Why Pastors Should Sing

By Charles P. Brown

Singing has always been a powerful and integral part of worship. From hymns and psalms to chorales and cantatas, Christians have used music to praise God, teach biblical truths and unite the gathered saints. The role of the pastor in leading music in the Divine Service should not be overlooked. In my youth, there were pastors who sang and inspired me to be active in church music. In fact, even a “tone deaf” pastor greatly influenced my musical participation. A pastor’s encouragement matters.

Does singing matter?

Singing is a form of prayer. When we lift our voices in song, we are offering up our praise, thanks and petitions to God. Pastors regularly lead their congregations in prayer, and singing adds an additional dimension to those prayers. Whether it be through a hymn, the chanting of a psalm or a refrain, music can often touch the heart and soul more deeply than spoken words. When a group of people breathe together and share in song, it fosters a community among God’s people that can be hard to define but is easily understood once experienced.

A pastor’s teaching can also be enhanced through singing. LCMS churches highly value the ability of the liturgy and hymn to speak God’s Word. By actively participating in the music ministry of the church, pastors reinforce these teachings and deepen the congregation’s understanding of the faith. When pastors lead by example, they demonstrate the value of music in worship and instruction.

Me sing?!

Some pastors who have not been trained how to sing may feel reticent to sing in front of the congregation. What then? Know that singing can be learned, and there are numerous ways to improve these skills. The pastor is not alone in this endeavor. When singing or chanting individually in worship, a trusted musician or cantor can provide feedback to further strengthen the pastor for this service. This summer’s Institute on Liturgy, Preaching, and Church Music will also provide opportunities for growth.

As a music professor, I work with students who want to improve their singing in service to God. I have learned that anyone who wants to improve their singing can do so with encouraging instruction and coaching. Though growth and development take time, I have heard significant improvements in people who thought they were tone deaf.

Singing not only benefits us individually here and now. We are also encouraging and preparing the next generation of singing pastors in the church. Even when pastors choose not to sing individually in worship — even pastors who might struggle now to match pitch — they can still demonstrate a willingness to sing. This simple encouragement has lasting rewards.

There are many benefits to be gained from pastors incorporating singing into their ministry. Whether for prayer, communication, self-expression or teaching, singing can help pastors connect with their congregations in meaningful ways. As Martin Luther said, “Next to the Word of God, the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the world.” An even greater treasure is yet to come: life eternal with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit in the unending song of praise with the heavenly host.

Cover image: LCMS Communications/Erik M. Lunsford