the charismatic aspect of convergence worship

[HelenaZF]

One of the three streams of the CEC communion is the charismatic. The charismatic stream acknowleges the dynamic interaction of the Holy Spirit within the framework of the liturgy. Without the charismatic, the other two streams (liturgy and the evangelical) lack the power brought to them through the moment-by-moment leading of the Holy Spirit.



The church is called to be prophetic, not predictable. Liturgy and form are very capable of existing without the dynamic intervention and illumination of the the Holy Spirit and can become eminently predictable and lifeless. Therefore, for the Church to be alive and actively walking in the Now of the Kingdom, we must nurture and honor the charismatic stream.



The liturgy must serve the Holy Spirit. He must be allowed to move in and out of the liturgy, to stop us to dwell on certain truths, to inject ministry and words of knowledge and wisdom. To open the heavens to our eyes through visual prophecy and dramatic interpretation of the present Word. Our job as worship ministers is to discern His directions and to walk them out. When we have done that, either within the liturgy or as a hiatus from it, we return to the liturgy and proceed until the next breath of direction comes from Him.



As music and movement artists, the liturgy and the Word provide us with the solid frame upon which to obey the leadings of the Holy Spirit within the context of the service. We can use music and movement to enhance, expand and express what we see going on in the heavenlies, as well as be used by the Holy Spirit to initiate His ministry to the people through those mediums as the forms of the liturgy progress. That is how the charismatic works within a liturgical setting. It is not a free-for-all, but the gifts brought in proper order and under proper authority.