Perfectionism in Christian Musical Worship
Pastors and church leaders are not immune from perfectionism; in fact perfectionism is very common in the church. Does this attitude of perfectionism held by leaders effect their ministry and their congregations? I intend to prove, through scholarly sources and research that perfectionism is sometimes dangerous but can be handled in a healthy way. This research address primarily church leaders and pastors but is also relevant to anyone involved in a church, especially worship. First, I explore a Christian perspective of perfection in comparison to a secular psychological one. Second, I research musical worship and the spiritual formation that happens when one worships. I also explore how perfectionism effects this formation process, and if the attitudes of the leader play a role. Third, I will demonstrate what types of perfectionism are dangerous in business leadership roles and apply them to the church structures. This research establishes that some forms of perfectionism and beneficial to healthy striving, but some are obsessive and damaging. I will conclude by giving some practical tips for how to manage perfectionism in yourself, and how to lead without leaving a bad example for our volunteers and congregations.
CM 499, Senior Capstone
David Reed
Pomajevich 103
10 – 10:30 AM