A relevant liturgy for Reformed churches of African origin concerning liturgical music

Abstract

The question to be answered in this article is: How can the Reformed Churches of African origin come to liturgical music that is Biblical and contextual? The following basis theoretical principles for Reformed Churches can be summarised: Liturgical music must be faithful to the Bible and it has to glorify God; it must edify the congregation and the music should be composed in such a way that people should sing from the heart, through the Spirit and in understanding. Liturgical music is a spiritual, verbal and emotional element that proclaims, exalts, rebukes, comforts, motivates and inspires. Music is natural to the African and is found in the traditional worship of the African and accompanies the ritual and ceremonies. Music is efficient to express religious belief as well as feeling and members have to learn to evaluate music. Music in the Reformed churches can become recognised and unique when it sticks to and upholds the Biblical truth.