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Luke Jackson here from the Churchfront Worship and Tech podcast. In our latest episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kelsey Mcginnis, a worship correspondent for Christianity Today. Our conversation delved into the changing landscape of music ministry, the challenges of nurturing young music talents in churches, and the evolving nature of worship music and leadership.
The Challenge of Cultivating Young Music Ministry Talents
One of the key topics we discussed was the apparent lack of interest among the youth in music ministry. Kelsey pointed out that historically, passion for music ministry often began at a young age, but there seems to be a current shortfall. She pondered whether this is a temporary issue or indicative of a broader shift in the musical culture of churches. Kelsey remains hopeful that a renewed interest in choral elements could foster a more inclusive and participatory approach in churches.
Kelsey’s Journey and Insights into Church Music
Kelsey shared her journey from being a child of church musicians to becoming a prominent voice in worship music journalism. Her work focuses on musical worship, congregational singing, and the broader Christian music industry. She emphasized the importance of reporting that not only informs but also serves the church meaningfully.
The Evolution of Worship Arts and Music Education
We reflected on how the worship industry has evolved, noting a shift from a focus on musical skills to a more holistic understanding of worship, including its theological and community aspects. Kelsey observed a decline in interest in formal music education for worship leaders, possibly due to the changing requirements of churches and the cost of higher education.
The State of Worship Leadership
Our conversation took a turn towards the changing dynamics of worship leadership. Kelsey highlighted the trend of churches not requiring formal music degrees for worship leaders and the implications of this shift. We discussed the importance of having a vision-casting leader in music ministry and the risks of losing spiritual leadership in the increasingly plug-and-play music set up in modern churches.
The Phenomenon of Men Not Singing in Church
A significant part of our discussion revolved around why men might be less inclined to sing in church. Kelsey challenged the trope that contemporary church music is too effeminate, suggesting deeper issues related to expectations of male voices and the discomfort of voice changes during adolescence.
Trends and Observations in Worship Music
Kelsey is currently intrigued by how social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram influence contemporary worship music. She notes a growing trend of worship influencers, which could shape the future landscape of worship music and ministry.
Final Thoughts
Our insightful conversation with Kelsey Mcginnis provided a deep dive into the current state and future trends of music ministry and worship leadership. Her observations and research offer valuable insights for church leaders, musicians, and anyone interested in the evolving landscape of church music and worship.
Stay tuned for more insights and discussions on the Church Front Worship and Tech podcast. Don’t forget to follow Kelsey Mcginnis on her social media platforms for more of her work and insights into worship music and leadership.
Until next time, this is Luke Jackson signing off.
One Response
There are several videos online where there are ALL men singing songs that haven’t been in a church once since the Dark Ages. Why? Because they are all sang by Men only and they are bleak. As bleak as the times and social landscape of today’s culture. Call it the Halo (game) effect where the very opening of the game soundtrack harkens back to Gregorian Chants. The Tutonic Knights of old that are currently given only a footnote of the church are looked at and treated likewise with unease or condemnation.