Traditional vs. Contemporary Services
Question:
East Baptist Church of Denison, Texas says
that it's "..a Traditional Southern Baptist Church".
What does this mean?
Answer:
This is a very good question. We're happy you asked! Worship
styles can affect everything from the music choices and selections,
as well as how and with what instruments they are played with.
Worship Styles are also affected by how the preacher, pastor or
minister present God's Word or the message. In the "world of
worship" services, there are basically two types of worship styles.
"Traditional" and "Contemporary"
Here's a breakdown of the two:
Contemporary:
This means that there is most likely no choir involved. Instead
you'll have a "praise & worship team". This team will usually
consist of a singer or two, a guitar or keyboard, a set of drums,
and in larger churches all of the above. The music will usually
consist of newer styles written by newer artists. On occasions "oldies" are included. In
larger churches overhead screens will display the lyrics to assist
the congregation in singing. The preacher, pastor, or minister will
speak afterwards. Also, the terms preacher, pastor, and minister are
interchangeable. This is also true with Traditional styles. After
the preacher speaks sometimes an invitation or opportunity to speak
with the pastor or a member of church staff about what you heard
will be given. This is your opportunity to ask Christ into your
heart with the ease of having a knowledgeable member of the
Christian Faith with you.
Traditional:
In a Traditional Worship service you will typically have a choir and
a choir leader or director. The choir will typically sing in unison
with the congregation using hymnals. The hymnal, by the way, is that
book which is usually sitting right next to you or directly in front
of you during the service. The song selection can vary, but will
usually consist of more traditional hymns. Some that come to mind
are "I'll Fly Away", "Amazing Grace", or "Just As I Am". A piano,
organ, or keyboard will assist as an accompaniment. Again as stated
before, the preacher will present God's Message afterwards. When he
is finished, he will call the Invitation. It's called the Invitation
because you are being invited either to accept Christ into your
heart, to join the church, or in some cases rededication of your
life to God and Christ.
Which type of Service reflects East Baptist, Denison?
East Baptist Church of Denison, Texas is a Traditional Southern
Baptist Church. We have a choir, a choir director (named Mike), and
a pianist (named Ilene). We, as in the congregation, sing
traditional hymns with the choir. As a member of the congregation
you have access to a hymnal to follow along and sing. After the
choir has finished singing, we then have "Special Music". Basically,
this is just a solo sang by a member of the choir. It can consist of
something more traditional or contemporary. Afterwards, our pastor,
Bro. Brett Castle, preaches. When he's finished we have our
Invitation. Afterwards we adjourn for the either the afternoon or
evening.
We have chosen to remain with the "Traditional" style of worship because we feel it
best reflects the overall tone of our congregation.
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