Volume 02 Autumn 1982

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Begins with a critique of the Society, which he says is not articulating its aims and objects. Nevertheless much done, but the study of the ancient liturgies has been neglected, without which we lose contact with reality. Recent research has advanced understanding; now perceptions, motifs and sequences of thought may be quarried for the benefit of worship in the present day. Didache chapter 10 is instanced, as are the Aposotlic Traditions and other early liturgies, and the two dominant motifs of thanksgiving and anamnesis noted. Another feature of ancient prayer, neglected today, is adoration, which is now explored. If apophatism is feared, let us learn from the Liturgy of St James and the Anaphora of Cyril of Jerusalem who avoid this danger by an emphasis on God the Creator. This is a theme much neglected in our worship, a theme to which contemporary science directs us.

Drawing on St Paul and on Calvin, the author argues for the presence of children at communion. The collapse of the life of spirituality, and of family prayers underlines this, namely the presence of the whole family together at Communion. A Melbourne example is cited, where the result was the largest confirmation class in the history of the congregation. Arguments about the need for understanding, or religious experience, are countered. The matter should be approached pastorally, not legally.

A reflection on the books on one minister's shelves and the use he makes of them directly and indirectly. In the course of describing particular publications, he discusses language, the use made of prayers of the past, the material that may be found in more general books of poetry, drama, factual information, and the need to prepare those who are not ministers to lead worship.