people – adults or older children) to learn the actions and teach them clearly from the front. Encourage the musicians to smile and lead confidently. Don’t worry if it feels messy – just make a start. You will hopefully find that people love it. If you get the right song that everyone can engage with, the joy of seeing all ages singing and doing actions together in worship is so contagious! It’s a glimpse of Heaven and hopefully you’ll have a congregation desperate to extend this time together and do it more often.
…and of course alongside all of these points, pray, pray and pray! God loves to hear the praises of His whole church and He’s the one that can enable it to happen!