Church Choir (Volunteer versus Paid) Question

[Hoovie]

Originally Posted by notofworks

I pretty much kept my mouth shut during the, "WooHoo, we won" thread, but since this has been brought up, I have a hard time with the whole "Choir Competition" concept. I just can't imagine Jesus in the middle of this stuff. Imagine, in Acts 14 or so, the apostles holding a "Healing Competition" or a "Convert Competition". I don't see how Jesus gets lifted up in this stuff. I can't imagine that Jesus gives a hoot who sings the best. This is strictly for the accolades of man and when that's the goal, it ends up with bickering over who gets paid, who doesn't, etc.

Originally Posted by rrford

Agreed.

Originally Posted by MikeinAR

I would never voluntarily do anything that endangered my families finances or my job. I believe in putting God first, my family second and then the church, choir, events, etc. It's not biblical for anyone to expect you to put choir/church stuff in front of the needs of your family.

If this trip requires that, I'd politely explain my situation to the choir director and opt out.

You guys are all on a volunteer basis. Would the choir director/pastor of your church volunteer without pay to go to New York and minister? A lot of ministers I know wouldn't go voluntarily hold a revival. A servant is worth their hire right?

It seems burdensome on people who have to support their families needs. Those who don't work or who can comfortably go, should go and support the choir. You shouldn't feel obligated to do so though.

While I personally would not be to enthused with the idea of choir competition, I also realize my opinion may be biased because I am not into the style we see displayed.

I see no reason why God cannot be glorified in and through competitive events, like Bible Quizzing, Singing, Music, Drama or a TV reality show. It is a fordrawn conclusion that not everyone will enjoy every event and there is a target audience. I think the chance to be on Good Morning America has great potential to be a positive witness.

The personal opportunity for the individual choir members is huge. This is the stuff memories are made of, and what keeps life from becoming mundane. If it means someone losing income and causes stress in finances - I think others in the church should support them to help make it happen. A trip to NYC and a chance to sing on TV sounds fabulous to me, in spite of the fact that I prefer smooth Jazz over Black Choir music.