“Generation after generation stands in awe of your work; each one tells stories of your mighty acts.” – Psalm 145:4 (The Message)

Why does Central Bearden believe it is important to worship together as a multigenerational community of faith? Some have also come to know this as “convergence worship,” others have called it “blended worship” (but that term has usually been limited to musical style only, rather than blending of generations). Rebuilding a worship culture is essential, particularly as we move out of the pandemic, as it draws us into close fellowship with God and with one another. Consider what multigenerational worship is and why it is necessary in the life of worshipers.

Multigenerational Worship…

…is SCRIPTURAL. It encourages us to come together. Hebrews 10:25 – “And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” Psalm 95:6-7 – “Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the Lord our maker, for he is our God. We are the people he watches over, the flock under his care.” Psalm 145:4 – “One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.”

…FOCUSES our affection (heart) and attention (mind) on GOD (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) rather than on underlying focuses of style, age, ethnicity.

…builds COMMUNITY through a spirit of unity in a culture around us that is often fragmented and highly individualized.

…is PARTICIPATORY when we are ALL involved in the act of worship, not just a particular age or affinity group.

…CONNECTS people by bringing together generations, churches, communities, and families.

…strengthens UNITY since “one voice” eliminates the “us vs. them” mentality. We learn from each other and every person’s faith traditions. It is larger learning than that of just musical tradition.

…encourages COOPERATION – we need each other! Every person needs input from growing Christ-followers. Worship is not about us, but it is about honoring the Lord in every way.

“For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation.” – Psalm 100:5 (NLT)

–adapted for Central Bearden from information presented by in a session of the Baptist Church Music Conference (Oklahoma City); unknown