Looking for an "Aha" moment in worship? Try the hidden power of a well-structured hymn

Allow ourselves the time and space to Stop. Look. Listen.

As lay worship leaders, we are frequently asked merely to fill in either when the minister is away, church is on hiatus, or there is a need for an extra time of worship. Sometimes that feels like a low bar to reach - just write a short message, fill in appropriate songs and readings, and you're done. You 're probably given a template of the expected service format so you don't even have to plan the outline of worship.

But what if you want to achieve something different? What if you set your sights on bringing your congregation to an unexpected place? Maybe a message of social justice - a good outrage moment? Perhaps a particularly beautiful piece of music that transports one to a higher place? What about a good cry with a well-written testimonial?

Here at WCL, we believe that worship is most powerful when it flows one element into another in a way that challenges us as individuals to be more honest with ourselves, face uncomfortable truths with awareness and hope while finding the motivation to act in radically new ways to build a better world.

We ask ourselves tough questions, leave time for silent awareness, then build through music, ritual and prayer to an affirming sense that we are here together to help each other when times are hard as well as celebrating when things go well. These are elements that move people out of their comfort zones to acts of radical welcome, risk-taking justice, and transformational forgiveness.

Using one hymn or melody as a connective tissue through a service can be very strengthening. Coming back to a tune or words can imbue it with a deeper meaning as different ritual elements are played out.  Singing the first two verses at the beginning of a service, then the last two at the end is not boring, it can be very meaningful - especially if the words work to carry you from inner awareness to outer mission.

Take for instance the beautiful UU hymn #83, "Winds be Still," lyrics by Richard S. Kimball, set to the Wesleyan Christian tune, "Lead Me Lord." The first verse speaks metaphorically of the end of a violent storm and the coming of silence, peace and tranquility.  Then the second verse talks of connecting with the mystery of Life.  Finally, the third verse speaks of illumination, clarity, and the joining of people together to bring forth a new movement of collective action.

Or another example, UU#298, "Wake now my senses," words by Thomas Mikelson set to a traditional Irish melody. Each verse awakens a different aspect: mystical Senses, Reason, Compassion, Conscience, Mission. This hymn follows precisely a natural arc of worship from private awareness to outward mission. How powerful to build a service around this set of lyrics, interpersing it with other chants, songs, anthems, readings, testimony...!  The use of repetition in this case builds the sense of unity toward a common goal and can send your congregation out into the world with renewed commitment and common purpose! Try it, you'll discover a hidden power.