Speaking & Prayer Guidelines

Welcome! Thank you for speaking at our rehearsals and events. These guidelines help you communicate effectively with our diverse ecumenical community. We encourage our speakers to incorporate our values or a single value, even if in a very small way, and reference it as a value in the speech.

Review Our Values

Foundation

Understanding Our Community

When speaking at rehearsals, always refer to our organisation's values and mission. Our community brings together Christians from many traditions.

We gather to worship through music. Unity in Christ forms our foundation. Each tradition enriches our shared experience.

Quick Reference

Visit our About page for detailed mission and values. Review it before your first rehearsal.

Our Community Includes Members From These Traditions:

Anglican
Catholic
Eastern Orthodox (Greek)
Eastern Orthodox (Antiochian)
Eastern Orthodox (Macedonian)
Eastern Orthodox (Russian)
Oriental Orthodox (Coptic)
Oriental Orthodox (Armenian Apostolic)
Oriental Orthodox (Syriac)
Presbyterian
Reformed
Uniting Church
Evangelical

Baptist
Methodist
Lutheran
Salvation Army
Seventh-day Adventist
Churches of Christ
Church of the Nazarene
Apostolic Faith
Pentecostal / Charismatic
Brethren (Gospel Chapel / Brethren-style)
Independent / Non-denominational

Understanding Our Diversity

Authority

Catholic: Scripture + Tradition, under the Pope and bishops
Orthodox (Greek, Antiochian, Macedonian, Russian): Scripture + Tradition, led by bishops in councils (no Pope)
Anglican: Scripture central, plus tradition and bishops (range from very Protestant to very Catholic-ish)
Presbyterian/Reformed: Scripture is supreme, strong teaching tradition, elders lead
Baptist/Congregational/Independent: Scripture is supreme, local church has high autonomy, minimal hierarchy
Uniting/Methodist: generally broad, often values community discernment, can be wide theologically

Sacraments and "What Happens" in Communion

Catholic and Orthodox: very high view of the Eucharist, not "just a symbol"
Anglican/Lutheran: usually high view, but varies
Presbyterian/Reformed: often spiritual presence emphasis, less sacramental language
Baptist/Independent/Pentecostal: typically memorial emphasis, varies by church
Salvation Army: traditionally does not practise baptism or communion as ordinances

Baptism

Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican, Lutheran, Uniting, many Methodist: infant baptism is normal
Baptist, Churches of Christ, Nazarene, many Pentecostal/Independent: believer's baptism is normal
Churches of Christ and some Holiness groups: may emphasise baptism very strongly in discipleship language

The Holy Spirit and Spiritual Gifts

Pentecostal/Charismatic, ACC, Apostolic Faith: gifts like tongues, prophecy, healing are expected and emphasised
Anglican/Uniting/Baptist/Presbyterian/Reformed/Lutheran: can range from open to cautious, depending on the local church
Orthodox/Catholic: emphasise the Spirit deeply, but expression is usually through liturgy and sacramental life, not public "gifts culture"

Church Structure

Catholic: global hierarchy
Orthodox: national jurisdictions, bishops in synod
Anglican: bishops, dioceses
Presbyterian: elders and presbyteries
Baptist/Congregational/Independent: congregational governance
ACC networks: local churches in a network with shared oversight and credentialing

"How Salvation Is Talked About"

Reformed/Presbyterian: strong emphasis on God's sovereignty, grace, covenant themes
Methodist/Nazarene/Apostolic Faith: strong emphasis on holiness and sanctification, human response and discipleship
Catholic/Orthodox: salvation as union with God and transformation over time, within the sacramental life of the Church
Baptist/Independent/Pentecostal: strong emphasis on conversion, personal faith, and mission

Worship Style

Orthodox and Catholic: highly liturgical, set prayers, icons (Orthodox), strong reverence
Anglican/Lutheran: often liturgical but can vary a lot
Reformed/Presbyterian/Baptist: usually Word-centred, simpler structure
Pentecostal/ACC/Charismatic: expressive, extended singing, spontaneous prayer
Uniting/Methodist: broad range, from traditional to contemporary

Distinctive "Tight Holds"

Catholic: Pope, Mary and saints, confession, Eucharist
Orthodox: icons, ancient liturgy, fasting rhythms, "received tradition"
Baptist: believer's baptism, local church autonomy
Reformed/Presbyterian: doctrine of grace, elder-led governance, preaching central
Lutheran: justification by faith as a flagship, sacraments honoured
Adventist: Saturday Sabbath, health emphasis, end-times framework
Salvation Army: mission and mercy focus, no formal sacraments
Apostolic Faith: Holiness-Pentecostal, sanctification emphasis, often conservative lifestyle
Churches of Christ: "New Testament pattern" emphasis, often weekly communion, baptism strongly emphasised
Uniting: ecumenical identity, broad theological spectrum

Personality, Style, and Denomination

A pastoral clarification for our community

At times, differences in personality or communication style can be misunderstood as indicators of theological or denominational identity. A high-energy, expressive leader may be assumed to be Pentecostal. A quieter, more reserved presence may be assumed to be Catholic, Anglican, or "less charismatic." These assumptions are understandable, but they are ultimately inaccurate and unhelpful.

