The Commitment to Worship Ministry
@
Suncoast Cathedral
*Individuals interested in joining the arts ministry at Suncoast Cathedral must fill out a
Suncoast Music Ministry Application and submit it for consideration.
THE CALLING
…Before I was born the LORD called me; from my birth He has made mention of my name. He made my mouth like a sharpened sword, in the shadow of His hand He hid me; he made me into a polished arrow and concealed me in His quiver. Isaiah 49:1-2
We believe those in the music dpt. are called to this ministry. Isaiah (as quoted above) did not become a prophet for a short time to see if he would like it. God called him, gave him a spiritual gift, and then sent him before the people. It is the same with us.
Serving God by being in the Music Ministry is a great blessing (Numbers 8:10-11). It is a gift (Romans 12:7). It is a wonderful heritage (Numbers 3:45).
We encourage you to seek God’s wisdom in this decision to be a part of the music ministry. “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Proverbs 15:22.
CHARACTER COMMITMENTS
In order to have an effective music ministry at Suncoast that is true to our Levitical calling, we must strive for excellence in everything we do, say and minister.
Please keep in mind that your individual appearance, behavior and character are a direct reflection of the music ministry both on and off the platform. We expect from you the same commitment to excellence in these areas that we ask from all leaders.
In Mark 7:14-23, Jesus explains to us the importance of our hearts’ condition. It is not the external things that defile a man, but rather the things that come from the heart. We can appear holy outwardly and yet still be unclean in our hearts.
Our motives, thoughts and intentions must be pure to walk in the anointing and ministry to which we have been called. The Apostle Paul exhorts us to “walk worthy of the vocation to which you are called” (Ephesians 4:1). Let’s look now at the areas that particularly demand our attention:
UNITY - Ephesians 4:3 says that we should endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. This means that you are committed to your brothers and sisters who share in this ministry. We covenant together to use the principles found in Matthew 18:15-18 to settle any dispute in a timely manner. We will NOT talk about another brother or sister in a negative way.
SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY - We recognize Pastor Tim & Janet Suddreth and our pastoral staff as the leadership of the church. We accept the challenge of Hebrews 13:7 “to remember those who have the rule over us.” We also recognize the leadership appointments within the music ministry and will minister according to their direction.
SEXUAL PURITY - Those members who are unmarried will have a commitment to sexual abstinence until marriage. Those members who are married will commit to absolute faithfulness to their spouses. All members will commit to walking in purity of heart, mind and speech.
DISCIPLINE - Proverbs 10:17 says, “He who heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.” If you are easily offended or perceive correction as rejection, this greatly inhibits your ability to grow as a Christian.
FAITHFULNESS - Your integrity requires your presence at the scheduled times of ministry. As a team, we depend on each other. Your absence is felt when you cannot be there. We trust that if God has called you and your heart is here, that you will make every effort to be faithful in your prompt attendance to rehearsals and services.
ACCOUNTABILITY - You will be responsible to the Worship Pastor, Team Leaders and your fellow music ministry members for your presence.
EXCELLENCE - Ministering with your voice or instrument skillfully, being excellent in your appearance, attitude and behavior.
GOD’S WORD - Spending time in God’s word is the key to obtaining the greatness that God has for us. As a team, we trust that you will make every effort to commit to God’s word everyday.
WORSHIP & PRAYER – In 2 Chronicles 20, the Lord defeated the enemy as Judah and Jerusalem sang praises in worship to the Lord! As we commit to worship and pray to our Creator daily, not only will we be ready for any “darts” that come our way, but also will be fully prepared to minister from the platform.
ATTENDANCE
We ask each member to make at least a six-month commitment to this ministry. Those making such a commitment should understand the seriousness of such a commitment.
You will need to consult with the leadership in the event that circumstances make it necessary to obtain permission to be excused from this commitment for an extended period of time.
Long-term excused absences would include pregnancy, work, sickness, serious illness or other life-changing situations. Long-term absences will be granted for a period of either six months or 12 months depending on the circumstances. Again, please speak to the leadership as we will want to pray for you during such time, standing in faith with you.
We ask all music ministry members to minister at all scheduled services, attend weekly rehearsals, as well as other special events.
On Sunday mornings, all scheduled members need to be on the platform, ready to minister, at the scheduled time. The Choir assists in the praise & worship time.
