Adult vocal group, teenagers are welcome, initial audition and interview is required
Rehearsal time: Wednesdays 8 pm
Rehearsal place: Room 339
Leaders: Kelly Dismore
The Scripture speaks of the continuous freshness and newness of praise (Psalm 96:1-9), just as the great works and mercies of the Lord are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23).
The purpose of the group is three-fold:
- To provide a regular venue for lead vocalists (see description for "Lead Vocalists") to study new worship songs for congregational worship and present them to the church
- To function as an independent ensemble in presenting special music and offerings, helping to facilitate a passionate participatory worship experience for the congregation, (working together with the Band, Worship Choir, Orchestra, Dance and Drama Ministries)
- To provide a nurturing small group ministry environment, fostering community involvement and support for each member
In all of these activities our first goal is to continually offer the sacrifice of praise to the Living God (Romans 12:1-2), embracing musical excellence and diligence in preparation as well as a strong spiritual emphasis on prayer and worship. The members of the Worship Ensemble are to model the purpose for praise and worship and help equip the First Free worshippers to live godly lives driven by the power of the Holy Spirit. Singers may enter the group by vocal audition, interview and personal testimony. Small teams of lead vocalists (trios, quartets, etc.) will be formed from within the ensemble (as well as other choral groups) for the purpose of driving vocally various portions of our musical worship.
When participating on Sunday mornings, the Worship Ensemble will gather at 7:45 am for warm up followed by a run-through of the worship service in the main sanctuary or in the space designated for worship in other services. Since our two main Sunday morning services are identical, participation in both services is required for all small teams. Additionally, small teams will be scheduled for other worship services running simultaneously during the morning time. When the entire Worship Ensemble ministers and sings together, most of the time the singing will be scheduled before the preaching of the Word and the group can be dismissed from the front area before the message. There may be times, such as occasional communion services, when the whole ensemble may need to stay through the entire worship service.
In addition to the practical side of serving God and His people, our goal is maturing in our relationship with the Lord and strengthening one another. A community prayer time will be offered at the end of each rehearsal emphasizing the atmosphere of a "small church" and an environment of a warm and caring discipleship group.
See, the former things have taken place, and new things I declare; before they spring into being I announce them to you. Sing to the LORD a new song, his praise from the ends of the earth. (Isaiah 42:9-10)
