I’ve been posting a few of our program sheets from our weekend service lately – in part because quite a few people have been asking for them and in part because I think they are something very important to use each week, especially at your entry-level service. You can check out examples from the past two weekends in review (Happy week 1 and week 2) if you missed it. While ours aren’t perfect, my plan is to soon post about how to create a great program sheet. In the meantime, here are a few reasons why they are such an effective tool for your on-stage programs:

It helps everyone know what to do
The most basic function of a program sheet is to simply tell the team what is happening next up front. It keeps everyone in the loop, from the kid running sound to the student giving her testimony. The program sheet is a great communicator to keep everyone informed.

It helps you see the flow/emotion
I love seeing the big picture – and a program sheet helps you see if all of the elements are coming together. It lets you make adjustments and cuts quickly, and have a spot for specific notes to debrief. If someone is timing each element as well, that can be very helpful when identifying what is dragging.

It makes sure you are prepared
When you have a program sheet, you have to be prepared. Each element has been thought through and ready to go. While there’s still room for last-minute changes, it helps keep you focused on what needs to be done. I used to be famous for the Sunday night specials (stoplight sermon prep on the way to church) but not anymore!

It identifies ruts you might be in
If there’s one thing I am always leery of, it is predictability. I love it when a service contains something unexpected – some sort of an “oh man I didn’t see that coming moment.” Having a weekly program sheet gives you an “at a glance” look at your student ministry week to week. Maybe it’s time to change it up, drop in a video or try a special speaker.

It helps you be gone
This weekend … I’m out of here. We always plan a family weekend away in October after the launch of small groups and the kickoff to the school year. We need it so badly right now, too. Of course, I’ve got a great volunteer teaching this weekend (Doug Fields – ha!) and the program sheet gives me the security that everything will be fine while I’m enjoying the airshow with my family.

JG