Hi, Bob - I guess I'd describe "worship songs" as hymns that are oriented toward people who like pop music. They tend to have "commercial" arrangements and instrumentation, and require amplification. Oftentimes, they are intended to appeal to teenagers. And oftentimes, I like them, especially if the lyrics give me something to think about.

"Praise songs" are the ones that draw criticism. They are usually single phrases repeated over and over again. And over and over again. And over and over again, often accompanied by the waving of hands. They can be fun to sing and can make people feel good, but the lyrics rarely make people think. Sometimes, it seems that the lyrics are intentionally insipid, but that might be unfair criticism on my part. And again, the instrumentation and arrangements are always commercial and always amplified.

I have to say that I really like the songs that come from the Taizé community in Northern France, mostly written by Jacques Berthier. Again, they are single phrases sung over and over, but they are always acoustic (sometimes a cappella) and don't require accompaniment by a rock band. They give ordinary people a chance to sing in harmony.

-Joe-