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Why Does Church Music Still Matter in Worship Today? A Conversation with Rick Seaton

Apr 14, 2026    Nate Preisinger, Rick Seaton

What is worship actually meant to be? In this conversation, Pastor Nate sits down with Bethany’s Director of Music, Rick Seaton, to talk about the role music plays in shaping faith, community, and the experience of worship. Together, they explore the depth of Lutheran musical tradition, the tension between old and new, and why worship is about something far deeper than personal preference. This is a fun conversation with two people who truly appreciate the power music can play in your life. 

What You’ll Learn:

Why music has always been central to the life of faith

What makes worship feel grounded, meaningful, and alive

The role of tradition in shaping how we experience God

Why participation matters more than preference

How churches can think differently about worship today

Chapters:

00:00 Why this conversation took 6 years to happen

01:00 Rick’s journey into church music

03:00 Why Lutherans have such a strong musical tradition

06:00 Why churches don’t create music like they used to

09:00 Why variety in worship actually matters

11:00 Contemporary vs. traditional worship

13:00 Why people are returning to deeper practices

17:00 Why quality and intention matter in worship

20:00 What churches should focus on moving forward

26:00 What music is really meant to do

27:00 A powerful Good Friday reflection

31:00 Why music has always been part of faith

34:00 The importance of singing together

36:00 Creating new music for the church

38:00 Final thoughts on worship and creativity

And if you’re in the Denver area join Rick for the Get Outta Here Postludes Concert at Bethany Lutheran Church, May 1st at 7pm! More info here: https://www.bethany-arts.org/


Connect with Bethany:

📍 Bethany Lutheran Church – Denver, CO

🌐 Learn more: www.bethany-denver.org