Shepherding the Team: The Beauty and Challenge of Leading Worship Volunteers
If choosing the right songs is a sacred responsibility, leading the people who play them is an even greater one. As a worship pastor, my job isn’t just about crafting sound—it’s about cultivating hearts. And in most churches, that means working with volunteers.
Volunteers are the lifeblood of Sunday mornings. They show up early, stay late, and pour out their gifts not for a paycheck, but out of love for Jesus and His church. That kind of offering is priceless. But anyone who’s served in ministry long enough knows: it can also be messy, stretching, and—sometimes—very hard.
Let’s talk about it.
1. Their Hearts Are Gold
I’ve worked with volunteers who’ve just come off a 60-hour workweek but still show up at 7am with a smile. I’ve seen moms juggling toddlers while still making time to rehearse. I’ve watched teenagers learning chord charts like their life depends on it. These people aren’t just giving their talents—they’re giving their hearts.
And that’s what makes it sacred. They serve out of love, not obligation. And it’s my job to protect, nurture, and honor that love.
2. But It’s Not Always Easy
Volunteers are human. They’ll miss cues. They’ll show up late. They might cancel last minute. Sometimes they need more grace than skill, and sometimes they bring more passion than polish.
You’ll face burnout. Miscommunication. Hurt feelings. Moments when you wonder, “Wouldn’t it be easier with a professional team?” But here’s the truth: the church isn’t meant to run like a corporate machine—it’s meant to grow like a family (God's family). And family is always a little messy.
3. Training Is Not Optional
Just because someone has a good heart doesn’t mean they don’t need guidance. One of the biggest mistakes I made early on was assuming volunteers would just “figure it out.” But leading people well means investing in them.
Hold rehearsals that actually teach, not just run throughs. Provide resources. Clarify expectations. Offer feedback—and receive it humbly in return. Developing volunteers is part of discipleship.
And yes, it takes time. But if you want a team that’s both excellent and healthy, training is the bridge between the two.
4. Correct with Compassion, Lead with Love
You will have hard conversations. You’ll need to talk about attitude, preparation, even personal issues. Do it gently, but don’t avoid it. Avoiding discomfort doesn’t preserve unity—it erodes trust.
Correct in private. Affirm in public. Always ask, “What does love require of me as a leader right now?”
5. Celebrate More Than You Critique
It’s easy to focus on the sound mix or that one clunky transition. But take a step back: your people are here. They’re worshiping, growing, learning, and giving. Celebrate that. Speak life. Send the text. Write the card. Thank them from the stage.
Volunteers who feel seen and valued will go farther than you ever imagined.
Final Thoughts: We’re Building People, Not Just Playlists
At the end of the day, leading worship isn’t just about what happens on stage. It’s about what God is doing in people. Your volunteers are not tools to accomplish a service—they’re souls to be nurtured, leaders to be developed, and friends to be loved.
When you lead them well, you don’t just build a stronger team—you build a stronger church.
— A Fellow Worship Pastor in the Trenches
PS. If you enjoyed this blog post, check out the first part here.