Music Ministry Guidelines
This document outlines the guidelines the music ministry will operate within, and also outlines
expectations and ways of working that support the worship of God at St. Peter’s.
1. There is a structure of leadership within the Anglican Church where the Rector has overall
responsibility for worship and music in our church (under the direction of the Bishop). With
ongoing dialogue these responsibilities are delegated to leaders who regularly are involved in
the music ministry with the understanding that music be appropriate for the services and can
accommodate the Rector’s specific requests.
2. Music at St. Peter’s is an important part of our worship. It is both traditional and contemporary. The
leadership desires to encourage, enable and equip people to live out their God-given musical gifts in the
life of the church.
3. The Music Ministry Lead will be the voice on council for those involved in music. This person will
coordinate opportunities for prayer, idea sharing, learning and growth in this ministry through periodic
fellowship and practice meetings open to all those involved in music.
4. There are some specific guidelines within this ministry to be aware of:
a. There are times and seasons in the Anglican Church calendar where the liturgical
requirement for music changes. Please see forthcoming appendix for details.
b. Each leader involved in selecting songs for any services will let the Rector know in
advance the choice of songs. The Rector will communicate any specific changes that will
need to be made.
c. Introductions to music should be part of the flow of worship and should only be done
with the leading of the Spirit, as a brief and heartfelt introduction to the singing. This is
not a requirement, as sometimes just beginning to sing is the best approach. Personal,
Biblical or theological reflections can interfere with this natural flow and are to be
avoided.
d. It is important to be mindful that we are not performing as music teams, but are being
sensitive to the Spirit. We understand that 'worship' means 'congregational worship', not
'music team worship'.
e. Technical details such as renewing the CCLI license, filling out reports, upgrading sound
equipment and technology are the responsibility of the Music Ministry lead or to those
that are delegated to do so. The Music Ministry lead must ensure responsibilities are
carried out.
f. Special services will be coordinated through the Rector and the Music Ministry Lead.
5. In the spirit of learning and improvement both the Rector and the Music Ministry Lead encourage
positive communication on how to improve the music ministry at St. Peter’s.