Find out what goes on behind the beautiful graphics and videos on the LED screen each weekend.
Contributed By Melissa Chen
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| CN PHOTOS: Michael Chan |
The 60-over member strong chorus board ministry is an integral part of City Harvest Church’s weekend services. The ministry’s main purpose is to enhance the weekend services and other CHC-related events by displaying song lyrics, announcement information, as well as sermon notes and illustrations. Information is flashed on the LED screens found in the church’s two worship locations at the Singapore Expo and Jurong West. This ministry also works closely with technical departments such as the television and sound ministry.
Tan Sihui, 29, a ministry leader, shares, “I was first encouraged by my cell group leader to join this ministry as I am well-versed in using computers. Coupled with my love for music, I felt very much at home in the ministry. The chorus board ministry is progressive. It is not always about technical work but also about building relationships. Everyone is loving and fun, just like a family. I have been serving for eight years and I am still passionate about what I do.”
The ministry started off in the 1990s. Then, song lyrics and announcements would be displayed using overhead projectors. Along with technological advancement over the years came the upgrading of technological gadgets, software programs and equipment. The operating systems have also evolved from Microsoft Disk Operating System in the early years, to the different versions of Microsoft Windows. Today, the chorus board runs on a Mac operating system.
On a typical weekend, the team on duty has to report early to conduct preparatory work (audio, video and visual graphics work) and equipment tests according to the order of the service for that weekend. Tan explains, “One definitely has to possess a certain level of maturity as we need to handle first-hand confidential information from pastors and overseas guests. Spirituality is also a must as we need to be sharp and on our toes to anticipate and receive cues such as when to flash, change, repeat or even remove the information on screen.”
It may sound like an easy task—pressing a button on the computer so that the information hits the screens—but unforeseen technical glitches or last minute schedule changes can cause momentary stress and the person on duty has to react quickly and decisively to rectify the situation.
So who qualifies to be a CHC chorus board ministry volunteer? According to the requirements stated in CHC’s website, one should at least be an ordinary member who is computer literate and is familiar with praise and worship songs commonly sung in the church. On-the-job training will be provided for two months.
Eunice Lee, 33, who is in charge of trainings, explains, “This ministry is dynamic as it is fast-paced and always on-the-go. There will always be on-going last minute changes and I have learned to become more detailed, meticulous and accept changes, knowing that we cannot afford to make mistakes as the service is broadcast live over the internet. The team is also very loving and cooperative just like a family.”
Tan concludes, “We explore the strength and potential of each individual member with us. The people here are from all walks of life and all are welcomed whether or not you are artistic or technically-savvy. We believe every part plays a role in the body of Christ.”
