Few moments in ministry are as delicate as extending the invitation to discipleship after a funeral sermon. In many evangelical traditions, “opening the doors of the church” is standard practice, often resulting in rows of youth filling the altar.…
Category: Religion
The Choir Stand Pulpit
A Weekly Column for Musicians and Song Leaders MOTHER’S DAY EDITION • MAY 10, 2026 What Mama Hummed, the Choir Stand Must Carry When a preacher testifies in past tense, the musician answers in present tense — a real-time reflection…
The Choir Stand Pulpit
Playing by Faith, Not by Sight When the eyes go dim, the hands and the heart keep the hymns alive By Robert Wright | Minister of Music – New Light Baptist Church • Ludden Chapel Baptist Church “I pray that…
Use care when using a ministerial title
In the sanctuary, a title is often more than a name; it is a signifier of respect, a recognition of spiritual lineage, and a marker of jurisdictional authority. Within our own faith traditions, terms like Bishop, Apostle, or Doctor are understood through the lens…
The Choir Stand Pulpit
Sacred Sifting: When Worship Meets Purification Conceptual song selections emerge from Rev. Mariko Billups’ powerful message on spiritual purification By Robert Wright | Minister of Music, Ludden Chapel Baptist Church & New Light Baptist Church When Rev. Mariko Billups stepped…
Pastors should avoid the appearance of sex sin
A pastor’s ministry is as effective as his/her reputation. A pastor’s morality is held to a higher standard, so the wise pastor avoids even the “appearance of evil” in sexual matters. The best practice is to be professional. Single ministers…
Preparing Couples for Marriage is an essential pastoring skill
A wedding is more than a ceremony. It is a covenant before God. That means pastors must take their role seriously when guiding couples toward marriage. First, insist on counseling before agreeing to perform the ceremony. Love is strong, but…