Summary

2020 Calvin Symposium on Worship | Seminar

Listen Online

Details

Those of us who feel the call of Psalm 33 to write new songs must remember that the psalm also tells us to play skillfully. In this seminar we focused on the skills of songwriting for congregations, digging into what it means to balance inspiration and perspiration. These singer-songwriters spoke about their approaches to creating new texts, new tunes, and the combining of texts and tunes. We also spent some time discussing participants’ song submissions. 

Recent Media Resources

Dreams Realized: Stories from Hispanic Worshiping Communities

In this panel, Hispanic pastors share the learnings and experiences lived by their congregations after completing projects related to the development of their understanding and practices about worship. Together, they represent a variety of Hispanic denominations as well as of "dreams" they were able to realize (learning about the Creeds, bilingual worship, multigenerational worship, worship in non-traditional settings). Their congregations were part of the first cohort of Hispanic congregations receiving "worship grants" under a new initiative CICW launched in July of 2022.  

September 14, 2026 | 67 min video
We Need a Plan! Worship Planning 101

What basic models for worship planning are out there, and which patterns will work best in your context? Join a lively discussion of several worship planning models by the authors and pastors who use them. Bring your questions and suggestions as we learn together. 

September 14, 2026 | 76 min video
Q&A with Worship Leader Kimberly Williams

Join us after the University worship service (chapel) for a conversation with worship leader Kimberly Williams. We will explore topics related to worship leading and planning for diverse congregations, leading teams, songwriting and recording, and mentoring women in ministry.   

September 14, 2026 | 68 min video