The relationship between pastor and worship leader can sometimes feel like a tug of war. When these roles are pit against one another, no one gives up the ground and everyone loses. As a worship leader for many years, I have had my fair share of heel-digging standoffs. But I have also experienced the disarming power of pastors and leaders who invite me to stand on the same side of the rope as we pull together.
There are four elements I have found consistently among those pastors and leaders working to stand on the same side of the rope:
Input…
Set vision for your worship leader not just for a service or sermon series, but for the next five, ten, twenty years of the church. Cultivate and value the formative power of the gathered Church singing, reading, praying, serving, and being sent. And equip and empower your worship leader to serve you, and lead God’s people in this way.
Trust…
As you shepherd your worship leader, trust them to translate your leadership and input into the corporate gathering. And trust the Spirit of God to do what only He can do – lead us into all truth.
Presence…
Both in preparation, and during the service your presence – or lack thereof – speaks. To the worship leader, your presence communicates trust, humility, and partnership. When pastors and worship leaders are only present in the service during ‘their’ portion of the morning, it subtly undermines the value and importance of all aspects of the gathering. As pastors, you set the tone and posture of every service.
Feedback…
Whether life-giving encouragement or loving rebuke you can shepherd the heart, skill, and vision of your worship leader through feedback. When you create an environment where input is welcome, trust is given, and presence is steady those are investments not only in your worship leader but the congregation as well.