Personality and theology are not the same thing. Style, energy, tone, and expressiveness are human traits, not doctrinal statements. There are lively and outspoken Catholics, Anglicans, and Orthodox Christians, just as there are reflective, introverted Pentecostals and Evangelicals. Every tradition of the Church contains a wide range of personalities and ways of worshipping God.

MORE INFORMATION

Scripture consistently points us away from judging by outward expression and toward unity in Christ. The Apostle Paul writes, "The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice" (Philippians 1:18). Paul rejoices not in style, but in Christ being made known. Elsewhere, he reminds us that the Church is one body with many parts, each needed and each different (1 Corinthians 12).

Throughout Christian history, the Church has affirmed unity without uniformity. The early Church Fathers taught that while expressions of faith may differ, the core of the faith remains one and the same. A person's ability to speak passionately or quietly does not add to, or subtract from, the truth of the gospel. As the Church has long recognised:

"In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity."

Within Christian Arts USA, this distinction matters deeply. It becomes dangerous to our shared life when personality is conflated with denominational identity. When this happens, assumptions replace curiosity, and suspicion replaces trust. We are called, instead, to approach one another with humility and openness.

Our leadership reflects this reality. For example, our leader Ryan is an enthusiastic and expressive communicator. On first impression, some may assume he is Pentecostal. Yet his formation spans Catholic schooling, Pentecostal ministry training, philosophical study within a Catholic theological institution, and ongoing life in an Anglican church. His energy reflects his personality and calling, not a narrow denominational label. His story reminds us that there is always more beneath the surface, and that Christians are called to be curious rather than quick to judge.

As a community, we are committed to valuing both expressive joy and quiet depth, both spontaneity and reverence. These are not competing spiritualities, but complementary ones. The Holy Spirit works through many temperaments, many traditions, and many ways of being faithful.

Our calling is to listen well, assume generously, and discern by fruit rather than flavour. If Christ is being honoured, if love is present, and if unity is being preserved, then the style through which that occurs is secondary.

As Paul urges us, let us "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4:3). In doing so, we reflect the breadth, beauty, and maturity of the Church, and we allow our organisation to remain a place where many voices can sing together as one.

Delve Deeper Into Our Vision for Ecumenism at Christian Arts USA

Ecumenism at CAUSA

Statement of Faith & Cannon

We stand within the historic, orthodox faith of the Church. Holy Scripture is the divinely inspired Word of God, received by the Church as a faithful and authoritative witness to God's self-revelation in Jesus Christ. Through Scripture, the Church is continually formed, instructed, and renewed, and all teaching is discerned and tested in faithfulness to the apostolic witness, as Scripture is received, proclaimed, and lived within the life of the Church.

The Niceno-Constantinopolitan Creed (381 AD) is our shared confession and authoritative summary of the Apostolic faith, received across time, culture, and denomination. We affirm this Creed as our common rule of faith, expressing the Church's unified confession of the Triune God and the saving work of Jesus Christ.

For the sake of shared study, prayer, and teaching across our diverse Christian traditions, we adopt the sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments as a common scriptural foundation for our corporate life, while recognising that some traditions also receive additional books as part of their wider canonical heritage. This shared foundation enables unity without requiring uniformity.

For our internal liturgical and teaching use, the New Revised Standard Version Anglicised (NRSVA) is chosen for its scholarly rigour and broad acceptance across Christian traditions.

Our Respect for Historic Christian Morality

We affirm the moral vision of historic Christianity as something received, not invented. Rooted in our confession of Jesus Christ as true God and true man, this vision seeks the formation of the whole person — body, soul, and spirit — into the likeness of Christ.

Christian Arts USA respects and shows visible honour toward the traditional beliefs, moral teachings, philosophical wolrd-views, and ethical vision received by the Church through Scripture and faithfully expressed in the lived faith of believers across the centuries. We hold these convictions as belonging to the consistent witness of the Church across its many traditions, and we seek to reflect them faithfully in our corporate life, communal fellowship, internal gatherings, and public witness.

