Friday, October 05, 2007
Monday, October 01, 2007
Emerging Worship
This past Sunday we held the first Emerging Worship service for the year led by the Youth Praise Band (who knows, maybe we will come up with a name for the group in the near future…). Although the microphone levels weren’t perfect and some songs were less familiar to the congregation this was a great service in which we could encounter God through a different style than Sunday morning (although our choral worship style is in fact a wonderful way to worship God). Below are a couple of pictures of the praise band. 
Emerging Worship
But what exactly is “Emerging Worship” (A.K.A. Emergent Worship)? Do you really just mean “Contemporary?”
In practice the two terms share many similarities. Both are likely to use guitars, drums and other instruments common in today’s musical scene. They both strive to contextualize worship into the context of a particular group of people. Both strive to use music as a way to open hearts and emotions to connecting with God through worship.
So how is “Emerging” different than “contemporary” To understand that lets contrast the two words. Both terms emphasize time. “Contemporary” refers to the time period of now. Unlike the term “traditional” which emphasizes following methods or styles of the past “contemporary” seeks to worship God through “today’s” styles and methods. When the movement emerged this style shattered expectations of what church was all about as it emphasized worshiping in new and relevant ways.
The words “emerge” “emerging” “Emerging” carry a different meaning. They do not reflect a single time period but rather a process. Unlike “contemporary” which emphasizes now, “Emerging” emphasizes the process of moving forward. It is grounded in the past and the future, not in the present.
One difference this creates is a deep connection to the past. Tradition and church history shape who we emerge into being. Music, worship, and theology cannot be understood simply by looking at today’s culture. All of these elements have long and meaningful histories and traditions that shape who we are as individual believers and as bodies of believers.
However, God is not done working in the world. We can’t simply look at traditions and the past for what God has done. All of the traditions that currently have meaning to us emerged from something else That process is still going on. We not only remember the story of Christianity, the story of worship, but we also are experiencing next chapter that God is writing.
This is considerably less stagnant than the “contemporary” style. After all what is contemporary one year can easily become “old” the next. Describing “Lord I Lift Your Name on High” as contemporary hardly makes sense. This song, like many others has had a dramatic impact on worship and help lead people to worshipping God in meaningful ways. Likewise new songs and styles will emerge which will continue to help worshipers experience God.
For me I find that I am too connected with the past to be “contemporary.” I just like hymns way too much. I agree with traditional theology too much to throw that away. On the other hand I am not satisfied with living in the past through relying on tradition. I want to be part of the story of faith that begun with God creating the world and continues with new creation even today.
It is possible that this is more my take on worship than a view endorsed by the “Emerging Church” movement. Also, much of the new worship music reflects a combination of tradition and innovation without being part of the “Emerging” movement.
Several key ideas involved with Emerging Church movement are that of postmodernism, conversation, narrative, creativity, holistic, non-hierarchical. Critics of the movement (though less so the worship style addressed above) include assert that the movement is pluralistic, a movement of protest, intolerant towards conservative evangelicals, and to hold non-orthodox views.
For more information on the Emerging church and Emerging worship including some criticism’s of the movement check out these links.
New York Times Article
Emerging Worship
But what exactly is “Emerging Worship” (A.K.A. Emergent Worship)? Do you really just mean “Contemporary?”
In practice the two terms share many similarities. Both are likely to use guitars, drums and other instruments common in today’s musical scene. They both strive to contextualize worship into the context of a particular group of people. Both strive to use music as a way to open hearts and emotions to connecting with God through worship.
So how is “Emerging” different than “contemporary” To understand that lets contrast the two words. Both terms emphasize time. “Contemporary” refers to the time period of now. Unlike the term “traditional” which emphasizes following methods or styles of the past “contemporary” seeks to worship God through “today’s” styles and methods. When the movement emerged this style shattered expectations of what church was all about as it emphasized worshiping in new and relevant ways.
