An introduction to church music based on biblical and theological principles regarding the use of music in worship. It prepares the student to lead congregations in applying music within their cultural context utilizing the breadth of musical possibilities available for vital worship. Students will learn the practice of making music selections that contribute to the overall design and purpose of the worship service. 

The following intended learning outcomes will be achieved by this course:

1. To engage in theological reflection in order to establish sound biblical principles regarding the use of music in worship.
2. To think critically about current musical issues in order to provide intelligent leadership and direction in the local church within one’s cultural context.
3. To examine many types of congregational song in order to be acquainted with the breadth of musical possibilities available for vital worship.
4. To apply worship music selections to the overall worship design in order to utilize worship music according to its appropriate function.

The following are Competencies for Ministry as outlined in the Sourcebook on Ordination USA that will be addressed in this course:

1. CP11 Ability to envision, order, and participate in contextualized, theologically grounded worship and to develop and lead appropriate services for special occasions (i.e. wedding, funeral, baptism, and Lord's Supper).
2. CP19 Ability to prepare and lead a music ministry that is biblically sound, utilizing appropriate techniques and skills demonstrating cultural sensitivity.
3. CP20 Ability to assess contemporary approaches to church music in light of enduring theological and contextual perspectives.

There are no prerequisites for this course.