We also affirm that moral formation is a lifelong journey of grace, growth, repentance, and renewal, held with humility, patience, and pastoral care.

Recommended

Things to Say

Inclusive Language

Use terms that honour all Christian traditions present. Speak to our shared faith journey.

Community Focus

Refer to "our gathering" or "our community" rather than denominational-specific terms.

Shared Beliefs

Focus on love, grace, service, and unity in Christ. These transcend tradition.

Celebrate Diversity

Acknowledge the richness that different traditions bring to our worship together.

Ecumenical Unity

"One Lord, one faith, one baptism" and "We come as one Church under Jesus"

Mary and Saints

"We honour the great cloud of witnesses who've gone before us"

Authority & History

"We stand in the historic Christian faith" and "We're grateful for the Church across time and across traditions"

Baptism

"Baptism is a gift of God, a sign of belonging to Christ"

Holy Spirit

"Holy Spirit, come and help us worship" and "Lord, move among us with Your peace and power"

Salvation

"Jesus saves us by grace" and "We repent and trust in Christ"

Worship Expression

"However you're most comfortable, let's worship" and "Let's make room for reverence and joy"

End Times

"Jesus is Lord, and His kingdom is unshakable"

Social Issues

"Let's love our neighbour and pray for our leaders"

Worship Leading Phrases

"Let's sing this together"
"In one voice we sing"
"Adopt a posture of worship"
"If you're able, please stand"
"Thank you, God, that you are ever present with us"
"Thank you, God, that you are here with us"
"Thank you God for the power of worshipping together"
"Thank you, God, that we get to worship together tonight as one."
"Thank you for saving us from our sin"

Building Unity Through Words

Use Universal Scripture

Choose references recognised across all Christian traditions. The Gospel unites us.

Emphasise What We Share

Speak about "what unites us" rather than differences. Common ground strengthens community.

Express Gratitude

Thank participants for the opportunity to worship and serve together. Appreciation builds bonds.

Important

Things to Avoid Summery

Avoid Personality Stereotypes

Do not link personality traits with specific denominations.

Limit Denominational Jargon

Use inclusive language, avoiding terms specific to one tradition.

No Superiority Claims

Refrain from suggesting one tradition is better than another.

Bypass Controversial Theology

Focus on shared beliefs, not points of significant doctrinal difference.

Respect Worship Diversity

Recognize and respect varied worship practices.

Forgo Denominational Jokes

Avoid humor that might alienate or mock other traditions.

Steer Clear of Divisive Commentary

Omit political or social statements that could create division.

Mary and Saints

Avoid phrases like "Catholics worship Mary" or jokes about statues, beads, or icons.

Authority

Do not say "We don't need tradition, just me and my Bible" or make dismissive remarks about "The Pope," "Orthodoxy," or "Protestants."

Baptism

Avoid statements like "Infant baptism doesn't count" or "If you were baptised as a baby you're not really baptised."

Holy Spirit Gifts

Do not say "If you're not speaking in tongues you don't have the Spirit" or "Tongues are fake/emotionalism."

Salvation

Refrain from insisting "Say this exact prayer now or you're not saved" or engaging in salvation debates.

Worship

Avoid prescriptive statements such as "Everyone lift your hands" or "If you're not dancing you're dead inside."

End Times

Do not present detailed timelines or name current events as prophetic fulfilment.

Politics

Steer clear of remarks like "If you vote X you're not Christian" or culture-war speeches.

Superiority

Avoid declarations such as "Our movement is the real revival" or "Other churches have it wrong."

Worship Leading Phrases to Avoid

"Please stand" (use "If you're able, please stand" instead)
"Lift your hands"
"We invite the Holy Spirit to come"
"Let's all sing in the spirit"
"When two or three are gathered there you are with us" (note: the context of this scripture is about relational reparation, not worship)
"We worship as ONE Church" (alienating for Catholics)
"Thank you that we are saved" (does not suit a Catholic or Orthodox soteriology)

For specific guidance on sensitive topics like Mary and the Saints, Baptism, Holy Spirit gifts, and more, see the 'Navigating Sensitive Theological Topics' card.

Navigating Speaking & Prayer with an Ecumenical Sense

These topics require special care. Here's how to speak about them in ways that honour all traditions present.

Mary and the Saints

Use:

"We honour the great cloud of witnesses who've gone before us."
"Lord, help us to follow the faith of those who loved You across the centuries."
"We join the worship of the whole Church in heaven and on earth."

Avoid:

"Catholics worship Mary" (it'll land like a slap)
"Praying to saints is idolatry" (same)
Any jokes about statues, beads, icons, or "religion" (not worth it)

Authority, Church History, and Leadership

Use:

"We stand in the historic Christian faith."
"We submit ourselves to Christ and His Word."
"We're grateful for the Church across time and across traditions."

