Team Expectations

It is important that every team member has a strong commitment to our church's leadership and people. To be most effective, we must be united as a team, pursuing the same vision together.

Anyone serving in a high-visibility role is in a position of influence. Our congregation will naturally see those on stage as leaders. We should be diligent in walking in a manner that is worthy of the calling with which we have been called, seeking to honor the Lord in all we do on and off the stage—living lives that are all in for Jesus.

Being in ministry means you are called to leadership, and being in worship ministry means you are called to upfront ministry. Being a part of upfront ministry means that, biblically, you are held to a higher standard (Luke 12:48b). Your conduct should reflect that on and off the stage (Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 4:29; 1 Peter 1:15). As believers, we are to reflect the holiness and love of Christ, living lives that are worthy of the calling with which we have been called (Ephesians 4:1-3). It is not about perfection; no one is perfect. But it is important that you are serious about your walk with the Lord, ambitious to walk in the Spirit; to glorify Him (Galatians 5:16, 25). Some examples of Biblical standards we uphold are as follows:

• A deep and active relationship with Jesus, continually seeking Him in prayer and the study of His Word.

• Maintaining healthy, Christ-centered relationships with team members and others at The Garden Fellowship.

• Respect for church systems, processes, leadership, and team members.

• Alignment with the vision and culture of not only our worship team, but The Garden Fellowship and our lead pastors.

• Being mindful of what you are posting on social media. Remember that we are leading by example.

• No gossip or slander

• No divisive behavior

• No drugs

• No alcohol abuse

• No sexual misconduct (including but not limited to premarital or unBiblical sexual activity, pornography, living with a significant other, sexual harassment, etc.)

As a worship team, we believe that continually developing our craft is an important part of stewarding the gifts God has given us. Growing our skills allows us to lead more effectively and minimize distractions, not just for the congregation but also for ourselves as we lead. For this reason, we are committed to learning, practicing, and growing together with the desire to honor God with our best.

It is important that we are committed to attending Team Gatherings. These gatherings are important in fostering a culture of unity and healthy team dynamic. It is important that we are spending time together outside of the normal week-in week-out rehearsals and services to get to know each other, pray with each other, and dwell together in unity.

Please make it a point to be at every Team Gathering and similar events, as we worship not just on the platform, but in the gathering of the saints.

It is important that we are punctual and intentional in times we show up for rehearsals, getting sets in, and preparing for rehearsals and services. We glorify God not just in the execution of worship sets on a stage, but in the preparation; the hard work behind the scenes—being punctual sets the tone for the rest of what we do.

Don’t Wear Polarizing Logos or Graphics

T-shirts or jackets with sports teams, political statements, or pop culture icons, are noticeable. People may have various opinions about these topics. If it will distract or divide, don’t wear it.

Don’t Wear Revealing Clothing

Clothes that reveal too much should be avoided. Bra straps shouldn’t show, nor should too much skin (belly, open neckline, cleavage, etc.). What is fashionable on the streets, in your school, or place of work might not be appropriate at church.

Two things to consider: While trying on your outfit, raise your hands above your head and see if your stomach or back show. Also, make sure the material you’re wearing won’t become translucent when the stage lights are shining through them.

Don’t Wear Short Skirts, Dresses, or Shorts

You’re elevated and up on a platform. People’s eyes are at your thighs! Those who sit in the front row are looking UP at you. Ladies, if you’re going to wear a skirt, make sure it goes down past your knees at least. Yes, guys shouldn’t lust, but we should also do our best to help our brothers not stumble. We don’t want to wear anything that would draw attention to ourselves, especially the wrong kind of attention.

Do Check Your Fly

Nothing is more embarrassing than getting on stage in front of hundreds of people and having your fly down the whole time. Be sure to check your fly before you go on stage.

Do Avoid Overly Busy Patterns and Bright Colors

Busy patterns can be distracting and also look bad on camera. Aim to wear solids and darker, more neutral colors.

Do Iron Your Clothes

You want to look clean, sharp, presentable, and professional. You don’t want to look like you just rolled out of bed or rushed over from the gym. You want to bring God your best, even in how you dress.

Do Be Sensitive to Our Church’s Culture

Take into account that we do have a large demographic of older people at our church. Avoid holey jeans and anything else that might be deemed offensive especially for weekend services*.

A good rule of thumb is that those on stage should dress slightly fancier than the average look of the congregation.

Hats are okay as long as they are dressed up with your outfit. If you choose to wear a hat, please make sure it:

• Is part of a put-together, service-ready outfit

• Does not have distracting logos

• Is not a bright or attention-grabbing color

• Is appropriate for a church setting

• Is not political in any way

*Wednesdays can be a little more loose as the midweek evening service being a little more relaxed. Dress accordingly but still professional, showing that we care.

No hoodies for weekend services.