The words “emerge” “emerging” “Emerging” carry a different meaning. They do not reflect a single time period but rather a process. Unlike “contemporary” which emphasizes now, “Emerging” emphasizes the process of moving forward. It is grounded in the past and the future, not in the present.
One difference this creates is a deep connection to the past. Tradition and church history shape who we emerge into being. Music, worship, and theology cannot be understood simply by looking at today’s culture. All of these elements have long and meaningful histories and traditions that shape who we are as individual believers and as bodies of believers.
However, God is not done working in the world. We can’t simply look at traditions and the past for what God has done. All of the traditions that currently have meaning to us emerged from something else That process is still going on. We not only remember the story of Christianity, the story of worship, but we also are experiencing next chapter that God is writing.
This is considerably less stagnant than the “contemporary” style. After all what is contemporary one year can easily become “old” the next. Describing “Lord I Lift Your Name on High” as contemporary hardly makes sense. This song, like many others has had a dramatic impact on worship and help lead people to worshipping God in meaningful ways. Likewise new songs and styles will emerge which will continue to help worshipers experience God.
For me I find that I am too connected with the past to be “contemporary.” I just like hymns way too much. I agree with traditional theology too much to throw that away. On the other hand I am not satisfied with living in the past through relying on tradition. I want to be part of the story of faith that begun with God creating the world and continues with new creation even today.
It is possible that this is more my take on worship than a view endorsed by the “Emerging Church” movement. Also, much of the new worship music reflects a combination of tradition and innovation without being part of the “Emerging” movement.
Several key ideas involved with Emerging Church movement are that of postmodernism, conversation, narrative, creativity, holistic, non-hierarchical. Critics of the movement (though less so the worship style addressed above) include assert that the movement is pluralistic, a movement of protest, intolerant towards conservative evangelicals, and to hold non-orthodox views.
For more information on the Emerging church and Emerging worship including some criticism’s of the movement check out these links.
New York Times Article
Wikipedia Article
Theopedia Article
Emergent Village
Vineyard Website
Amazon Books about the Emerging Church
Theopedia Article
Emergent Village
Vineyard Website
Amazon Books about the Emerging Church
See You at the Pole
We had a great time at See You at the Pole on September 26. Food, worship, and prayer took place at the two middle schools, MP, and MA. Here are a few pictures from MP.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Six Flags Fright Fest
Trip canceled: Unfortunately we did not have enough people sign up so we will reschedule for another time. If you paid for the trip expect your check to be returned this week. Are you ready for thrills and chills? Join us as we enjoy the fantastic rides and scary theme for Fright Fest at Six Flags (click on the image for more details).
When: Saturday, October 13
Time: Leave the church at 9:00 in the morning and be back at 11:30 that night
Cost: $30
DEADLINE: THIS FRIDAY. We need your $30 turned into Josh or the office by Friday (September 28) at noon.
Notes
If we do not have enough people to get a group discount we may need to cancel the trip. In that case you will receive a complete refund.
Please let me know if finances are holding you back from going on this trip. There is an opportunity for you to still go.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
The Council is Called
The Youth Council will meet this Wednesday (Sept 19) following the evening Bible study. This meeting should last approximately from 7:15-7:45. This is part of our schedule to meet on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month.
Josh
Josh
Monday, September 17, 2007
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Lock-in Schedule
Arrive (Youth House)
6:00 Arrive and check in
Ultimate Frisbee (Mary Persons Track)
6:30 Go to field
6:45-8:00 Ultimate Tournament
Karaoke & Party (Legion Hall)
8:00 Travel to Legion Hall
8:10 Karaoke, food & fellowship
11:00 Return to church
Free Time (Youth House)
11:00-12:00 Free time (good time to arrive late)
Special Event (Fellowship Hall)
Pep Rally/Bible Study (Youth House)
1:00 Stay awake with some group games and spend time reflecting on the Seven Deadly sins
Church Games- (Inside the Church)
2:25 Move stuff over to the church
2:30-5:00 Capture the flag, Sardines, Man Hunt (and/or sleep in designated area)
Wakeup & Breakfast- (Fellowship Hall)
5:30 Breakfast of Champions (cereal)
5:45 Pack up
6:00 Leave (for real, all the adults are definitely ready to go!)
