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Welcome to the Book of Common Prayer
A guide to a deeper understanding and richer relationship to the Book of Common Prayer, and a more profound faith. In this guide for newcomers as well as lifelong Episcopalians, author Vicki Black helps readers navigate the currents of Anglican liturgy and discover its richness and beauty. As we use the Book of Common Prayer, Black says, “we discover we are not alone, and this liturgical current of worship, prayer, and praise will indeed take us where we want to go–union with the God we seek to love.” Welcome to the Book of Common Prayer shows readers everything from where to find the Sunday collect to how to pray the Daily Office. But it’s more than a how-to. It offers history and background that help make the prayer book a more meaningful part of the worship life of individuals and congregations.
With thoughtful reflection questions, this is a perfect volume for parish study groups.
With thoughtful reflection questions, this is a perfect volume for parish study groups.
152 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2005
58 people are currently reading
107 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
April 22, 2020
Episcopal, not American Anglican
Not long after this book was published, some exclusivist conservative segments of the Episcopal Church broke away, causing a schism (over gay clergy). That undermines some of the thread of the book, which stresses both unity and diversity. Some people cannot hold those two ideas in their heads at the same time.
Nonetheless, the Episcopal Church that is left is represented here in a beautiful way that is respectful to all.
The book gives a history of the various sections of the Book of Common Prayer, as well as an overview. I would have liked something more practical, so I could use the BCP, but this gives the reader an understanding, which is better.
Not long after this book was published, some exclusivist conservative segments of the Episcopal Church broke away, causing a schism (over gay clergy). That undermines some of the thread of the book, which stresses both unity and diversity. Some people cannot hold those two ideas in their heads at the same time.
Nonetheless, the Episcopal Church that is left is represented here in a beautiful way that is respectful to all.
The book gives a history of the various sections of the Book of Common Prayer, as well as an overview. I would have liked something more practical, so I could use the BCP, but this gives the reader an understanding, which is better.
June 9, 2021
Wow! I have, for a long time, studied the scriptures. I love the Bible; I love to study and research God’s word. Albeit, I am often replete with doubts, I still find the Bible as a comfort.
I have read the entire Bible—in my Catholic/ Fundamentalist past. Since, coming to the Episcopal Church—a very progressive/liberal arm of the faith—I have wondered how to approach scripture. This book revealed just how serious and committed the Church is to scripture. It also helped point me toward a cohesive path for spiritual clarity.
Happy Reading,
www.w-alexander.com
I have read the entire Bible—in my Catholic/ Fundamentalist past. Since, coming to the Episcopal Church—a very progressive/liberal arm of the faith—I have wondered how to approach scripture. This book revealed just how serious and committed the Church is to scripture. It also helped point me toward a cohesive path for spiritual clarity.
Happy Reading,
www.w-alexander.com
June 1, 2025
Much better resources out there for looking at the history and theology of the BCP. The history and theology presented in this work is often “half-baked” or cherry picked. Some stuff is alright, but better introductions exist.
March 8, 2018
3.5 stars. Informative.
March 15, 2018
A good introduction to the Book of Common Prayer. Would also be very helpful to people new to the Anglican faith and wanting to understand the church service better.
January 11, 2020
Excellent!
Excellent overall summary of the book of Common Prayer, rich in history and church tradition. Vicki Black is a masterful writer.
Excellent overall summary of the book of Common Prayer, rich in history and church tradition. Vicki Black is a masterful writer.
April 4, 2018
A very helpful supplement for understanding the Episcopal Book of Common Prayer. The history of the religious practices was intriguing and seeing how the church has evolved to stay relevant rather profound.
November 30, 2012
Somewhat dryer than the other books in the "Welcome to ..." series, this is nonetheless a very useful exploration of the history of the BCP as well as a guide to its navigation and use. I definitely recommend it for those who are new to Anglicanism or the use of breviaries from other traditions.
May 21, 2013
A good overview explaining the BCP used by the Episcopal Church.
November 17, 2013
Good information. Mostly boring reading.
June 17, 2015
A bit on the dry side but a great handbook on the Book of Common Prayer.
Want to read
November 14, 2017264.03
July 27, 2018
Excellent Read
A well-written entry into the BCP. Perfect for those who are curious about The Episcopal Church and want to delve deeper into its traditions.
A well-written entry into the BCP. Perfect for those who are curious about The Episcopal Church and want to delve deeper into its traditions.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews