Summary

The little words and phrases from scripture readings, sermons and songs make all the difference for encouraging full participation in worship.

Listen Online

Details

Scripture readings, sermons, and songs take up most of the time in a worship service. But it's often what happens in between them that is most telling. Those little words and phrases that welcome guests, introduce songs, and prepare us for prayer make all the difference for encouraging full participation in worship. These phrases are crucial for extending hospitality and for forming congregations for deep engagement with God and each other.

Presented at the 2014 Calvin Symposium on Worship

Recent Media Resources

Culturally Responsive, Trauma-Informed Worship

In today’s diverse and interconnected world, understanding and addressing trauma through a culturally responsive lens is essential for creating inclusive and healing worship experiences. 

August 11, 2025 | 1 min video
Cultivating the Creative Life

What is creativity, and why do we still need to talk about it? Join Sandra McCracken in a conversation on faith, imagination, and creativity. 

August 5, 2025 | 1 min video