If you keep up with this blog, you may recall some conclusions I reached after conducting numerous workshops.  Although we have thoroughly trained preachers - comparatively, there have been few to no efforts dedicated to worship leader training.  Would churches be satisfied if they did not hire pulpit ministers, but relied on a few volunteers to fill the weekly preaching? (And, by comparison, fail to encourage any of these part-time preachers to seek any kind of training?)  That's exactly how most places approach the all-important role of worship leading.

Don't misunderstand me.  I'm not implying that volunteers cannot do a great job.  Of course, they can.  My question is, why do we place all our emphasis, expectations, money, college-training, planning and hiring decisions upon seeking full-time pulpit ministers while leaving the worship directors to volunteer and "fend for themselves?"



Michael Ray And Laurel Worship Leaders

Because of this pervasive need, our ministry has been mobilizing to train leaders.

The church in Laurel, Maryland is one congregation that is doing something about this great need.  This past week, my emphasis was not the normal "congregation-wide" workshop, but rather an intense, practical training time with seven worship leaders.  I appreciate the elders of this vibrant church taking the initiative to begin a solid training process for these men.





When talented, godly men are open and willing to sharpen their skills and continue their education, great strides can be made to benefit the local  body.  My prayer is that more churches and leaders will truly seek excellence and not just continue the status quo.  Please join me in praying that God will stir a desire in the hearts of leaders around the world to invest their energies in this eternal priority.