ALL PRAISE TEAM, CHOIR, BAND, SOUND, LIGHT, AND GRAPHICS MEMBERS ARE EXPECTED TO TAKE THE REHEARSAL TIMES SERIOUSLY. THIS MEANS YOU MUST BE PUNCTUAL, LISTEN ATTENTIVELY, AND WORK TOGETHER AS A TEAM. Please refrain from cell phone usage during rehearsals, services & while on platform.
Details for other events will be announced at the appropriate time. You will be required to consult with your ministry leader in the event that circumstances make it necessary to be excused from a rehearsal or a worship event.
You are expected to be faithful to church, even when you are not specifically scheduled to minister. Leaving early or only being present for “your part” of the service is strongly discouraged.
ABSENCES/TARDIES
If you are unable to attend a rehearsal or worship service and have a valid reason, please fill out an “Intended Absence Form” prior to your absence.
If an emergency prevents you from filling out an “Intended Absence Form”, please immediately contact your ministry leader as soon as you know you will be absent.
You must be in place on the platform or the booth by your designated time on Sunday mornings. If a choir member misses a rehearsal in which the choir learned a new song, it is their responsibility to be adequately prepared to minister with that new song. “Not having the right colors to wear” is never an excuse (see color chart disclaimer).
The same applies to a tardy (responsibility for preparation). Because much of the music we learn at rehearsals is used repeatedly, we ask that you attend a rehearsal, even if you anticipate an absence the following Sunday.
*These are intended to ensure that each member worships with excellence.
PLATFORM POLICY
When the worship portion of the service is complete, please be careful upon re-entry into the sanctuary. You can take time to refresh yourself but please be prompt to return to the service. Also, we need to be courteous to whomever is ministering at the particular moment (i.e., don’t return to your seat during a solo or a special presentation. Wait at the back of the sanctuary b/f drawing attention to yourself.)
DRESS CODE
Women are asked to wear dresses, minimum of knee-length, or slacks with dress shoes (no tennis shoes/casual shoes). Slits in skirts should only be to the knee or a few inches above.
Jeans and dresses/skirts with halter-type tops, low-cut tops, spaghetti-strap tops and single-shoulder tops are not permitted. Regarding sundress type dresses or tops, they should not be “strappy” or back-less. Though sleeveless is allowed here in sunny Florida. If you desire to wear this type of dress/top (sundress), please have a shrug, jacket or sweater to cover the shoulders.
Men are asked to wear pressed dress shirts and slacks with dress shoes. Jackets and/or ties are permitted but not required.
Tennis shoes are not permitted either. Hair can be any length as long as it is kept neat and clean. Neatly trimmed beards are permissible.
For Choir and Musicians:
In consideration of others, please refrain from wearing strong cologne, perfume or perfumed lotions/products as they may interfere with one’s ability to sing and/or play an instrument.
CHURCH MEMBERSHIP
Participation in platform ministry means; you must either already be a member of Suncoast Cathedral or actively seeking the process of church membership. A vital aspect to church membership is the giving of tithes and offerings. Your tithe is a guidepost of your worship with your finances. By joining the music ministry you are declaring that this is your church home and you will be giving your tithes back to the Lord in this house, along with offerings as the Lord leads.
CHOIR MEMBER NUMBER
Each choir member will be assigned a number which corresponds with your music folder.
AUDITIONS
We encourage an initial voice check for choir members. This is to determine where you are going to be most suitably placed. Every potential member, singer or musician is encouraged to attend 2 rehearsals before they can minister on the platform. The purpose of this is to ensure your commitment, as well as your familiarity with the music. This is intended to be a protective measure for both you and the music dpt.
AGE REQUIREMENTS
The minimum age requirement for the choir is fourteen years old with reliable transportation. The minimum age requirement for the band and all other departments is sixteen years old. Those under eighteen will also need their parents’ permission to join.
PRAISE TEAM SINGERS
These singers are recommended and selected by the music leadership to minister on the platform. Selection of this group of leaders is based upon the individual’s relationship with the Lord, heart, attitude, character, vocal skills, and opening within the team.
SOUND & LIGHT TECHNICIANS
The purpose of the sound and light technicians is to help create an atmosphere and environment conducive to the worship experience. They ensure proper sound, volume and lighting during this experience.
GRAPHICS PRESENTATION TEAM
This team coordinates the graphics presentation ministry for the choir and congregation so that the entire congregation can be involved in the worship.
Shelly Korrot – 522-2171 (office)
shelly@suncoastcathedral.com
Suncoast Cathedral, 2300 62nd Ave. N.
St. Petersburg, FL 33702