When most people think of worship, they think of singing. And singing is a great way to worship! But actually, worship has a lot to do with how we live our lives, day after day, at the office, factory, school or even at home. Our attitude in “loving God, loving others, and serving the world” is all about worship. Who or what you worship (and we all worship something) really defines who you are. Followers of Jesus know that things like serving the poor, developing relationships in our community, and developing a relationship with God are all a result of our heart-connection times with our Creator. That is the effect of true worship.
So, what does this have to do with our Sunday services?
Good question. At Forward, we gather together on Sundays at 10:30 am to sing musical praises, read, watch videos and dramas, pray, listen to Biblical teaching, and encourage each other in the process. We present the Bible in a creative but uncomplicated way, with the hope that it will connect with your life. Different people connect with God in different ways, so we know that variety is important. Musically we often use a rhythm section, choir and vocalists, but on other weeks we use an “unplugged”, gentle approach. People who have never gone to church or haven’t gone for years are often surprised at how simple it all is, and sometimes how meaningful. We consider these services “spiritual group preparation” for a week of being out there in the trenches, where real life happens. Going to church encourages us to live lives of worship, in very practical ways.
If you have a passion to serve in Worship Ministries, we are open to newcomers serving in the many aspects of worship at Forward; check the teams listed for a place to fit in, and contact the Team Leader for- more information!
Serving In Worship Ministries
Worship Band & Vocal Team – Gary Sharpe
The Band and Vocal Team lead our musical worship on most Sunday mornings. If you play an instrument that belongs in a rhythm section (drums, bass, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, percussion, keyboards, etc.), and/or have an interest in singing on the Vocal Team please contact Gary Sharpe for a low-stress audition.
Contact: Gary Sharpe
Phone : 519-621-6566 ext. 111
Email: garysharpe@forwardbaptist.ca
Technical Teams – Verne Pharoah
Our techs are the behind the scenes teams who produce our morning worship service and “3:16”, our Sunday night service. Opportunities to serve include the Audio Team, Projection Team, and coming soon, the Lighting Team. Experience is preferred, but not expected, and training is provided. If you have technical skills that you would like to use to serve, please contact Technical Ministries Director Verne Pharoah.
Contact: Verne Pharoah
Phone : 519-621-6566 ext. 108
Email: vernepharoah@forwardbaptist.ca
Worship Choir – Karen Farrelly
Our Worship Choir is a great way to meet other mu-sical people at Forward, and is always open to new-comers. This intergenerational group sings approxi-mately twice a month in the worship service, and works on special concerts during the year. Worship Choir rehearses on Thursdays 7:30-9:00 pm, in the “choir room” (next to the auditorium). No audition is required.
Contact: Karen Farrelly
Phone : 519-895-1518
Email: karenfarrelly@forwardbaptist.ca
Kingdom Kids – Lynn Mullins
“The Kingdom Kids” is a children’s choir that meets on Sunday nights from 5:50 – 6:20 pm in the “choir room” (next to the auditorium). All children in grades 1 through 8 are welcome.
Contact: Lynn Mullins
Phone : 519-219-0890
Email: ldmullins@gmail.com
Drama Team – Christy Ziss
This new team (fall, 2009) will prepare sketches and videos for the worship services, and prepare for drama in special event performances, such as “Illuminate”, for Christmas 2009. If you have acting experience or you have a passion for the dramatic arts, please contact Christy Ziss.
Contact: Christy Ziss
Phone : 519-578-4979
Email: christyziss@forwardbaptist.ca
Creative Team – Gary Sharpe
The Creative Team meets monthly to design service elements such as videos, dramas, songs and interactive activities that make the services more meaningful.
Contact: Gary Sharpe
Phone : 519-621-6566 ext. 111
Email: garysharpe@forwardbaptist.ca
Communion Preparation Team – Bob and Carol Rodgers
Our Communion Prep Team stock and prepare the elements for communion services.
Contact: Bob & Carol Rodgers
Phone : 519-623-8281
Email: bcrodgers@rogers.com
