Creeds In Worship (Contemporary)

In contemporary and in praise-and-worship traditions, the response of faith is becoming a common practice. Some churches are using historical or contemporary creeds, while others are encouraging people to sing or say their own acclamations of faith or to engage in a talk-back sermon as a way of responding in faith to the Scripture readings and the proclamation of the gospel.

Form for Congregational Responses of Faith The minister invites these responses of faith and people will say or sing such acclamations as "You are God," "I love you Lord," "You are faithful," "I bless you for your mercy and forgiveness." A form to be used for a spontaneous response of faith is below: Minister: In response to the Scripture readings and sermon, I invite you to offer brief acclamations of faith. People: [Spontaneous responses of faith are made.] Minister: The Lord's name be praised. People: Amen. Resource: A number of excellent affirmations of faith are found in various prayer books. A Form for Small Group Response of Faith Minister: Please stand. Please turn and group yourselves with four to six people and respond to the sermon by saying, "I heard God speak to me in … " Minister: Bring the response to a close with a song. A Form for a Talk-Back Sermon After completing the sermon the minister may sit in a chair in a place where he/she can be seen by all. The minister may then say, "What did God say to you through the Scripture and sermon today? Please stand and speak clearly so that all may hear." The people may then respond with brief statements. These personal responses should not be sermons directed at people, but a witness to what has been heard in Scripture or Sermon and how that may be applied to this spiritual pilgrimage.