Traditional - A little broad, perhaps, as this may be anything from a liturgical classical-music-only service (sometimes called "high church") to a non-liturgical formal service to a liturgical semi-formal service to a non-liturgical semi-formal service. Yikes!! Are you confused?!? Most Adventist churches are generally non-liturgic. They don't follow the church year calendar except in a very broad way (Christmas and Easter) Some are formal, using primarily classical music, choir anthems, hymns of praise and set scripture readings, and many are semi-formal, using all types of hymns including gospel and experience hymns and more personal testimonies and different styles of special music. An example of a liturgical, semi-formal church would be many of the Methodist congregations. All the traditional format churches use primarily organ for accompaniment along with the piano (those who can, have orchestras!). The music may be led by a Minister of Music.
Contemporary - Often called "Celebration," this style is usually defined by the used of the newer style of praise and worship song that was born out of the "Jesus movement" of the seventies. These songs are intended to give younger generations or new Christians a tool for expressing their devotion in a way that is more natural, authentic and meaningful to them, and there is a strong emphasis on active worship participation in these congregations. The contemporary service usually encourages people to "come as they are" and the atmosphere is very informal (though not necessarily unstructured). Drama and other creative arts are used extensively. Musical accompaniment is usually by a praise band including guitars, bass, drums, keyboards and other solo instruments. Some larger churches have a full orchestra with the core band. The singing is led by the worship team or a choir under the direction of a Worship Leader.
Blended - This type of service has become more popular recently for a number of reasons. Within many congregations who have gone contemporary there are worshipers who miss some of the traditional elements such as the responsive scripture readings and some of the favorite hymn tunes. Conversely, many of the traditional churches feel a need to become more in touch with the newer music and to include dramatic elements, etc. without changing their overall identity. The blended service incorporates an eclectic mix of both styles. Praise and worship songs may be sung along with hymns to the accompaniment of piano and organ, or there may be an electric keyboard and guitars leading out on some songs. Often hymns are used with a decidedly non-traditional accompaniment, providing a new way to do something old. This can be very meaningful to some worshippers who may have lost touch with the meaning of some of the old hymns because they did not relate to the musical style. Many have predicted that the blended service will be the format that will see the most growth and popularity in this decade.
Transitional - This term usually refers to churches who are going from traditional to seeker, contemporary or blended formats. Some make a qualitative change and some quantitative (adding a new service in another style).
Seeker - The seeker service is primarily a way of introducing non-churched people who may be wary of "churchy" feeling environments to the basic relevance of the gospel of Jesus Christ to their day-to-day lives. The sermons address problems and needs that are real to them and show how a relationship with Christ will bring answers, hope and meaning to them. Seeker services are usually more contemporary in their music style and feel. Drama is often used very effectively in seeker services. Music is used to both make the seeker feel comfortable and also to make a point or to draw hearts towards a decision. Participatory worship music may be minimized, but often a service will start with some fun songs of praise and joy to set a mood. Seeker services, when done right, are thematic from start to finish, with the music, drama and sermon all working towards a conclusion. Clarity of communication is essential. There is also the term "seeker-sensitive" which refers to churches of various other worship formats which try to use sermon topics, language and music that will make nonmember visitors feel included.
At the time this article was writtne, Jim Teel was the pastor for worship at the Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church.
