By Deborah Bruce
Worship is at the heart of every congregation and nurtures the faith of those who attend. Worship services are usually the main gathering of a congregation and the first place where new people connect with the congregation. What did worshipers from over 5,000 congregations that have participated in the U.S. Congregational Life Survey tell us about worship in their congregation?
Experiencing the presence of God is what draws most worshipers. When asked about the two main reasons for attending services, these two stand out: (1) worshiping or experiencing God (62% of worshipers said this was one of the two main reasons why they attend), and (2) receiving Holy Communion or the Eucharist or participating in the Lord's Supper (31%). Other reasons for attending services include seeking encouragement and inspiration (25%) and searching for a time of prayer or reflection (15%).
Most meaningful aspects of worship. Worship services include a variety of activities and are conducted in a variety of styles. Which elements are most meaningful to worshipers? Three stand out: prayer, the sermon or homily, and Holy Communion. More than half of worshipers also say that reading Scriptures and congregational singing help make worship meaningful.
Worship styles. Worshipers are fairly evenly split in their preferences for worship that is enthusiastic and energetic (preferred by 44%) and worship that is quiet and reflective (41%). A similar split exists between those who prefer consistency versus variety in worship 43% prefer worship that offers new experiences each week, while 42% prefer worship that is consistent from week to week. (In each pair, the remaining 15% have no preference.)
Unfortunately, numerous members are connected to their congregations through a single worship service each week. And many don't attend that often. That means the worship services must achieve excellence each and every week.
What can your congregation do to ensure worshipers experience God each week?
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