Worship Leader Track
The New Life School of Worship is divided into four modules. Modules one, three, and four are class-based, and module two is project-based. (See Weekly Schedule for class times.)
Module 1: Class Module (10 1/2 weeks)
Sep. 11 - Nov. 23; Thanksgiving Break Nov. 24 - Dec. 1
The History of Christianity and Culture is designed to give students an understanding of how the developments in western civilization over the last 2000 years have affected our expression of worship. We will study social, political, economic, religious, and technological advances that played a role in shaping church history. This class will also examine the landscape of worship in the 21st century, exploring the philosophical and popular undercurrents or our culture, and forming worship models that will help inspire and facilitate worship in our day.
Biblical Foundations of Worship provides an overview of worship in the Bible, throughout both Old and New Testaments. We will examine the types and forms in the tabernacle, temple, and feasts, as well as the fulfillment of those roles in the new covenant, including the concept of a lifestyle of worship.
Christian Growth and Development covers some of the core spiritual ideas that shape New Life's philosophy of ministry. Topics will include practical training in living the Christian life; including prayer, fasting, and worship.
Ministry Leadership covers serving volunteers as a leader and encouraging them in their ministry as musical servants themselves.
Worship Choir provides a first-hand experience in the New Life Church choir. Students rehearse each Thursday and sing for Sunday morning services.
Intensives
Dec. 2 - Dec. 21;
Module 2: Class Module (10 1/2 weeks)
Jan. 6 - Mar. 15; Spring Break Mar. 16 - Mar. 23
Ministry Communication addresses the most basic element of the worship ministry, including auditions and team building. It will also address some of the nuances and subtleties of inter-ministry relationships affecting the worship leader, such as the senior pastor, the worship team, and the congregation.
Practical Music Theory covers those aspects of contemporary worship music important to aspiring worship leaders. Topics covered will include modern chord symbol notation, charting, arranging and composition.
Understanding the Psalms provides insight into praise and worship through an in-depth look as the form, poetry, and theology of the Psalms.
Directing a Band will deal with instrumentation, arranging, producing, and rehearsing a contemporary worship band including an understanding of each instrument's roles and responsibilities within the band.
Ministry Lab provides a chance for students to choose to weekly lead worship in one of three ways. 1.) Worship Choir 2.) WPC time 3.) Ministry Substitution
Module 3: Class Module (10 weeks)
Mar. 24 - May. 29;
Systematic Theology gives an overview of the nature of God, the nature of man, salvation, and other core doctrines of our faith. How we think about God affects how we relate to Him. In order to approach God correctly and build our worship ministries on a strong foundation, we must formulate accurate thoughts and beliefs about God and His Kingdom.
Worship Leading Practicum covers the dynamics of leading a worship service. Topics will include: building song lists, creating a flow, personal preparation and other relevant subjects. Students will form worship teams, lead worship before class, and receive evaluations. (This course is only available for Full-time students.)
Applied Music Theory is an applicational treatment of the material covered in the Practical Music Theory course. The class will include vocal techniques for everyone, piano or guitar immersion, part writing, and charting. Students may test out of segments of this class with the instructor's approval.
Worship Songwriting will teach the proven techniques of harnessing your inspiration to create memorable worship songs. The class will include practical training and discussions on techniques that will help the songwriter gain the listener's attention quickly, use musical techniques to find fresh ways of expressing worship, write effective lyrics, and much more. Students will have opportunity to share songs and ideas with each other as well as share encouragement and evaluations with other students and staff.
Ministry Lab provides a chance for students to choose to weekly lead worship in one of three ways. 1.) Worship Choir 2.) WPC time 3.) Ministry Substitution
