HY Worship Team Requirements

Why do we worship? 

Worship is a precious practice that began at the dawn of time. God created music and creativity and allowed us to reflect His nature through our own creativity. We worship in many ways: through our giving, our work, the way we communicate, and how we live our day-to-day lives. However, the most recognized form of worship is through music. Our King has blessed us with gifts to help bring the church body into His presence—to magnify and glorify His name, and to lead where He directs us to go.

Standards

Being on the worship team is an honor and a privilege, and it is not to be taken lightly. I often say that I would rather have a mediocre band whose hearts burn for Jesus than an amazing band that doesn’t—and I stand by that. However, I also understand the importance of presenting a good offering of worship to our King, so I have set standards to honor that as well.

This does not mean that if you can’t play, I’ll turn you away—but I also won’t just throw you on the team. Heart posture is important, as is musical ability. Our church is blessed to have resources available to help you grow your gifts, learn to use them properly, and take steps toward where the Lord is leading you!

So… where do I start?

If you intend to be on the HY Worship Team, here are a few guidelines to follow:

  • Must be in high school or older (15+ years of age)
    We want to leave space for kids to receive before stepping into serving.

  • Must have a real relationship with Jesus
    The fruit of your life is important regardless, but if you are to be on a platform that bears the name of our church, youth group, and leaders, we want to represent well. Know who we are worshipping—genuinely and intimately.
    “God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” — John 4:24 (ESV)

  • Must have some musical ability
    There are many places to serve aside from the worship team. But if you plan to serve here, the ability to play your instrument well, practice for each set, and come prepared is non-negotiable.
    We allow room for growth, learning, and making mistakes—of course! But playing an instrument poorly can become a distraction and defeat the purpose of our gathering: to praise our King.
    Worship isn’t only about instruments and vocals, but when we can, we want to bring a pleasing sound to the Lord. It's easier to enter into His presence when we’re not distracted by random noises—so we aim to steward that space well.

  • Don’t be a diva
    Everyone battles the flesh daily. That’s why Jesus said in Luke 9:23 that we must pick up our cross and follow Him daily.
    We are not on the platform for popularity, coolness, or recognition. The only reason we are up there is to model what worship looks like and to enter into the presence of our Divine and Holy God. He alone is worthy, deserving, and righteous.
    We are not any cooler because of the gifts we've been given. Platforms can create divides, but we are all human, we all fall short, and we all need Jesus. We worship as one body—we are not divided by our roles. My worship is not more valued than yours!
    Worship is an act of humility, done in spirit and in truth. If that is not your heart behind joining the House Youth Worship Team, we encourage you to take this time to reflect rather than lead.

Other Notes

It’s important to note that you don’t have to be an amazing musician or vocalist to worship well. The standards set for the HY Worship Team exist because we are leading others—everyone can hear us, and they are looking to us to guide them into a time of worship.

God has designed each of us uniquely, exactly as He wanted us. If that includes being called to the worship team—wonderful! But if that is not where He’s calling you, He most definitely has a plan that will far surpass anything you could have done by staying on the HY Worship Team. Your worship off-stage is just as valued as worship from the platform.