When we think about working in “the ministry�, we think of preaching, or missions work--Something that involves standing up in front of a lot of people, moving them with words and convictions. But there are other areas of ministry requiring a lot less face time with the audience.

What the congregation sees at the pulpit or on stage is only a part of a larger program that may require exciting and fast-paced work by faithful volunteers running the sound system behind the scenes, to support and strengthen the presentation.

Sound Ministry is vital, since everything audible runs through the sound system. It involves more than just spinning CD’s. There are always challenges when you’re trying to incorporate Audio with Audience, and it’s all in the mix!

Ever hear the system squeal when someone moves around, or gets too close to the microphone?
Is there a ring in here??
And what killed the microphone?
Where is that hum coming from?

These are a few of the issues in a sound tech’s job.

So what, exactly, is a sound technician?

There are different names, and different jobs. Generally, a Sound Technician, often called a “Sound Man� is someone who operates the sound board, or the box that controls almost every microphone, speaker, amplifier, headset, and electronic auditory/projection device in the building. He (or she) is very much like a D.J., with a lot more control. Everything plugged into the board is controlled by the technician who runs it. Think of it in a church setting as “the hand that rocks the cradle…�

This is a great ministry for someone who wants the excitement of being an important and vital part of ministry, but who prefers to stay in the background. (Hey, we’re not ALL cut out for public speaking, and we DON’T all belong in the choir!)

What does the Sound Man do?

“D.J.� is only a small part of the picture. The Sound Man makes sure the whole service will run smoothly, before it ever begins. In fact, his responsibilities start before anyone gets to church. The sound board has to be set to normal operating ranges. Speakers and amplifiers need to be hooked into the right channels. “The house� needs to be balanced. Wires need to be run and placed to eliminate tripping hazards or accidental disconnects. Tracks need to be cued and set to record. Levels need to be balanced between the house sound and recording levels, if something’s being recorded. Media aids such as videos, cassettes, and any other musical or visual presentations needed to be timed and coordinated to make sure everything goes off without a hitch. And it doesn’t end there.

Thanks to technology, we’re able to incorporate more media into every service to meet the visual and auditory needs of the congregation. According to many sources, this generation’s learning style is different, and requires more stimulation and interaction than traditional church services might provide. The sound technician works to balance all the audible presentations, and works hand-in-hand with other members of the media team to present engaging and stimulating programs to the congregation. “It’s a lot of work. The reward is in meeting the challenge and being a part of something big,� says Joey B., a sound technician with Donahue Family Church in Louisiana.

Think you might be interested in this ministry opportunity? Do you hunger for the chance to work with a team of people who support the pastor and worship team, and make great things happen in your area of influence? You can be a vital part of the mission work in your community, just by getting plugged in to this ministry opportunity.

Counting Down the Top 5 Ways to Get Plugged in to
Sound Ministry

At Number 5:
Willing to learn something you didn’t know? One way to get involved is to Hang around and ask questions. Not pesky ones that make it hard to do his job, but questions that indicate your interest. Ask about the sound board. “How many channels are you running?� “Who made the board?� (Well-known sound equipment manufacturers include Mackie, Heath and Allen, Yamaha, and SoundCraft, to name a few.) Best time to catch up with your sound guy is AFTER service, when he’s not under pressure.

Number 4
See the sound person juggling cords and equipment? Lend a hand. The sound department is actually a team of volunteers willing to do whatever it takes to create a smooth presentation of the gospel. Willingness to work is the first sign and the greatest asset of a dedicated sound tech.

Number 3
Don’t see the sound tech at church? Sometimes they’re hard to catch up with, and may be behind the scenes working with equipment. Sound techs really seem to love their jobs! So if you have a hard time catching up with your sound team, ask your pastor. There’s always room for another volunteer.

Number 2
Check it out! Want to learn the lingo before you dive in? Go online. Websites like www.churchmedia.net contain a wealth of information, where you’ll learn about relevant sound issues. They even have a forum where you can talk to other technicians. Participants range from tech’s who run small boards to mega monsters, and you’ll learn a lot by asking questions here! Also try www.AllProSound.com

Number 1
It doesn’t take a degree, or any classes to start running sound. Most churches need several workers on their sound team. Even smaller churches need people willing to invest their efforts. Sometimes a sound team starts out with one or two overworked guys! If you can be available for more than just the church services, and ESPECIALLY if your schedule is flexible, make it known! You can be a vital member of this important ministry! Bottom line?
The Number 1 way to get involved is to make yourself available, and make your interest known!

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