We are days removed from our second WorshipLife Event in Gatlinburg. By every measure taken of the week, it was a glorious gathering of Worship Leaders and worshippers.
Vance Pittman from Hope Church served us so well as he opened God’s word each day. The Hope Church worship team led by Teddy Johnson along with Michael Farren and Cliff Duren led powerful and Christ-honoring times of worship. Cana’s Voice, Christ Church Choir, Tommy Walker, California Baptist University Choir and Orchestra, Paul Baloche, and Selah were our concert artists for the week. Each time was unique and added to the variety and focus of the week.
Wednesday night featured “Songwriters in the Round.” We heard from amazing writers like Michael Farren, Kenna West, Tony Woods, Dave Clark, Don Koch, John Bolin, Kirk Kirkland, Paul Baloche, Tommy Walker, Steve Smith. I don’t think I’ll ever forget it.
A new feature this year included choirs – lots of choirs. And folks loved to see the ways choirs can lead worship. CBU, Grace (Knoxville), The Church at Station Hill, Christ Church Choir, and a community choir from Willington, NC, all sang with power and conviction. Publishers came to read their new music. Ministries came to demonstrate their resources.
But, when I think about WorshipLife, I think about something else – sure, I think about the blog and the podcast that are both growing in impact. I think about the new event next year on the West Coast called “WorshipLife West” that already has people pre-registering.
But what I think about more is this – God is up to something with this whole idea of WorshipLife. Because, WorshipLife is not just a website, or events, podcasts, and blogs.
In one word WorshipLife is – conversation.
It is a conversation between friends who are passionate about leading worship. These friends include writers and publishers, artists, and ministries. Most importantly, it is a conversation between the Savior and the servants of worship ministries everywhere.
Stay involved in it by reading and listening and yes, sharing your own thoughts. Sign up for one of next year’s events (a record number of you already have!) in Gatlinburg or California. Bring your Pastors and fellow worship leaders – we will have a fully developed track for Pastors next year and even more for ministry leaders.
Heart, soul, mind. WorshipLife.
Let’s talk.
Mike Harland is the Director of LifeWay Worship. When he’s not directing 30+ employees, you’ll find him leading worship at various churches around the country, writing/arranging worship songs and/or, writing his next book. In his spare time, he loves playing basketball and spending time with his family. Mike can be found on Twitter @MikeHarlandLW and on facebook.com/Mike.Harland.37.
Thanks for an uplifting time of worship and fellowship! The preaching and worship times served as much needed encouragement and inspiration. .As a senior pastor who has attended for two years straight, I am excited to see a track designed for Pastors next year. I have thoroughly enjoyed being part of Worship Life Event and highly recommend it to all involved in the ministry of the Kingdom. Looking forward to God’s blessings being poured out on next year’s event. What a privilege to minister alongside each of you!!!
We were inspired and learned so much. A literal “MOUNTAINTOP” experience. Thank you, Mike, and all your staff for investing so much of yourselves in this event. We will see you next year!
I was talking to my pastor’s wife last night on how I would love for our pastor and her to go next year. Great word Mike!!!!
Hi Mike, I really enjoy and appreciate your often comments in my email box. I would like very much to have info on “WorshipLife West”. Gattlinburg is way too far; California may be easier to manage.
Brian Gerards
Brian – reach to Renee Hardwick at renee.hardwick@lifeway.com. She will make sure you get all the info.
Hope to see you there!