FLAT ROCK AME CHURCH

MUSIC MINISTRY

RULES AND EXPECTATIONS

I. Purpose and Spiritual Vision

The choir is more than a group of individuals who sing together; we are a MINISTRY called to serve, worship, and lead others into the presence of God. Every choir member is expected to demonstrate commitment, excellence, humility, respect, and Christian character both inside and outside of the church.

These rules and expectations are established to promote unity, accountability, excellence, order, and effective ministry.

II. Attendance and Punctuality

Regular attendance is expected. Members should make every reasonable effort to attend all scheduled rehearsals, worship services, special programs, and other scheduled ministry engagements.
Punctuality matters. Members are expected to arrive at the designated time, prepared and ready to participate. Arriving when rehearsal has already begun is considered tardiness. Members are not allowed to enter on stage once service has started unless directed by the Director of Music.
If a member is unable to attend a rehearsal or service, the Director of Music should be notified as soon as possible.
Repeated absences, excessive tardiness, or a pattern of inconsistent attendance may result in a member being asked to sit out of a particular service or engagement until attendance and commitment improve.
Attendance at rehearsal does not automatically guarantee participation in every service. Participation may be determined by preparation, attendance, conduct, and the needs of the ministry.

III. Rehearsal Expectations

Members are expected to arrive on time and remain for the duration of rehearsal unless prior arrangements have been made.
Members should come prepared by:

Listening to assigned songs.
Learning lyrics.
Reviewing rehearsal materials.

Excessive talking, side conversations, horseplay, unnecessary movement, or other distractions are not appropriate during rehearsal.
Cell phones should be placed on silent and used only when necessary for ministry-related purposes.
Members are expected to give their full attention when instructions are being provided.
Rehearsal time is valuable. Members should respect the time and effort of everyone involved by remaining focused and prepared.

IV. Worship & Choir Decorum

Choir members should remember that people are watching us, not simply listening to us. Our conduct should reflect the ministry we represent.
Leaving the stage, sleeping, texting, or showing disinterest during the sermon is unacceptable.
Members should refrain from unnecessary talking, laughing, chewing gum, eating, excessive movement, or behavior that may distract the congregation or other members.
Members should demonstrate appropriate worship participation, whether or not they are currently singing.

EXCELLENCE DOES NOT MEAN PERFECTION. It means giving your best effort, being prepared, and continually striving to improve.

V. Dress & Appearance

Members are expected to maintain a neat, clean, and appropriate appearance when representing the choir.
When designated choir attire is provided or announced, members are expected to follow the established dress requirements.
Clothing should be appropriate for the worship environment and reflect the dignity of the church and Music Ministry.
Members should not make individual wardrobe choices that intentionally conflict with established choir attire.

VI. Spiritual Conduct, Authority, and Conflict Resolution

Membership in the choir is a privilege and a ministry responsibility.
Members are expected to respect the authority and direction of the pastor, music ministry leadership, and church leadership.
Members are expected to exercise wisdom and discretion when posting on social media. Do not post anything that could negatively affect another member, the Music Ministry or the church.
Questions and concerns are welcome; however, they should be communicated respectfully and at the appropriate time.
Public arguments, confrontations, disrespectful responses, or attempts to undermine leadership will not be tolerated.
Constructive correction is a necessary part of ministry and musical growth. Members are expected to receive corrections with maturity and humility.
Corrective action is not intended to embarrass or punish a member. Its purpose is to protect the unity, integrity, and effectiveness of the ministry.

When a member repeatedly fails to meet established expectations, leadership may address the concern privately and provide an opportunity for correction.
Continued issues involving attendance, preparation, conduct, disrespect, or failure to follow ministry expectations may result in:
1. A verbal or written warning.
2. Temporary removal from a particular service or engagement.
3. Temporary suspension from choir participation.
4. Other appropriate action determined by the Pastor, Music Ministry, and/or church leadership.

VII. Summary

We are not simply a group of people who sing together. WE ARE A MINISTRY. Every time we stand before the congregation, we represent something greater than ourselves. Our preparation, attitude, appearance, behavior, relationships, and commitment should reflect the God we serve.

We will sing with excellence, serve with humility, worship with sincerity, and walk together in unity.