The call to worship is one of the oldest practices in the Christian tradition, yet in many contemporary church settings, it has either disappeared or taken on new forms that lack intentionality. While today’s worship services often emphasize spontaneity, creativity, and relevance, these values don’t need to be at odds with a strong theological grounding. A meaningful call to worship can both anchor a service in Scripture and stir hearts for active, Spirit-led participation. Whether your congregation meets in a traditional sanctuary or a rented school gymnasium, the call to worship can still serve as a holy moment.
The Call to Worship
Here are four practical and creative ways to incorporate a call to worship in a contemporary church without disrupting flow or authenticity.
1. Use Scripture-Based Spoken Word or Video
One of the most effective ways to introduce a call to worship is through a Scripture passage—especially Psalms or other responsive texts—spoken clearly at the beginning of a service. In a contemporary setting, this doesn’t have to be a dry recitation. Consider having a worship team member or church leader step forward to passionately deliver a Psalm or short passage that aligns with the theme of the service. For example, Psalm 95:6-7—“Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker…”—provides both an invitation and a purpose.
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If your congregation uses media screens, you can project the text while it’s being read, or even create a brief video montage with music and visuals that enhance the emotional tone. This approach gives a modern edge while keeping Scripture at the heart of worship. It’s especially helpful for drawing in first-time guests who may not be familiar with traditional liturgy.
2. Incorporate the Call to Worship into a Worship Leader’s Opening
In many contemporary churches, the first person to speak is a worship leader welcoming the congregation. Instead of a generic greeting, this moment can be transformed into a purpose-driven call to worship. For instance, rather than saying, “Good morning, let’s sing together,” a worship leader might say:
“Church family, today we gather because God is worthy of our praise. Psalm 100 reminds us to ‘Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise.’ Let’s stand and give God the honor He deserves.”
This method allows the call to worship to feel natural and personal. It gives the worship leader an opportunity to pastor the room and set the tone before any music begins. It also models for the congregation that worship is not just singing, but a response to God’s presence and goodness.
