Christian symbol and ritual : an introduction / Bernard Cooke, Gary Macy.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Cooke, Bernard J., 1922-

Contributor:

Macy, Gary.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Liturgics.

Ritual.

Christian art and symbolism.

Theology, Doctrinal.

Physical Description:

ix, 178 pages ; 24 cm

Place of Publication:

Oxford ; New York : Oxford University Press, 2005.

Summary:

In Christian Symbol and Ritual, Bernard Cooke and Gary Macy offer an accessible and engaging introduction to the topic, written from a nondenominational perspective. Cooke and Macy demonstrate that celebration, ritual, and symbol are already central to our lives, even though most do not see their actions as symbolic or ritualistic. They connect central Christian symbols to the symbols and rituals already present in everyday life and place Christian theology in a familiar context. After discussing the characteristics and functions of rituals, they explore different kinds of ritual, including those of friendship, worship, and healing. The authors also examine such questions as how rituals establish and maintain power relationships, how "official" rituals are different from "popular" Christian rituals and devotions, and how Christian rituals function in the process of human salvation. Christian Symbol and Ritual is an invaluable resource for students, teachers, and lay readers.

Contents:

Introduction: Symbolism, Root of Ritual 3

1 Characteristics and Functions of Rituals 19

2 Rituals in the Christian Context 35

3 Rituals of Friendship 55

4 Rituals of Christian Initiation 69

5 Rituals of Prayer, Worship, and the Eucharist 87

6 Rituals of Reconciliation 109

7 Rituals of Service and Ministry 119

8 Rituals for Healing, Suffering, Death 147

Conclusion: Christian Life as Ritual 161.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references (pages [171]-173) and index.

ISBN:

0195154118

0195154126

OCLC:

57243214

Publisher Number:

9780195154115

9780195154122