Please call Josh to let him know what time you will be coming if you plan on arriving late or if you have any questions. 478-973-9329.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
LOCK-IN!!!
Friday, September 14-15 we will have a fun-filled lock-in. We will be repeating much of what has been fun at previous lock-ins but will also include a couple new activities that you may never have experienced at a lock-in before.Start Time: 6:00
End Time: 6:00
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. I have an away game (or other commitment) can I come late?
A. Yes. Please let Josh know your plans though so he can be planning on your arrival. This may be important for activities or scheduling during the lock-in.
Q. I have to work (or other commitment) and need to leave early
A. This is no problem, but make sure you let Josh know your plans. Also, you aren't guaranteed to privacy. There is a good chance that Josh will speak to your parents and mention your leaving early, so it is not recommended to try to use the lock-in as a way to trick your parents.
Q. Will there be a Bible study?
A. The Youth Council has provided input to help provide a spiritual dimension to the lock-in. There will not a Bible study every hour, but be prepared for lots of time to hang out, to play and even some time to reflect on God.
Q. We have to bring money?
A. Yes, $5. This is both for food and an activity. The youth budget is also contributing to the cost of the lock-in to keep it down.
Q. Are we actually locked in?
A. Just figuratively. Which means no.
Q. Will there be sleeping involved?
A. Depends on the person but a sleeping bag is suggested.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Youth News
Fifth Quarters: Start tonight (August 31 and will be after every home game). Food, fun, fellowship, football, who could ask for anything more?
Lock-In: September 14-15. It should be super fun and Youth Council is planning the schedule
Youth Council: Speaking of Youth Council... we had an info meeting the other night. There are three main goals of youth council: 1. Leadership 2. Planning 3.Spiritual Growth. Planning is the main thing we will do in meetings, but being part of Youth Council means committing to being a leader in the youth group and personal spiritual growth. Our meetings will be the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month from 7:15-8:00 (gollowing Wed. night Bible study). Please contact Josh if you would like to join.
See You @ the Pole: September 26 at 7:00 am at the middle schools and highschool.
Amazing Race: Wednesday, October 31
Lock-In: September 14-15. It should be super fun and Youth Council is planning the schedule
Youth Council: Speaking of Youth Council... we had an info meeting the other night. There are three main goals of youth council: 1. Leadership 2. Planning 3.Spiritual Growth. Planning is the main thing we will do in meetings, but being part of Youth Council means committing to being a leader in the youth group and personal spiritual growth. Our meetings will be the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month from 7:15-8:00 (gollowing Wed. night Bible study). Please contact Josh if you would like to join.
See You @ the Pole: September 26 at 7:00 am at the middle schools and highschool.
Amazing Race: Wednesday, October 31
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Youth Council
What is Youth Council?
How can I join?
Why should I join?
When will it meet?
Will it be the same as last year?
Am I really qualified?
Aren't I too cool for something nerdy like that?
These are a few of the questions you may have about Youth Council (the leadership team made up of youth). We will have an information meeting on Wednesday, August 29 from 7:15 to 8:00 to answer these questions and more. Come to this meeting if you are interested in being involved in the leadership of your youth group.
Josh
How can I join?
Why should I join?
When will it meet?
Will it be the same as last year?
Am I really qualified?
Aren't I too cool for something nerdy like that?
These are a few of the questions you may have about Youth Council (the leadership team made up of youth). We will have an information meeting on Wednesday, August 29 from 7:15 to 8:00 to answer these questions and more. Come to this meeting if you are interested in being involved in the leadership of your youth group.
Josh
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