Worship leader Janna Pastin, Nashville TN

I’ve had a beef the last several years with an issue that seems to be getting worse: “over exposure”. And I’m not talking about the sun.

Maybe it’s just me getting older and each generation has thought this way, but I’m seeing more and more skin on women all the time, and it’s too much – especially in church.

For certain cultures or situations, showing a little skin is not an issue, but when it comes to being on the platform in front of a congregation, it’s a problem!

Don’t get me wrong – I’m not a prude. I like to be as fashionable as the next girl. But wearing clothes that are too tight, too low-cut, or too short can be a definite distraction for people trying to engage in worship.

Just like we’d tell singers and players that constantly moving your leg to the beat, or any number of other things is a distraction, your clothing – or lack thereof – can be a distraction.

You can be hip and trendy without being overexposed. Sometimes it takes a little more creativity, but it can be done without turning you frumpy. No one wants to see cleavage when they are trying to worship.

Our worship leader had to set some guidelines for the women on the team, as there were some questionable choices being made from time to time… for example, no leggings without your top covering the crotch area. Cuz seriously, guys have enough trouble keeping their imaginations in check without giving them any help!

In addressing the skirt length issue, she referred us to our congregation’s beloved 80-yr-old Pastor Buck. She said, “Pretend you are standing on your kitchen table, and Pastor Buck is sitting a few feet away. Do you feel okay with what you have on?” Point taken.

Worship leader Leann Albrecht has lots more to say on this. Check out her article ‘The Fine Line of Fashion – Sensuous or Virtuous’…