Uniting Tradition and Modern Worship: Lessons from Episode 137 of the Overflow Worship Podcast

Worship leaders are often caught between the tension of honoring tradition and embracing contemporary expressions of faith. In Episode 137 of the Overflow Worship Podcast, Andrea Olson speaks with Ryanne Molinari, a traditional worship director and organist, about bridging these two worlds and cultivating a heart of service in worship leadership. Their conversation offers valuable insights for worship leaders navigating diverse congregations and balancing personal growth with ministry demands.

A Unique Worship Journey

Ryanne Molinari’s story is as unique as her role as a church organist. With a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from Biola University, her journey began with piano in Sunday school but evolved into a love for the organ.

“Every year, some opportunity for the organ would come up, whether it was a scholarship or a job,” Ryanne recalls.

It was during her time in Scotland pursuing a master’s degree in Theology and the Arts that she fell in love with the organ, seeing it as both a musical and spiritual refuge.

Today, Ryanne balances leading traditional worship at one church and participating in contemporary services at another, where her husband pastors. This dual involvement allows her to both serve and be ministered to.

She reflects, “I get to use my gifts in one place and then go be filled in another.”

Bridging Tradition and Contemporary Worship

Ryanne’s experience offers a blueprint for uniting traditional and modern worship styles.

She believes that embracing both is essential, as “scripture continually tells us to sing a new song.”

While she naturally leans toward traditional styles, she values the innovation of contemporary worship and emphasizes their interconnectedness: “When I’m listening to contemporary worship, I’m not seeing it as its own thing—it’s part of the great history of Christian artistry.”

This perspective is particularly helpful for churches striving to integrate diverse styles of worship. Ryanne encourages worship leaders to see worship music—old and new—as a gift: “An heirloom or a new gift, they’re both valuable.” Her approach challenges us to move beyond preferences and focus on worship’s purpose: glorifying God and edifying His people.

Cultivating a Heart of Service

A major theme of the episode is shifting the focus of worship from personal preferences to service and community. Ryanne shares a humbling story about a song she initially disliked but later embraced because it ministered deeply to her congregation.

“It’s not about me,” she says. “It’s about what’s building up the body.”

This mindset ties into her forthcoming book, Spirit-Filled Singing: Bearing Fruit as We Worship Together, which explores the connection between congregational singing and the fruit of the Spirit. Ryanne explains, “When we sing well, it cultivates the fruit of the Spirit in the church.”

Each chapter of her book focuses on a different fruit and its relationship to music ministry, offering practical ways worship leaders can lead from a place of love, peace, and joy.

Practical Takeaways for Worship Leaders

1. See Worship as a Gift: Approach both traditional and contemporary styles with gratitude. “Our worship is not an island,” Ryanne reminds us. “We’re connected to generations of Christians who came before us.”
2. Evaluate for Usefulness: Whether choosing songs or auditioning volunteers, Ryanne suggests asking, “Is this useful for the church?” This perspective helps make decisions that serve the congregation’s spiritual growth.
3. Cultivate Community: Avoid dividing worship services into “traditional” and “contemporary” silos. Ryanne shares, “It bothers me when Christians won’t attend the other service. Worship should unite, not separate.”
4. Prioritize Spiritual Formation: Worship isn’t just about music—it’s about bearing fruit. Ryanne’s advice? Focus on what worship is doing in and through the congregation.

Looking Ahead

Ryanne’s passion for worship and the church shines through her ministry, writing, and music. While her book is still in progress, she regularly shares snippets of her work and creative endeavors on her blog and Instagram. As Andrea notes, Ryanne’s perspective is a reminder that worship leadership is about more than song selection—it’s about fostering a spirit-filled community that glorifies God.

As you reflect on your own worship leadership journey, consider Ryanne’s invitation to embrace both tradition and innovation. By seeing worship as a gift and focusing on serving your congregation, you can lead from the overflow, not the overwhelm.

For more Overflow Worship resources click here and visit our website.

Watch the Overflow Worship Podcast here on YouTube.

Listen to the Podcast on  Spotify and Apple Music.