Service Leader

Guide people’s hearts to exalt and fear God on Sundays
so they care genuinely, grow spiritually, and pray earnestly

Speak clearly to be heard, using the microphone if its in use
Lead all the parts of the service except where it says ‘the priest…’
Prepare yourself and others, so we hardly notice what’s holding things together. Get to know the flow of the particular service.
Arrive at least 15 minutes early. There’s always plenty to get organised!
Know who is responsible for each part of the service. Music, prayer, readings, kids’ church... Are they ready?
If possible, convey the one big idea from the scripture we’re focussing on. Get this ‘big idea’ from the preacher.

Towards the start, include

words from the Bible as your first ones
a welcome to visitors
your name and names of key people. Eg ‘Later on, Angela will lead us in prayer, and Peggy will be taking the children out for kids’ church.’
If there are children present, make it clear that we love having them and don’t mind disruptions

Aim to make things flow:

Flow theologically, for example, through confession, forgiveness, praise, hearing from God, communion, and being sent on mission into the world;
Flow practically from songs > preaching > communion > wrapping up. You might script simple transitions between these parts of the service.
When the rostered person brings up the collection as the song before communion finishes, pray aloud a prayer of thanks/stewardship and then place it to the side.
Record the necessary info in the big book after the service- the type of service; # of people who came along; the name of the preacher.
Take a moment right now and pray that we’ll have visitors and that our public gathering will bring glory to God!

If you’re leading without Paul being there,

Set up the welcome table (only at Williams) with the ‘welcome’ sign, and any necessary paperwork
Also record in the big book the # of communicants if it’s an Extended Communion service.
Re-read the latest parish update/ newsletter, and highlight in the Notices spot the 3 or 4 most important things.

All