I think it depends on the venue. If you are there to perform then I agree with Thomas the Rhymer who said that singing a song is akin to acting. you need to "sell" your performance. If you are leading a congregation, it sure makes things a lot more believable if you really believe, unless of course you're a REALLY good actor!!

I play the drums in a contemporary Christian Praise and Worship group at my church and I truly believe that my relationship with God is as good as it ever has been. And it's not just the music. I've said this at church before, it's the music that got me there but it's the fellowship, the praise and my renewed faith that keep me there.

Everyone has their own style and their own relationship with the Church and with God. If staying with "that ol time religion" works for the writer of the article, so be it. For me, I have found my nitch. It's funny too, I try to make a point of going to at least one Sunday service (traditional) a month in addition to the Saturday's that I am there, and I get so much more out of them now than ever before.

But, to answer the original question, no I don't think you have to believe. It's easier if ya do, but not impossible if ya don't


Frank