From the General Presbyter

Fake Worship?

I still remember when the phrase “Fake News” was coined. It represented a sentiment that what was being reported was not an actual event, sometimes as the event was unfolding in real time. In some ways it was designed to get folks not to believe what they saw, but on a deeper level, it presented an opportunity for everyone to question what they had come to accept as a “fact.”

Sunday, I attended one of our churches who were using digital worship for hymns and anthems. It was wonderful! I hear some folks may be anxious about incorporating the digital in worship because it may feel like Fake Worship. There is no physical choir or even a pianist, often because of lack of volunteers or budgetary considerations. However, post crisis COVID has gifted the Christian community with delightful and powerful videos that create a meaningful, albeit different worship experience.

Of course, technology has got to work first. And like human beings, it is not perfect. However, it might be a good investment because times are changing. It also might attract folks who appreciate music beyond the organ.

This is the time to expand our definition of what worship looks and sounds like, who participates, and how. Yes, it’s a change, yes it feels weird, yes, we grieve the loss of what once was. But remember friends, what’s most important about worship, is that we “serve the Lord with gladness” together: technology, streaming, Zoom and all!

– Jackie