|
BCMC JOURNAL 2005
Effective Stage
Communication
By Mark James
It is no secret that we are an
incredibly visually oriented society. Statistics prove
we remember less than 30% of a verbal message. However,
when we do something to enhance the verbal message, i.e.
using better non-verbal communication skills, drama,
etc, that percentage increases to 70%. With this
statistic in mind, why are our church services often
described as "boring"?
On Sunday mornings, whenever the "Minister of
Announcements" or the worship leader gets up to
initially greet everyone, welcome them, etc. it is
imperative that they know how to communicate. That first
impression sets the pace for what follows. It is equally
important that a pastor know how to effectively convey
his message. Singers, choir members soloists, and any of
the "up-fronters" MUST know how to communicate the
Gospel message in a way that draws people in. If we
aren't involved and passionate about what we say on
Sundays, then our congregation won't be.
We are over-exposed to people who can already
effectively communicate an array of subjects through the
news, MTV, and a plethora of other cable channels; these
people are in the business of communication. So do we
just ignore that on Sundays? Hardly. We are more
influenced by the actions we see than the words we hear.
Words are important, they are the foundation. But that
is just the launching pad:
I. Visual Component of Communication
A. Carries most of the message
B. Stage communication is an elevated form of
communication
1. More animated than day to day conversation
2. We have to do what may feel unnatural until it
becomes natural
II. Facial Energy
A. You must work the entire room: front, back, side to
side
B. The eyes are the key
C. Strive for interaction with the congregation, not
just words
D. Glasses are another layer that the audience must get
through to see you
III. Gestures
A. Bad habits surface here
B. Be purposeful
C. Do NOT choreograph it
D. Above the waist is stronger
E. Examples
IV. Vocal Energy
A. You have to be prepared
B. Variety is key
Conclusion
In all these areas, there is nothing written that says
by practicing we still can't be open to the Lord's
guidance. As a matter of fact, if we are more prepared,
I think we will be more attuned to that very thing. It
is our responsibility to be the vessel. We are not the
message. But our vessel has got to be appealing and less
distracting so that the message is not lost in our lack
of effective communication.
In all of this, there is no true substitute for the
person who has a love for the Lord and it shows on their
face. But, most of us aren't all that comfortable when
we get in front of others. Statistics prove we have a
higher fear of speaking in public than dying. We become
self-conscious and unnatural. With that in mind, I have
worked with praise teams, actors, and some choirs on
this very thing. When they get it, when they understand
that the package must be appealing, that their love for
God has GOT to show on their face and in the way they
communicate, ministry happens.
Mark James is a professional actor and drama consultant
residing in Nashville, Tennessee. He is a graduate of
Southwestern Seminary and has toured professionally with
"The Company," a repertory theatre ministry based in
Fort Worth, Texas.
|
