The pastoral role here is profound and beyond price. The enormous privilege of leading our people in renewed dedication to the God of Abraham and Isaac, of Peter and Paul is not to be taken lightly. It is much more than choosing the hymns, songs and choruses, selecting some readings and preaching a good sermon. Anything less will leave then empty and unsatisfied. Be wise in establishing expectations regarding the use of time.
Pastors can be woefully insensitive to the demands made upon their lay leaders.
Deacons' meetings which nudge midnight are no fun for those who have to be on the train, on the road, or at the airport by 7.00 or earlier the next morning. Most pastors can catch their breath after a marathon meeting calmly forgetting that their leaders cannot. One also has to wonder about those Saturday morning breakfasts for prayer and planning. Not only do we do a good job keeping people out at night, we then rob them of a slow start on what may be the only morning available to them. Encourage your leadership to reflect on each experience of worship.