New 2/3 Service Idea
Greetings from South Central Indiana! Jeff asked me to share about a new service concept we’ve developed and are finally launching November 4, 2007, here at Grandview COB.
We’ve observed that with a blended service format, no one ever is very happy, yet congregations strongly resist two services for various reasons. We believe God has given us an inspired solution and are interested in connecting with others who may be on the same path.
Basically, the first third of the service is strictly traditional worship with responsive reading, hymns, etc. The second third is the sermon. The third third is the contemporary worship elements. Thus, those wanting a traditional service format attend the first 2/3 of the service. Those wanting a contemporary service format attend the second 2/3 of the service. Everyone is gathered together for the sermon, so they still feel like one body. We will have a transition with a count-down video and greeting one another before the sermon section. We will transition after the sermon with ministry time and some transitional songs/videos before moving into contemporary praise time. Anyone can stay for the whole service as well.
Children’s Sunday School and Children’s Church are moving into a format of 1/2 hour blocks so children can arrive or leave at transitional times. Adult Sunday School coordinates with the traditional 2/3. Weeknight small group meetings are offered for those attending the contemporary 2/3.
Offerings during both first and third worship times (finance loves us for this!). Church family events like baptism or baby dedication will take place during the middle sermon third.
We’re basically a traditional congregation that needs to grow. We’re very excited about the possibilities. We’re convinced God hasn’t given this idea to just us though, and would love to hear from others who may be doing something similar.
Blessings,
Lisa G. Yoder
22 Oct 2007 Lisa Yoder
Hi Lisa,
Thanks for sharing this concept. I will be very interested in hearing how it goes for you! It is an interesting concept.
I agree that blend is NEVER best… ALWAYS leaves some foks upset! We just launched a second service that is traditional as we are contemporary mostly…. previous we had one hymn and the rest contemporary songs and never did litanies or other traditional elements. Now we have both a traditional and contemporary and our attendance is up almost 50%!
God’s blessings as you launch this new concept! Be sure to report back your learnings! THANKS!