Prelude Talk

Recently there was a lively discussion on Methodist Musicians Listserv about the musical prelude in the worship service, what takes place at that time, and frustration with congregations who continue to talk and visit with one another. Here are a few of the observations and discussion points raised:

  • The prelude is a time for people to become quiet, to meditate and pray, and to prepare their hearts individually for the worship of God.
  • People continue to talk, seemingly oblivious to the intent and leading of the music.
  • If the music's volume is increased, so is the volume of the talking.
  • The prelude is an offering to God by the musician(s) on behalf of the people, except that by their continued talking the people demonstrate no desire to make such an offering.

And here are some of the suggestions that were made to address the problem, along with a few of my own:

  • The pastor or worship leader should end the talking by giving the announcements, followed by instructions to begin the worship service by quieting our hearts and minds with the musical prelude.
  • Begin the service with a formal greeting such as "The Lord be with you" — "AND ALSO WITH YOU" printed in the bulletin, followed by the prelude.
  • Change the name of the prelude since it indicates that it is something that precedes the real worship, thus indicating it is less important and may be ignored. Enter it into the bulletin as Organ Voluntary, Music Meditation, or something similar.
  • Include a statement in the bulletin that this is a time for prayer and meditation.
  • Put a sign outside the sanctuary door calling for silence upon entering.
  • Write a church newsletter article about it.
  • Ask the pastor to address it as part of the sermon.
  • Musicians should avoid the temptation to play louder and louder to cover up the volume of the talking, as this only incites the people to talk louder and louder. Plan music that is quiet and meditative and keep it so, regardless of the volume of the talking. A loud Bach toccata may be inspiring, but I question whether it promotes quiet, still meditation and private prayer. It will also provide a safe cover for talking.
  • Include some ritual action at the start of the prelude to further indicate that it is time to cease talking and begin the service. This may include the chiming of the hour, lighting of candles by acolytes, the entrance and seating of the worship leaders and pastor, or the processing and seating of the choir. This visual signal adds weight and significance to the role of the music. Of course, if those who enter and are seated then begin to talk among themselves, wave to their friends and family in the congregation, read their bulletins, or do anything other than adopt an attitude of preparation and prayer, then they have given permission for the people to continue to do the same.
  • Intentionally bring the people's talking to a close by having them stand and sing a familiar chorus or stanza of a favorite hymn, followed by announcements, formal greeting, and prelude.
  • The musician(s) must be diligent in their own attitude and intent. They must be certain they have selected and prepared the best music for that Sunday, service, or occasion. They must offer their music to God as an act of personal devotion and celebration and not as a performance. They must understand their role of bringing the people into an attitude of worship and meditation, whether the people allow themselves to be brought along or not. They must not demonstrate frustration or anger in this role of worship leader.

We should recognize, as does The United Methodist Book of Worship (pp. 16-17), that conversation and fellowship are important parts of worship. As the people gather, it is natural and good for them to greet one another; share joys, concerns, and news of the week; and inquire into each other's well-being. As The Book of Worship says, "This renewing of community is a part of our entrance into congregational worship and should not be discouraged." We must plan time and opportunity for this to take place as they gather.

If you decide to implement some means of making the prelude a more important part of the service, or of dealing with the congregation's neverending fellowship, do it in conversation with the pastor, worship leaders, and congregational leaders. Commit to the same course of action over a period of weeks, even months — it will eventually take hold. Do it in a spirit and attitude of love and grace.

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