When You Need to Ask a Worship Team Member to Step Down

This blog post is tough. Nobody likes to have difficult conversations, and nobody likes to fire anyone.

But sometimes it’s necessary. And if it’s done in the proper way, can be good for everyone.

One of the tensions every worship leader faces is caring for the culture of the team and caring for each individual. When those lines are blurred, everything becomes more difficult.

But the word “leader” is in your job description for a reason. That doesn’t give you license to be a jerk. You need to love, care for and “pastor” your team.

But it does necessitate some difficult decision-making. Get your comments ready. This conversation will need a deep-dive.

Let’s State the Obvious

These “top reasons” I speak of are on the more subtle side of the spectrum.

Obviously, if a vocalist is dropping f-bombs on the congregation during worship, they need to step down.

If a drummer is using his drum sticks to physically abuse the band, he may need to step down.

If your keyboard player keeps leg-sweeping the pastor and pushing him off the stage, he needs to go.

If a guitar player is playing with his teeth and lighting his strings on fire, he may need more professional help.

I think you get my point!

A Few Quick Thoughts

• Realize that working with people will always have its tensions. Having this understanding helps you adjust your expectations.
• Never forget your calling to love, care for, lead, pastor and shepherd your worship team. They’re not just a means to make you look good.
• One, or even a few, violations isn’t the point. I’ll ask someone to step down if there is an ongoing pattern. And that isn’t ever a full, final “see you later.” Love them. Care for them.
• Massive confrontation must follow other, numerous, smaller conversations.
• Prioritize clear, constant communication. When people know what is expected, they will most often do it.
• Does your team know that you care about them? That’s important for confrontations like this.

Are you ready? Let’s go.

Click here to read more.
Source: Church Leaders