When singer/songwriter Richard Colligan writes worship music, there’s one question he has in mind: “What is worship music supposed to sound like nowadays?”

The performer and composer, who plays at 3 p.m. Sunday at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, calls his response, “world-making.”

“[The] worship anchors the people of God in our ancient roots of faith while fully engaging our 21st-century imaginations,” Colligan said on his website. His performances partner music with other subjects, such as bits of history and the Hebrew language.

Colligan, who lives in Strawberry Point, Iowa, studied theology and arts at United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities in New Brighton, Minn. He chose not to be ordained. The time commitment was too great, he said, and he wanted to be sure he could keep time for family. His musical career allowed him to still be a teacher and inspirer.

Attendees on Sunday can expect “an immersion in music and prayer centered in the always-passionate Psalms,” the church said in a news release.

Colligan said Psalms are his main focus at the moment.

“It’s something I’m really into right now,” he said. “I think musicians really relate to that part of the Bible.” His dedication dates back to 2004, when he began a project to write a song around each of the 150 Psalms.

“I wanted a big project after seminary,” he said. “I sort of missed studying,” he said.

Colligan said he has about 110 songs written so far, and will be finished in four more years. He prefers to write songs that are simple enough to teach without needing to put the words down on paper. He also has a few covers he likes to play, which include selections from The Beatles and James Taylor.

Colligan is currently solo, but has recorded many albums with his wife, Trish, who plays keyboard and sings. Between them, they’ve released about 14 albums. About five of those are dedicated to Christian worship.

In addition to his solo performance in the afternoon, Colligan will lead the congregational singing and will share his original music during the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship services.

Colligan’s performance is part of Our Savior’s Church Music Series. Free-will offerings will be accepted, with a reception to follow.