Anglican and Episcopal Churches inherit a rich liturgical tradition that is the product of many periods of worship renewal in the history of the church. Worship renewal in Anglican and Episcopal churches today seeks both to maintain the vitality of the historic liturgy and to use the best of contemporary musical and artistic expressions.
As a result of both the autonomy of their local churches and the ethnic diversity among member congregations, diversity is the dominant adjective used to describe the use of music and the arts in American Baptist churches. The size, theological orientation, and geographical location of individual congregations are all factors that influence the music and arts used in individual congregations. National conferences are important in providing vision and leadership for music and the arts.
Zion Methodism continues to use hymn singing as its chief expression of music in worship. Congregational hymnody ranges from traditional hymns to spirituals and gospel hymns. These hymns, along with choral responses, are carefully integrated into the liturgy. Although not traditionally important, banners and dramatic presentations are now included in some worship services.
Music has always been central to the worship of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Richard Allen, the founder of the denomination, provided a hymnal filled with selections that were popular among his people and that reflected the African-American heritage. Subsequent editions of the hymnal have included a wide variety of material. The visual and performing arts have also become a hallmark of worship in the AME church. Colorful robes and stoles and vibrant liturgical dance have contributed significantly to worship.
Gospel song is prominent in the music of Adventist churches. However, the range of music used spans the centuries from traditional masterpieces to contemporary choruses. Churches rely on a variety of instruments, from large pipe organs to electronic synthesizers. The other arts are not generally used in worship, but among a few leading churches banners, hangings, and drama have been introduced.
It behooves us to make Jesus Christ the most important person in our life because He is Lord of all — and He says we’re acceptable, adequate, valuable, and forgivable. If you’re a follower of Christ, let this message penetrate your soul. If you’ve never opened your heart and life to Jesus, why not do it today?
How can we live lives of true gladness; of real happiness, joy, and optimism? I think I can reduce it down to one word: attitude. God will not make us glad, happy, or joyful. Though joy (a deep, abiding peace) is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), it too can be sabotaged because, like happiness, joy depends on the conscious choice we make in response to our circumstances.