Creating an atmosphere where worship has the opportunity to happen

At present, Otterbein Church has two praise teams that help lead worship during our 10:45 a.m. worship service. They alternate weeks of leading. Both teams consist of vocalists, acoustic guitar, bass, drums and keyboard.

The Praise Team ministry was begun in 1997 when Otterbein added a third service on Sunday mornings in order to offer people a choice in worship times and styles. The music in the third service was more modern and the atmosphere a little less formal. This service has had a positive effect on our church’s ability to reach out to those who may not be able to attend the earlier services and who prefer this particular style of worship.

The 8 and 9:20 a.m. services employ a combination of traditional hymns and modern praise/worship songs which are led effectively by the choir,vocalists, organist, pianist and other instruments.

A concerted effort is made to connect all worship songs, regardless of style, along with Scripture and the spoken word to lead the congregation into an environment where each worshipper can connect with the Father and deepen his/her relationship with Him through the act of worship.

The praise teams fulfill the role of "worship leader" by being "lead worshippers." A praise team's primary responsibility is to worship God as he/she stands in front to lead the congregation. In a sense, they are "worship instructors" to the congregation as they model the act of worshipping God.
The praise teams' desire is to "create an atmosphere where worship has the opportunity to happen." Ultimately it is up to the individual to worship God, but the teams are there to aid in helping each one to draw near and experience the presence of God.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who leads the Praise Team?
Both groups are led by Dave Besecker, the Director of Music and Worship at Otterbein.

What abilities are necessary to be in the Praise Team?
Instrumentalists must be able to follow chord charts, be familiar with all major and minor chords (or show an ability to learn them quickly), play by ear and work in a group setting.

Vocalists must be able to adapt to different vocal styles and rhythms, be able to harmonize by ear and/or read music. They should possess the ability to visually communicate the message of a song while singing.

How do I get in the Praise Team?
Admission into the praise team is done through auditions that are held periodically throughout the year. Those who would like to audition for the team must come prepared to sing a solo which demonstrates their vocal ability. The song may be sacred or secular; however, secular song lyrics must be chosen carefully for their appropriateness. Solos can be accompanied by piano, CD or be a cappella. Applicants will also be asked to learn a new song in their vocal range and will sing with others to determine blend and intonation. Applicants fill out a form that states, if chosen, they are committed to come regularly to rehearsals and services. They are also asked to give a brief testimony of how they came to faith in Christ.

The best way to begin leading worship at Otterbein is to join the choir. It is here that people learn how to serve others by being a part of the larger group. The choir serves as the “backbone” of Otterbein’s music ministry.

When does the Praise Team rehearse?
Both praise teams practice on Thursday evenings. The team that will lead worship on Sunday is the group that rehearses on Thursday evening. Prayer and share time begins at 6:45 p.m., and the rehearsal begins at 7:15 p.m. and runs until approximately 8:45 p.m.

Efforts are made throughout the year to bring the two groups together.