TO CLAP OR NOT TO CLAP

I have noticed more often in recent months there is applause after a “special number”. Perhaps you too have wondered if it is ok to clap.

There are some problems associated with applause in the context of a worship service. First, applause tends to bring attention to the messenger instead of the message. It usually follows presentations of musical selections, more often solo performances than choral, especially those that have loud and high theatrical endings. This attitude is clearly shown by the fact that slow, meditative songs seldom receive applause.

Secondly, the soloist is placed in a very difficult position: “Should I be gracious by acknowledging the applause; and if I do, will I be perceived as accepting the applause for myself instead of giving the glory to God?”

Thirdly, applause makes the congregation uncomfortable. If only one person applauds, others will feel that they have to also to avoid embarrassing the clapper or offending the soloist. The congregation will feel as though they must clap even if the music didn’t minister to them personally. They will feel as though the singer will be offended. Some churches deal with this by encouraging the congregation to clap after all musicals selections.

Here are some principles that we need to consider when looking for solutions to this problem. Music in the church is different from music everywhere else. As musicians, we are not performers in a concert. We are participants in worship. We sing to inspire others to reach for God. Applause following acts of worship is a secular concept, borrowed from the world, and can create a theater mentality where the congregation becomes simply an ‘audience” cheering on the “performers” who do the worship. Instead, the congregation and musicians should be participating together in worship of our one true audience – THE ALMIGHTY GOD!

I offer these suggestions to avoid potential problems: (1) Communicate to the musicians of the church your appreciation of their musical gifts in a verbal way after the service. (2) If you chose to applaud in worship, praise God for touching your life. Do not applaud the performers. There aren’t any!! (3) If the message of our musical worship has added to your personal worship, feel free to respond with “Amen” or “Praise the Lord”.

                                                     By Lee Samdahl

Music Director

Liberty Baptist Church