A Three-Year Banquet: The Lectionary for the Assembly

Worship Matters

by Gail Ramshaw

A concise, clear, straightforward introduction to the way that Christian communities have organized their reading of scripture in worship. The Worship Matters Studies Series examines key worship issues through studies by pastors, musicians, and laypeople from throughout the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Features include the 1) Informal and insightful writing for all readers; 2) Study questions at the end of every chapter; 3) Examination of vital issues in weekly worship; 4) Increased ability of leaders and congregants to understand and experience worship more richly.

96 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2004

Reviews

[Karen Ball · Rating 4 out of 5]

As I am fascinated and inspired by the Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) as a tool for fostering rich Bible study and sense of community, I savored every bit of this book.
It did occasionally assume familiarity with Lutheran practice, which is not my faith tradition. But overall it celebrated the beauty of ecumenism, of all God's people finding our ways to worship and honor God.
The comparison of the styles and audiences of the four gospels was the best I've ever read. And the explanation of how they are incorporated in the three years of RCL readings will color my hearing of the texts in future worship.
I picked this book up for research while considering starting a Sunday School class that follows the RCL. After reading, I am even more enthusiastic about this, with a few introductory sessions using this book. Then embarking on the new year with Advent and Lectionary Year C.

[Terrance Lively · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good book but very basic. I wanted so much more on the lectionary and the history around it. This serves as a good primer for a small group and is a short and easy read.

[Janee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lectionary solid explication