Congregational life can be deeply impacted by the working relationships of church staff. Pastors and musicians are often in close proximity in ministry, and yet that closeness does not always translate into healthy working relationships. This doctoral project and thesis sought to explore how musician/pastor dynamics can present a challenge for the local church, apply a narrative methodology at First Presbyterian Church in Oklahoma City by utilizing the Psalms as a metaphor for togetherness, and discover ways to move from dissonances into a healthier relational ministry and collegiality.

Increasing dialogue between pastors and musicians was only one goal. The Project, rooted in narrative research and an exploration of the Psalms, sought to enhance the congregational life and spiritual formation of First Presbyterian Church members, combining forces of the musicians and pastors, thereby aiding in a synthesis and confluence of our music ministry and Christian formation efforts. Through a six-week Psalm study that engaged people in creativity, narrative exploration, and art, and then through an interview process, we sought to transform the past into a bold new future of togetherness, rather than continue past narratives of divisiveness, dissonance, or separation.

This project and process of narrative methodology raised awareness of these divergences and facilitated change, exploration, expression, and deeper understandings of self and systems. As we explored stories of dissonance and dialogue through the lens of family systems and through creatively employing the Psalms, we charted a new Narrative of Harmony. As leaders, we helped shape the narrative into a more authentic expression of what we believe God is leading us to do at First Presbyterian Church. We provided a network of togetherness for pastors and musicians to increase collaboration, to showcase that togetherness to the congregation, and to transform relationships and attitudes along the way.