Attractional Worship Vs. Charismatic Worship
Even pre-COVID, it was becoming clear that attractional churches were past peak and more charismatic churches were growing. Why is that? Passion over Polish is more captivating to Millennials versus Elders by over 25% according to the Barna Research Group.[1] Millennials long for a deeper expression of the work of the Holy Spirit in their lives.
But the COVID disruption and mass move to online, has meant most churches quickly discovered that what ‘worked’ in terms of in-person weekend services didn’t translate online, and many pivoted to shorter services, less music and more engaging, interactive formats to engage people. It’s still uncertain what the future design of church services online or in-person will reveal, but if this crisis is the accelerator and disruptor many think it is, then a return to a format that had stopped resonating deeply before is likely not the best move.
What’s happened so far in the crisis isn’t innovation, it’s adaptation. Most of the innovation lies ahead. Do not become trapped in your “personal echo chamber”. “Everyone wants it this way” is not an effective response to the profound disruption of this global pandemic.
While in Seminary, my classmates and I would joke about having 3-illiterated points, a poem, prayer, and AMEN! That style of performance was in serious decline pre-COVID. This is a great time to evaluate church along the line of these thoughts …..
- anonymity to a sense of belonging
- engagement of the heart, not just the head.
- more variety of services than three songs and a message
- more passionate expressions of worship
- additional space during the service for prayer
There is one key thought that has emerged during this disruption, People want to know; Can you help me? Do you care about me? Can I trust you? The Gospel has always been about touching a heart before we impress the mind.
[1] Christian Millennials Are Most Likely Generation To Lean Toward Charismatic Worship. https://www.barna.com/research/worship-preferences/ ACCESSED 15 August, 2020.
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