One exciting resource that was discussed is an Internet blog site where you can find information about and resources for worship and daily prayer. The site allows you to look at video, and read articles and narratives from specific contexts, ideas for worship, liturgies, as well as find other great sites to aid in both education and worship planning. The blog also allows you to comment on postings and read what other people have to say as well. It is a way of sharing experiences and ideas from many different geographic, sociodemographic, and theological locations. You can link to the blog from the official site of the Office of Theology and Worship or the Emerging Worship Web site.
Another resource includes short informational pieces that you can cut and paste into your bulletin each week. These items inform congregants about specific aspects of the liturgy such as history, theological reflections, denominational interpretation, ecumenical understanding, and so forth. These short passages help congregations learn about worship, faith, and practice. We also hope these statements will provoke continuing education through reflection on worship practices and ongoing conversations among people of faith. Also included in this resource are brief articles expanding on these passages, which are designed for church newsletters. You can also find this material on any of the Office of Theology and Worship Web pages.
Our cohort is also developing material for continuing education through retreats and regional events. We are planning a training event for leaders who will pilot these events across the nation. Look for information about events on our Web pages as well as information regarding presbyteries and churches that will be hosting regional events.
The goal of all these efforts is to help the church come to a deeper appreciation of the vital importance of worship in faith formation, mission, and daily living. We are trying to encourage further conversations in churches and homes, on college campuses, and at seminaries—anywhere Christians gather. Our hope is for a renewed conversation about worship and daily living that will help us live more intentionally as followers of Christ and equip us to pass on this faith and practice to our children. |
