Other times percussion instruments have been flip-flops, egg beaters, aerosol cans, flower pots, tongs and PVC pipe. "God is about energy, rhythm," so you can use just about anything, he says.

Phillips leads a group experimenting with meditative "soundscapes," seeking God in both sound and silence. He's gathered volunteers before Sunday worship to use cello, neo-Celtic harp, hammered dulcimer, wine glasses and percussive instruments to create an atmosphere for prayer and meditation.

"Anything can be used as an instrument," he says, "just as God uses us in limitless ways, some we haven't even imagined."

He calls his project Liturgy Lab. It's an experimental group of musicians and non-musicians that meets after formal choir rehearsal Wednesday nights at St. Bede's, Atlanta. He hopes to add singers, composers, liturgists and dancers to create a fresh palette to enhance worship and fellowship, also exploring the musical flavors of the various ethnic cultures of Atlanta.

Involving listeners is the key
Carla Strott, a music educator in public schools before she became music minister at St. Gabriel's in Oakwood, endorses such experimentation. Participating, as opposed to just listening, encompasses your whole being, Strott says. "When you tell people something, they might remember. But if you involve them, they understand."

Phillips points out metered styles foster focus and unity, and unmetered styles can empower discernment and spiritual spontaneity. He hopes the group will be able to supply churches with a few simple ideas to revitalize liturgy and encourage creative dialog among parishes.

He also envisions a time when the group may practice weekly at a different parish each month, inviting its members to listen and join in, and culminating with the group taking part in the worship service on the last Sunday of the month.

"I dream of a day when liturgy and music in the Episcopal Church are so powerful and intriguing that secular culture is drawn in, if only by sheer curiosity."

For more information on the concept of Liturgy Lab, contact Brad Phillips at blugrape@comcast.net. Various drums and shakers will be provided. Bring your own toaster.