At its core, worship involves engaging with God through prayer, singing, teaching, and other acts that foster a connection with the divine. It serves as an opportunity for individuals to express their love, gratitude, and reverence toward God. Worship also has a social aspect. Worship is not just an individual experience; it highlights the importance of gathering as a community of believers. The fellowship during worship strengthens bonds among members and fosters a sense of belonging and mutual support. In this article, I will briefly share five things about the worship practices in the Ethiopian Anabaptist Church.

1. MKC’s worship services have evolved over the years

MKC’s worship services have evolved significantly from their early, simple gatherings in private homes to structured services that reflect both traditional practices and contemporary influences. This evolution aligns with the historical, cultural, and spiritual context of the community, showcasing the interplay between faith and social responsibility. Worship practices may evolve over time due to various influences, such as cultural shifts and generational changes within the community. The evolution seen in MKC’s worship, from traditional, simple services to more lively, expressive forms, demonstrates the dynamic nature of worship as it adapts to meet the needs and aspirations of its members.

2. MKC’s worship is holistic

Worship at MKC encompasses various elements, including prayer, music, fellowship, teaching, and acts of service. This comprehensive approach highlights the significance of community involvement and the imperative to care for those in need. It suggests that authentic worship transcends the church walls, extending into acts of compassion and outreach that embody the essence of faith.

True worship extends far beyond mere rituals and doctrines; it calls believers to engage in meaningful actions that embody their convictions. This encompasses caring for the needy, supporting orphans, visiting the sick, aiding those incarcerated, and actively demonstrating a deep commitment to social responsibility. In this way, worship evolves into a dynamic expression of faith that infuses everyday life, transforming not only the hearts of individuals but also the very fabric of the community.

3. MKC has generational tensions in worship style

As MKC grew, there was a shift in worship style influenced by younger generations seeking a more vibrant and emotionally expressive experience. This has led to tensions, with some older members expressing concerns over the perceived abandonment of theological depth and substance in favor of more lively and energetic forms of worship. Worship embodies a tension between maintaining theological depth and allowing for emotional expression. As MKC transitions to more contemporary worship styles, there is a need for discernment to ensure that the practices remain rooted in Scripture while being responsive to the congregation’s preferences.

4. Culture and politics shaped MKC worship

The dynamics of worship were profoundly influenced by external factors, particularly government restrictions during the socialist regime (1974-1991), which compelled church members to practice their faith in secret. As the church went underground, the nature of worship transformed dramatically due to constraints on religious freedom. Believers could no longer sing openly and joyously during gatherings; instead, they met in hushed tones, acutely aware that any elevated voices might draw unwanted attention and lead to arrests for defying the government’s prohibitions.

Despite these limitations, congregants found solace in silent prayers, softly whispering their hopes and fears to God. Occasionally, home cell leaders would have to remind members to lower their voices, especially when the Holy Spirit ignited their hearts with uncontainable zeal. In those moments, the pressure to maintain discretion weighed heavily upon them, yet their faith remained steadfast in the shadows.

The reopening of churches in the early 1990s signified a remarkable transition back to more expressive forms of worship.

5. MKC needs more intentional worship practices

While MKC has a spiritually vibrant community, there is a clear need for a more intentional approach to worship that is both biblically grounded and culturally resonant. Current practices often lack depth and fail to engage the congregation, revealing a disconnect between worship styles and the spiritual needs of its members. Traditionally, congregants would sing from hymnbooks, but there has been a shift towards a more heartfelt expression of worship. However, when worshipers are unfamiliar with the songs performed by the worship team, they may find themselves sidelined, either standing or sitting in silence. Adding to this challenge is the absence of projection screens for displaying song lyrics or printed copies of the songs, which would greatly enhance the congregation’s ability to participate fully.

Interestingly, the worship service typically begins with slower, meditative songs before transitioning into more upbeat, high-energy melodies designed to stir emotions and inspire movement. By the time the sermon begins, many congregants are left feeling physically drained. The sermon itself, which can last for an hour, often lacks robust biblical substance, and the service concludes soon after with the Lord’s Prayer. To enrich the worship experience, there is a pressing need to train worship leaders and provide practical tools for increasing the participation of the worshippers. Such enhancements could significantly deepen the worship experience and foster a stronger connection between the community and their spiritual practices.