Singing the Self: Exploring the Role of Congregational Song in Identity Formation

Abstract

This dissertation evaluates aspects of identity formation research, drawn fromthe social sciences, and interprets the findings from a Christian theological perspective. I argue that liturgical practices provide believers, individually and corporately, an avenue for identity-formation within the context of worship, for in worship Christians rehearse the past and hope for the future with a redemptive lens. Finally, the dissertation analyzes the themes of self-identity in an identified core repertory of the most-used contemporary congregational worship songs in evangelical churches from 2005 through 2020, and argues that congregational songs play a unique role in identity formation in a postmodern society.

Chapter 1 introduces the argument of the dissertation. Chapter 2 charts thelandscape of contemporary self-identity by evaluating Anthony Giddens’s concept of the “reflexive self,” which liberates individuals to construct self-identity apart from tradition and culture. Then, exploring the opportunities and limitations of reflexivity, it presents an alternative vision of reflexivity that locates the necessity for Christian gatherings, liturgies, and congregational singing. It concludes by suggesting Jeremy Pierre’s paradigm of the dynamic heart, and the role of faith provides the biblical basis for how self-identity is both received and shaped. Chapter 3 traces the role of relationships in identity and engages with reflections on selfhood through the works of Charles Taylor. In addition, the chapter discusses relational practices within the liturgy. Portrayals of relationships are also examined in Contemporary Worship Music (CWM) in three categories—God, others, and self. Chapter 4 examines the role of emotions in identity by surveying Erik Erikson’s human development and psychosocial identity theory, explores the liturgical implications, and establishes a taxonomy for evaluating “conflict” and “resolute” emotions in CWM. Chapter 5 examines the theme of status coined by psychologist, James Marcia, discusses lament and dedication as liturgical expressions of status, and establishes a taxonomy for evaluating “exploration” and “commitment” language in CWM.Chapter 6 proposes general implications for worship planners and suggested areas for further study related to this topic.