Worship and Liturgy in Context: Studies and Case Studies of Contemporary Christian Practice

'Take a look behind the scenes of contemporary Christian worship, in the company of historians, musicians, theologians and pastors. This book vibrates with a passion for offering a better understanding of worship and liturgy. It uncovers fault lines for today's worshipper as well as posing challenges for tomorrow. It's a very good read.' Alison Eliot, former Moderator, Church of Scotland 'Through a series of historical and contemporary snapshots, leading academics and clergy provide some fascinating insights into the cultural context that has formed Scotland's theological and ecclesiastical heritage. Presbyterianism dominates, but Roman Catholic and Episcopalian contributions also feature in a story stretching from the Reformation to the present day. If you've ever wondered how the faith of Calvin and John Knox could inspire the Iona Community, and even the emerging church, then this is a key resource.'John Drane, University of Aberdeen 'The essays in this volume probe the complex and often competing trends in the practice of Christian corporate worship in Scotland. They also point us to fundamental lessons for all practical theology: attend deeply to cultural contexts, listen to voices from quite different perspectives, and probe at each turn how both our worship and our writing about worship might reflect the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.'John D. Witvliet, Calvin Institute of Christian Worship Calvin College and Calvin Theological Seminary 'A significant reminder of what has too readily been forgotten. An important articulation of what has been untold. Weaving doctrinal reflection, historical discussion and social analysis, this volume brightly illuminates Christian worship in Scotland as a practice with deep roots. The diversity of contributors mirrors the Scottish context, offering a rich resource for further conversation. An essential text for anyone pondering Christian worship within, and well beyond, the Scottish border.'Dr Eric Stoddart, University of St Andrews. "Worship and Liturgy in Context" shows how Christian worship in its many and changing forms interacts in significant and interesting ways with its varying contexts - cultural, social, political, economic. Worship, even in a secular age, shapes ethics and behaviour, and often challenges received wisdom and commonly accepted theologies. It gives special attention to Scotland, but it is challengingly relevant in other contexts today. It makes a distinctive and important contribution to the lively debate about the relation of worship, theology and ethics. It also challenges the Churches and believers to renewal of the worship of God in spirit and in truth. It is suitable for use on liturgy and worship courses, courses on church history, cultural history, practical and pastoral theology.