Worship 101: A Guide to Planning and Leading

Preaching and Sermon PreparationMusic Ministry and Worship PlanningLay Leadership
Written By Ministry Forum

Seeds of Grace Resources | By Anne Miller | seedsofgraceresources.ca

Worship 101 walks readers through the core structure of Christian worship and the spiritual meaning behind each movement. It provides tools and theological reflection for leaders who want to make worship more intentional, inclusive, and prayerful. The guide follows a five-fold pattern common across many traditions:

  • Gathering as God’s People

  • Approaching God Together

  • Listening to the Word

  • Responding and Giving Thanks

  • Going Out to Serve

Each section provides practical insights for worship preparation—such as choosing Scripture and music, writing prayers, involving all ages, and collaborating with musicians or liturgists. The resource is designed to make worship planning less intimidating and more prayerful, helping leaders see worship as the work of the whole community, not just the person up front.

While of benefit to any worship leader, this resource is specifically for elders and other laypeople who are asked to lead worship who have had no theological training.

About the Author

Anne Miller is a lifelong Presbyterian but has also been blessed to experience the richness of the wider church in a variety of contexts. She is a Christian Educator, holding a Master of Religious Education through McMaster Divinity College, and has served the church for over 25 years, in para-church and congregational ministry.

In the last ten years, she has transitioned from child, youth and family ministry to leading worship. She is passionate about the role of Christian Education in the church, both in worship and programming, and about drawing together people of all ages to form community as the people of God.

About Seeds of Grace Resources

Seeds of Grace Resources is Anne Miller’s creative platform for equipping churches, families, and leaders to nurture faith that is resilient and deeply rooted in God’s grace. Its name and logo draw inspiration from the acacia tree, known for growing strong in harsh conditions and for its use in building the biblical tabernacle—a symbol of God’s dwelling among His people.

Like the acacia, Seeds of Grace Resources seeks to help Christian communities grow deep and stretch wide, providing shade, strength, and renewal through resources through encouraging lifelong learning, worship, and service. The site offers program curriculum, worship resources and reflections designed to help congregations “reach up in knowledge and love of God and reach out in service, compassion, and inclusion.”

What You’ll Find Inside:

  • Worship planning templates and checklists

  • Guidance for Scripture, music, and prayer selection

  • Practical tips for inclusive, intergenerational worship

  • Reflection space for personal notes and growth

  • Curated resource links and lectionary helps

Download the Digital or Print Version of Worship 101:A Guide to Planning and Leading

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