1855 Knollcrest Circle SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546-4402 USA
On the campus of Calvin University and Calvin Theological Seminary
© 2024 Calvin Institute of Christian Worship
When the contemporary worship movement began in the 1960s or 70s or 80s or 90s (it started at different times in various places), it was often motivated by a desire to make worship more relevant—more expressive of the needs, hopes, and fears of rising generations of worshipers in a variety of cultural contexts. In the last decade or more, there has been a noticeable shift in the blogs, op-eds, and manifestos of several contemporary worship leaders, pastors, publishers, and teachers who are now calling for contemporary worship that is not only relevant, but also formative: worship that challenges believers to “grow in grace and in knowledge of our Lord and Savior.” The result is an outpouring of not only new songs, but also new kinds of songs; not only new services and publications, but new genres of services and publications.
This “turn toward the formative” is something to celebrate! But it is not easy. For this turn challenges us to rethink the consumer mentality that shapes so much of church life, even the church life of those of us who protest it!
A podcast from Calvin University featuring thoughtful leaders discussing key topics related to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the context of Christian life and witness.
Music and prayer are prominent elements in worship liturgy. How does the culture of the worship community influence these worship practices? How should we engage culture and yet be countercultural in our practice of music and prayer? Engage with this panel from four continents as we explore how cultural values form and inform worship practices.
Congregations, pastors, and parents/caregivers have many opportunities to join together in worship and prayer practices that more intentionally engage children and help them come to know and love God and grow in faith together. Panelists will discuss ways to intentionally create intergenerational community in which people of all ages, including children, are welcomed as full participants whose participation enriches the community and gives praise to God.
A podcast from Calvin University featuring thoughtful leaders discussing key topics related to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the context of Christian life and witness.
Music and prayer are prominent elements in worship liturgy. How does the culture of the worship community influence these worship practices? How should we engage culture and yet be countercultural in our practice of music and prayer? Engage with this panel from four continents as we explore how cultural values form and inform worship practices.
Congregations, pastors, and parents/caregivers have many opportunities to join together in worship and prayer practices that more intentionally engage children and help them come to know and love God and grow in faith together. Panelists will discuss ways to intentionally create intergenerational community in which people of all ages, including children, are welcomed as full participants whose participation enriches the community and gives praise to God.
What is the role of preaching in situations of deep conflict and division? How can preaching participate in the Christian call to peacemaking? This panel will explore the connections between gospel preaching and peacemaking efforts.
