Emily R. Brink Choirs play very different roles in various denominations and traditions. This article describes three different types of choirs based on their role in the worship service, commending an approach that integrates the choir’s contribution within the structure of the whole worship service. Although written from a Reformed perspective, the insights found here have applications for all traditions.
Strong congregational singing has long marked common worship in the Christian Reformed Church. Psalms only were sung in the Christian Reformed Church until 1934. Since then the Psalter Hymnal has included hymns from every period of history. Today, congregations are using a greater variety of song and instrumental accompaniment in services designed with flexible liturgical forms. And once-austere buildings and liturgy are now characterized by an increasing use of visual and decorative arts.