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. Often the verses will repeat several times. 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 EBC?

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've chosen to remain with this style of worship because we feel it best reflects the overall tone of our congregation and the average church goer. There's nothing wrong with a contemporary service, but we feel that remaining with the Traditional Style helps us in the long run by maintaining close relationships and ties between our members. Plus, many churches that have chosen to go the "Contemporary Route" have seen dramatic swings in attendance from members and visitors which enjoy the easy going music and sermon, but are afraid to lock into a steady, consistent relationship with the church.