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Pastoral Ministry
say, Amen.” This response, in the fervor of their souls, was required
as evidence that they understood the word spoken and were interested
in it.—
The Signs of the Times, June 24, 1886
.
Beginning of Worship
When ministers enter the platform they should bow down in
silent prayer—When the minister enters, it should be with dignified,
solemn mien. He should bow down in silent prayer as soon as he steps
into the pulpit, and earnestly ask help of God. What an impression
this will make! There will be solemnity and awe upon the people.
Their minister is communing with God; he is committing himself
to God before he dares to stand before the people. Solemnity rests
upon all, and angels of God are brought very near. Every one of
the congregation, also, who fears God should with bowed head unite
in silent prayer with him that God may grace the meeting with His
presence and give power to His truth proclaimed from human lips.—
Testimonies for the Church 5:492
.
[178]
There should be a prayerful attitude on the platform—But
things that transpire in the sacred desk are often wrong. One minister
conversing with another in the desk before the congregation, laughing
and appearing to have no burden of the work, or lacking a solemn sense
of their sacred calling, dishonors the truth, and brings the sacred down
upon a low level with common things. The example is to remove the
fear of God from the people, and to detract from the sacred dignity of
the gospel Christ died to magnify. According to the light that has been
given me, it would be pleasing to God for them to bow down as soon
as they step into the pulpit, and solemnly ask help from God.—
The
Review and Herald, May 30, 1871
.
Music
Worship music should be cheerful, yet solemn—Those who
make singing a part of divine worship should select hymns with music
appropriate to the occasion, not funeral notes, but cheerful, yet solemn
melodies. The voice can and should be modulated, softened, and
subdued.—
The Signs of the Times, June 22, 1882
.