Will NFUMC keep a "contemporary" service?

I hope so and it is part of my vision.

Not having a service a service with a contemporary feel to it has never even been on my radar.  We do still need to sort out what contemporary will mean for us. There is a range in music from harder edge rock to more sedate praise music. I’m not sure where we will be when the dust settles.

Concerning the possibilty of a service using video preaching, the idea of such video is just one idea that has been around a long time. Some churches are using it effectively. When the 11:00 service was in the earliest stages of planning, we set up these services so video could be used if needed. I do not see it as a first choice.

As a pastor, I know how important it is to be in a service with people in front of me. The congregation "bends" the message as they respond. We no longer have an Amen corner, but the expressions tell a good preacher if they are on track or not. Additionally, a great deal of pastoral contact and care occurs as the congregation gathers and departs the worship space.

If the sanctuary was used for contemporary worship, it could work quite well. Chairs and pulpit furniture would be out. The stage on the chancel would be great for a band. The planned update of the organ would give midi capacity far beyond most any keyboard. It would be different but with banners and such it could work.