Alexander Schmemann (1921–1983)

I've really only skimmed this book as I was looking for some specific information for a presentation, but wow, this is fabulous.

I was familiar with Fr. Schmemann as a liturgical theologian who was passionate about reuniting theology, liturgy, and spirituality in the church, and his approach of learning what the church teaches by examining what the church does exactly matches my own tendencies.

I need to get back to that presentation, but I'll be blogging about baptism, chrismation, the "eighth day rites" and confirmation, and the churching rites in the not too distant future!… (mais)

One of the clearest and most penetrating books ever written on the nature of "sacrament." The first two chapters (as well as the final essay 'Worship in a Secular Age') contains one of the most helpful discussions of what the Eucharist and all Christian worship is about.

Schmemann was a Russian Orthodox theologian (and a few parts of this book are specifically focused on Eastern Christian traditions), but his wok had deep impact on many Anglicans. If you are thirsting for a new and thoughtful way of understanding worship and the purpose of being human, then this book might be the ticket,.

Nov 2002 Goodnewsletter… (mais)