Catching Up with Parkway's Worship Team (Just in Time for Christmas Happenings!)
There’s something powerful that happens when a room full of people lifts their voices together in worship. It’s more than music. It’s more than a moment. It’s a sacred space where hearts are aligned, burdens are lifted, and God meets his people right where they are. With the Christmas season in full swing, there’s an added sense of anticipation in the air at Parkway Church. Each of our upcoming holiday moments is designed to help us pause, reflect, and celebrate what God has done—and what He’s still going to do.
Recently, we caught up with Melissa Peters, Parkway’s Music Director and worship leader, to talk about the heart behind Parkway’s worship ministry and what makes these moments so meaningful week after week.
The Importance Of Worship At Parkway Church
Worship has always been central to the life of believers. Scripture reminds us, “God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth” (John 4:24). Worship isn’t just about singing songs. It’s about offering our hearts fully to God. It’s how we realign our focus, surrender our distractions, and create space for him to speak.
At Parkway, worship moments are intentionally designed to do just that. They unify our church family and prepare our hearts to receive a word from the Lord. Melissa explained that worship isn’t something to gloss over. Every song, every prayer, and every moment of worship at Parkway is aimed at pointing people to Jesus.
“As a worship leader I never want to take this opportunity that God has given me lightly, because we are leading people from brokenness to healing.”
Our Worship Leader’s Beginnings
Melissa’s journey into worship ministry didn’t start with confidence or a desire to be in front of people. In fact, it began with obedience. About 22 years ago, her parents helped start a church, and Melissa and her family stepped in wherever help was needed—including music.
“It was not in my comfort zone to be a worship leader or be in front of people at all,” she shared. Over time, God reshaped that hesitation into calling. “I’ve learned that it’s not about me and my talent, but about being willing to do what he wants us to do and to be anointed.”
That heart of surrender still defines Melissa’s leadership today, reminding us that when we align with God’s will, he supplies everything we need.
A Peek Into The Worship Team’s Process
While worship may feel effortless at Parkway on Sunday mornings, there’s intentional preparation behind every moment. Melissa explained that connection to God comes first. “We prepare first off in prayer,” she said. “So that he can help us for the moments we need to be ready for,” That prayerful preparation helps the worship team stay sensitive to what God wants to do each week.
From there, the worship team members practice individually before arriving early on Sunday mornings for sound check. They then gather at 7:30 a.m. to ensure everything is aligned musically and spiritually. And throughout it all, there’s a constant reminder of purpose.
“We are reminded every Sunday as a team that this is not about us… it’s ALL about Him! We GET to do this and we’re honored that God uses us.”
Behind The Scenes: Unsung Heroes Of Parkway’s Worship Team
Some of the most important contributors to our worship never step on stage. Melissa explained that Parkway’s Projection and Sound teams play a critical role in every service. The projection team prepares lyrics ahead of time so both the congregation and worship team can fully engage without distraction. The sound team ensures every voice and instrument is heard clearly and in balance. “Without this team no one would hear what we’re singing,” Melissa said.
These teams’ attention to detail allows our worship moments to flow smoothly, creating an environment where people can focus on God.
What’s Coming Up for Parkway’s Worship Moments?
As the year comes to a close, Parkway has several special worship gatherings ahead. Each one offers a unique opportunity to invite someone, celebrate together, and encounter God in a meaningful way.
Christmas Concert TOMORROW!
Join us tomorrow, Sunday, December 14th at 10 A.M., for a special Christmas Concert that celebrates the true meaning of the season. With songs performed by both Kidz Parkway and our adult choir, you won’t want to miss the festive music!
Melissa shared that attendees can expect “a truly powerful, anointed worship experience through singing, prayer, and scripture readings.” It will be a joyful celebration of our Savior’s birth and a perfect opportunity to invite friends and family!
Christmas Service
Our Christmas Service is on Sunday, December 21st at 10 A.M. will continue that celebration, centering our hearts on Jesus. Expect worship that is joyful, reflective, and rooted in the truth of Scripture as we honor Christ—the true reason for Christmas.
New Year’s Eve Service
Parkway will close out the year together on Wednesday, December 31st at 7 P.M. This evening service will be a time to contemplate, give thanks, and look ahead with faith. As Melissa put it, it’s a chance “to celebrate the past year and to reflect and give thanks for all the blessings that God has done for us and to get excited for what God has planned for us for the new year.”
Join Our Worshipful Celebrations!
Worship at Parkway is more than a Sunday routine. It’s a shared journey of faith, healing, and hope. As we step into this special season, we invite you to be part of our festive happenings. Join us for our upcoming worship moments, bring someone with you, and experience what God is doing through Parkway’s heartfelt worship moments!
If you can’t join us in-person, check out our Live Stream for these services!