Posted by Marc Kivel, M.A.
July 12, 2010 -
779 views
I'm sometimes asked why I favor using fixed liturgy rather than spontaneous prayer during public worship. We should remember that the word liturgy comes from a Greek term with the connotation of "the people's work." All the people, not just the celebrant! While there is certainly every reason to speak directly to The Source(s) in personal prayer, when worshipping with others, having a fixed liturgy offers several benefits
- Liturgy can be a medium of instruction, transmitting beliefs and values (e.g., recitation of Creeds, the institution of the Eucharist, chanting of the Sh'ma, etc.)
- Liturgy encourages participation of all present for worship, particularly when congregational responses and songs are emphasized
- Liturgy provides a safe space for congregants - knowing how worship will unfold gives participants the freedom to delve deeper into their individual soul encounters - think liturgical worship as mantra
- Liturgy can be a medium for art - poetry, word, reading, dance, objects, acts all meld together to move the celebrants/congregants toward new enlightenment
While there are many texts on liturgical rites for various faith communities, I find it helpful to look beyond my own traditions to find new depths in the rites I celebrate and seek sympathetic traditions from other sources to help me better minister to my community. Thoughts?