Avoid:

"We don't need tradition, just me and my Bible"
"The Pope is… / Orthodoxy is… / Protestants are…" (no reviews from the stage)

Baptism (infant vs believer's baptism)

Use:

"Baptism is a gift of God, a sign of belonging to Christ."
"Jesus calls us to follow Him with our whole lives."
"Lord, renew in us the grace of our baptism."

Avoid:

"Infant baptism doesn't count"
"If you were baptised as a baby you're not really baptised"
"Baptism is optional / unnecessary" (also divisive)

Holy Spirit Gifts (tongues, prophecy, healing)

Use:

"Holy Spirit, come and help us worship."
"Lord, move among us with Your peace and power."
"We're open to whatever You want to do, in a way that builds up the whole Church."

Avoid:

"If you're not speaking in tongues you don't have the Spirit"
"Tongues are fake / emotionalism"
Public "call-outs" like "Someone here has a knee problem in row 7" (unless pre-approved and pastorally supported)

Salvation Language (how you phrase the Gospel)

Use:

"Jesus saves us by grace."
"We repent and trust in Christ."
"Lord, draw us to Yourself."

Avoid:

"Say this exact prayer now or you're not saved"
"Once saved always saved" or "You can lose your salvation" debates (save for theology pub night)

Worship Expression (hands, kneeling, silence, liturgy)

Use:

"However you're most comfortable, let's worship."
"You're welcome to stand, sit, be still, sing strongly, or pray quietly."
"Let's make room for reverence and joy."

Avoid:

"Everyone lift your hands"
"If you're not dancing you're dead inside" (funny, but no)
"Liturgy is dead" or "Free worship is chaotic" (both will annoy someone holy)

End Times and Spiritual Warfare

Use:

"Jesus is Lord, and His kingdom is unshakable."
"We belong to Christ, and He is faithful."
"Lord, deliver us from evil."

Avoid:

Detailed end-times timelines
Naming current events as prophetic fulfilment
"Demons are definitely in this rehearsal room" (mate, we're musicians, we're stressed enough)

Social and Political Issues

Use:

"Let's love our neighbour and pray for our leaders."
"Lord, make us people of truth and compassion."
"Give us wisdom and courage to follow You."

Avoid:

Party politics, culture-war speeches, hot takes
"If you vote X you're not Christian" (instant unity-killer)

Ecumenical Unity Language (your safe superpower)

Use:

"One Lord, one faith, one baptism."
"We come as one Church under Jesus."
"Across traditions, we share the same centre: Christ crucified and risen."

Avoid:

"Our movement is the real revival"
"Other churches have it wrong"
"We're fixing what the Church got wrong"

15-Second "Mic Check" Before You Speak or Pray

Ask yourself:

Can a Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican, Baptist, and Pentecostal all say "Amen" to this?
Does this help worship, not win an argument?
Is this short enough that musicians won't start tuning loudly over me?

Prayer

Guidance for Leading Prayer

Use this inclusive approach when leading the group in prayer. It honours diverse traditions.

Before Beginning

"If it's part of your tradition when you pray to make the sign of the cross, please feel encouraged to do so."

During Prayer

Lead the community in prayer. Keep language accessible and inclusive throughout.

At the End

Conclude with "In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."

Important Note

Don't begin with "In the name of the Father..." at the start. Only use it at the end.

This prayer framework honours those who make the sign of the cross. Catholic, Orthodox, and Anglican traditions practise this.

It remains accessible to those who don't. Everyone feels welcome to participate authentically. No one feels excluded or pressured.

The trinitarian closing unites all Christian traditions. It affirms our shared faith foundation.

Key Principle

Invitation, not prescription. Allow traditions to flourish whilst maintaining unity.

More Inclusive Prayer Language

General Prayers

"We honour the great cloud of witnesses who've gone before us"
"Lord, help us to follow the faith of those who loved You across the centuries"
"We join the worship of the whole Church in heaven and on earth"
"Jesus saves us by grace"
"Lord, draw us to Yourself"
"Lord, deliver us from evil"
"Let's love our neighbour and pray for our leaders"
"Lord, make us people of truth and compassion"

Authority & Church History

"We submit ourselves to Christ and His Word"
"We're grateful for the Church across time and across traditions"

Baptism

"Lord, renew in us the grace of our baptism"
"Jesus calls us to follow Him with our whole lives"

Holy Spirit

"Holy Spirit, come and help us worship"
"Lord, move among us with Your peace and power"
"We're open to whatever You want to do, in a way that builds up the whole Church"