Julie's Worship Studies
Julie’s Progress at The Institute for Worship Studies
May 2010
I’m now 2/3 of the way through my Worship Studies Doctoral Program. On May 26 I received my grade for the fourth semester, “Sacraments and Spiritual Formation.” I earned an A. In case anyone is keeping score, the grades I’ve earned for the first four semesters are:
The History of Worship A –
Music and the Arts in Worship A
The Christian Year A –
Sacraments and Spiritual Formation A
My Grade Point Average is 3.85
My research project for “Sacraments and Spiritual Formation” was “Spiritual Formation in Worship.” There are many aspects to this subject but by far the most important aspect is one of participation. Christians need to come to worship with expectant and open hearts. The Holy Spirit can do the work of spiritual formation if one merely shows up for worship. However, a vessel waiting to be filled has much more receptivity. Just because a person lacks an assigned leadership role in worship doesn’t mean their role as worshiper is unimportant. When even one person is missing in the body of Christ called St. Andrew we are weakened as a community. Participation is the main way in which the Spirit can shape our souls.
My applied project for “Sacraments and Spiritual Formation” was to design the Holy Week services of Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. The Stations of the Cross Project was planned as my applied project last semester even though it was carried out this semester. I included information about the Stations of the Cross in my report. I was overwhelmed by the gifts and contributions of St. Andrew on this project. I also thank you for attending and giving honest feedback about the Holy Week Services. I especially thank the Drama Team for their faithful participation in these services. I pray that everyone who visited the Stations of the Cross or participated in the Holy Week Services experienced the presence of God in some way and were able to experience a fuller and more glorious Easter Resurrection.
I go back to Orange Park, Florida in June for my Thesis Class, in which we will decide on our topics and be instructed as to the completion process. Loretta and I have been praying together about the direction of my thesis and I would also appreciate your prayers. My goal is to complete my thesis in a year, graduating in June of 2011.
Peace – Julie Janisch, Director of Worship Arts
