Presbyterian Worship
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A place for conversations about worship in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), including the proposed revisions to the Directory for Worship.
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- Directory for Worship: Chapter Five
- Directory for Worship: Chapter Four
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- Directory for Worship: Chapter Two
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Directory for Worship: Chapter Two
The second chapter of the proposed revision to the PC(USA) Directory for Worship gets more specific about the structure and planning of worship in a Presbyterian/Reformed context. This chapter explains: the sources from which we derive our theology and practice of worship; the gifts of form and freedom that we value in our tradition; the communal nature of the worshiping assembly, in which all are called to participate; and the varieties of ways in which we share in acts of prayer and praise.
This chapter of the revision is made up of materials from chapters one and two of the current Directory, “The Dynamics of Christian Worship” and “The Elements of Christian Worship” (respectively), but in a simplified and streamlined way. The revision features more specific information about the roles of deacons, ruling elders, and teaching elders in planning and leading worship, and emphasizes the value of consultation and collaboration.
Questions for Reflection or Discussion
Read this section of the proposed revision, ideally alongside relevant sections in the current Directory for Worship.
(1) What does it mean for worship to be “faithful to the Holy Spirit who speaks in Scripture”? What are some examples of the tension between form and freedom in your congregation?
(2) Why is it important for the whole people of God to participate actively in worship? What forms of prayer are emphasized or neglected in your community of faith?
(3) Who is involved with the planning and leadership worship in your congregation? How are roles designated? How is work distributed?
EMAIL COMMENTS on the proposed revision to the Directory for Worship. For official consideration in subsequent drafts of the revision, all comments must be received in writing at this address by July 1, 2015.
- Posted at 2:40 p.m.
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