New Around the Mission
July 19, 2010
Equipping for Worship Outside the Box
A group of nearly 60 Anglican Mission worship leaders gathered at the fourth annual Worship Leaders' retreat held June 28-30 in Atlanta, Georgia. Encouraged to “think outside the box,” participants enjoyed the opportunity to connect with one another as well as draw from the richness and diversity within theAM.
Andy and Robin
As Director of Worship Development for theAM, Andy Piercy hosted the worship leaders’ retreat along with Robin Mark, an internationally known worship leader and songwriter from Belfast, Northern Ireland. Other presenters included the Rev. Chip Edgar, Rector of Church of the Apostles, Columbia, South Carolina; Michael Brymer, Worship Leader at St. Andrew’s, Little Rock, Arkansas; and Judy Piercy.
“We drew individuals from a broad spectrum of ages and worship styles,” Andy noted, “and I was especially encouraged to have a vibrant new set of 20-somethings join us.”
Chip Edgar shares on
interpreting liturgy for
our culture.
Each day of the retreat concentrated on a particular focus. Opening with a look at identity, Andy addressed the call to serve one’s congregation through worship. Michael followed up, outlining his personal experience of embracing worship within an Anglican context – “How I learned to speak Anglican.” Day two highlighted the freedom inherent within Anglican Christianity, with Andy offering insight into the “journey of worship,” Chip discussing how we can interpret liturgy in a modern setting and Robin describing the way our culture and heritage influence worship.
“We intentionally structured the three days to include teaching, processing time in small group discussions, fellowship, free time, worship and prayer,” Andy explains. “One of the best times was our entertainment night – it was just a fantastic time together – lots of real talent and crazy fun. Then on the last day, we experienced the power of worship and prayer together,” he added.
Feedback from the discussion groups
Heads down for quiz time concentration
during the annualworship retreat!
Two themes emerged during small group “results-based” conversations – the high value of developing a strong relationship and understanding between each worship leader and his or her senior pastor in order to better serve each congregation and to allow space for God to move through what we do within the rich tradition of the Anglican Church. According to Andy, the group sensed that “the bar had been raised” in their time together and recognized an opportunity within theAM to accomplish something significant as they continue on a journey and move forward in worship.
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“I have attended every worship Leader’s Retreat since its inception, and every year I leave renewed, inspired and encouraged to continue ‘running the race,’” shares one participant. “I meet and share my walk (good and bad) with others facing many of the same challenges. These retreats help me return to placing my trust and faith in God, keeping my eyes on Him. I go home to my church family, to love them and do what God has asked me to do: ‘Feed My sheep’.”
If you would like to be included on the Worship Leaders’ mailing list to receive general information as well as notification for upcoming events, contact Ronda Perry.
Posted By: Cynthia P. Brust
Categories: Recent News
