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Clergy & Lay Leadership: Church Musicians' Reading Group

The purpose of the church musicians' reading group is to help church musicians explore themes of vocation and ministry through the reading and discussion of books related to worship and church music. This group is designed to provide intellectual stimulation and personal enrichment by allowing participants to engage in significant conversation regarding the nature and purpose of worship and the role of music within it. In addition to book discussion, time for prayer and sharing of resources will be part of this monthly gathering.

Fall 2006-Spring 2007

Beginning in Oct. 2006, the church musicians' reading group will begin reading Discerning the Spirits: A Guide to Thinking About Christian Worship Today (Eerdmans, 2003). Christian worship in North America has undergone great change in recent years. But change always brings uncertainty -- and at times even causes division -- over what constitutes "authentic worship." This important book reviews a wide variety of current perspectives and offers a fresh outlook on the contemporary practice of Christian worship. In order to provide the widest, most insightful discussion on present-day worship practices yet assembled, the authors gathered a team of church musicians, ministers, worship leaders, and educators from eight church traditions. Discerning the Spirits is the fruit of their work. Shaped by the wisdom of men and women like Marva Dawn, Justo Gonzalez, C. Michael Hawn, and John Witvliet, this book broadens today's "worship wars" into a bigger, richer discussion that moves from arguments over musical tastes to good thinking about the overall purpose of worship in relation to church life and God himself. Sidebar articles and quotes are meant to draw readers and study groups into dialogue on these issues. Whether one plays a leadership role in church worship or is simply grappling with questions about it, Discerning the Spirits is a must-read.

The group meets on Thursdays from 7-8:30 a.m in Seeley Mudd Chapel. Reading group dates are:

  • Oct. 12
  • Nov. 9
  • Dec. 14
  • Feb. 8
  • March 15
  • April 12
  • May 10

    A book and light breakfast will be provided to each participant at no cost. All church musicians and worship leaders are invited to join. If you are interested in participating, or if you desire more information, please contact Ben Brody.

Information from 2005 Reading Group

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