The Liturgical Movement and Reformed Worship

The paper begins by summarising the developments in the centuries following the Reformation in Scotland, pausing on the ‘anglicising’ of the liturgy from the sixth edition of Euchologion onwards, up until the most recent publications. Speaking to a Cambridge society, the author outlines the Scottish practice of the communion season before making a closer examination of contemporary orders in the light of the ongoing Liturgical Movement, finding these wanting in some respects. Gains include a deepening interest in the Christian Year, and an enrichment of the language of prayer and of hymnody. In discussion of the Invitation, the author recalls the custom of ‘lifting the tokens’ (now Communion Cards) which is said still to prevail. A detailed critique of the 1940 Order in respect of the Liturgy of the Faithful is given, again from the perspective of the Liturgical Movement. The mode of communicating is further discussed, as are Reformed understandings of symbolism, presence and sacrifice.