Worship, Music, and Spirituality: For Worship Leaders in Times of Crisis

A friend recently told me that they were exhausted from living in unprecedented times. Of late, I often feel bombarded with statistics about how we have never experienced this level of (insert disaster) before, so a part of me could relate. Another part of me is painfully aware that the “we” is rarely qualified in these statements. There are many in society who have always lived in the fear and instability that these “unprecedented times” have created. We may all be experiencing the same storm, but not in the same way; tragic events affect each person in the community differently, and for many, it can force them to relive past traumas.

Although it is often tempting to avoid discussing such tragedies in worship, we, as worship leaders, know that vital worship is always contextual. It honestly names the reality that we find ourselves in as people of God attempting to boldly proclaim the gospel. When tragedies occur, we bring them to God in community, seeking comfort and guidance on how we can best be God’s agents in this time. If tragedy is a part of our lives, it needs to be a part of our worship.

When navigating such “unprecedented times” with worshipping communities, I encourage us to

• provide warning before naming or addressing things that you know might be traumatic or anxiety inducing and provide a safe and judgment-free way for people to remove themselves and come back if they need to 
• make supports available to community members: remind them of supports in numerous formats, provide a quiet space where people can go if they are feeling overwhelmed, and have folks trained in pastoral care available and present
  encourage a space that welcomes all emotions and, if possible, name some of these emotions for folks
• ensure that the information you share is truthful and age appropriate
• check in on your worship team (choir, Sunday school teachers, ushers, etc.) before the service, tell them how the tragedy will be addressed, and offer them supports, for themselves and to share with the community
• refrain from making assumptions and be abundantly kind to each other, understanding that we do not know what this tragedy may have triggered for those around us
• learn more about how your community can support mental health and wellness
• consult and build relationships with local mental health professionals

As always, worshipping with you,
Alydia
Alydia Smith, Program Coordinator, Worship, Music, and Spirituality