Resource Search Results

Jonathan A. Powers on Teaching Hymns Appropriate to Context

If your congregation experiences hymn singing as dull and lifeless, then try Jonathan A. Powers’ advice on finding, introducing, and teaching hymns that will resonate with your worshiping community.

Conversation | March 06, 2023

Katie J. Graber on Singing with Cultural Appreciation, Not Appropriation

Some congregations worry that singing songs outside their own tradition might be inauthentic or offensive. Ethnomusicologist Katie J. Graber gives reasons for using worship songs from other cultures and eras—and how to do so with proper appreciation and attribution.

Conversation | February 28, 2023

Kenneth L. Wallace Jr. on Multiethnic Worship

Multiethnic worship includes but is much more than singing songs from diverse cultures. An ethnodoxologist who identifies as African American Choctaw Pawnee says you need to know your own culture’s stories and gifts to share with and receive from Christians in other cultures.

Conversation | October 25, 2022

Navajo Christians Build Relationships through Scripture and Culture

Window Rock Christian Reformed Church used a Vital Worship Grant project to connect with more people by engaging scripture in ways reflective of Navajo cultural practices.

Feature Story | December 01, 2021

Kai Ton Chau on Worship and Culture Worldwide

Kai Ton Chau teaches Calvin University students to articulate different cultural values so they can discuss and appreciate diverse forms of Christian worship. You can do something similar in your school, church, or worship context to build cultural intelligence among Christians.

Conversation | September 27, 2021

Emmanuel Olusola Fasipe on Oral Culture and Christian Worship

Christians who see themselves as "people of the book" read about the Word made flesh. They may treasure "I Love to Tell the Story" in their hymnals yet feel skeptical of Christians who prefer to express and pass on faith through oral culture. A Nigerian worship scholar explains the benefits of oral practices in church worship.

Conversation | July 26, 2021

Emmanuel Olusola Fasipe on Yoruba Baptist Indigenous Choruses

The most recent Yoruba Baptist Hymnal includes Orin Idaraya, the indigenous choruses relevant to one of Nigeria's largest people groups. Learning how a Nigerian music scholar analyzed these short songs can help your congregation evaluate whether it offers a balanced musical diet in worship.

Conversation | July 26, 2021