Contemporary worship leaders are central figures in North American church life, yet they remain underrepresented in scholarly research. Their work sits at the intersection of ecclesial life and the music industry, a space fraught with inherent challenges. The Worship Leader Wellness and Music Equity Initiative, part of the larger Worship Leader Research (WLR) project, addresses two key issues: the mental health of worship leaders and equity in industry-published resources.
We will address these issues through two major tasks. First, in 2025, we will conduct a nationwide survey of worship leaders to assess wellness and equity indicators. This will shed light on significant church pressures, professional practices, and the broader culture of an industrialized worship music leadership. Second, in 2026, we will convene key church, academic, and industry stakeholders in Nashville, Tennessee, to discuss these challenges and develop strategies for enhancing wellness and equity.
Since 2023, the Worship Leader Research (WLR) project team has made a significant impact, sparking conversations and reaching hundreds of thousands through social media, publications, podcasts, and academic presentations. Our five-member team, consisting of three academics, a full-time pastor, and a worship artist, brings a wealth of experience and expertise in worship leadership to this initiative.