A practical guide to using the Book of Common Prayer, without using technical language or assuming prior knowledge. It includes a history and theology of the BCP with practical advice on using its principal services.

Paul Thomas

Preface

PART 1 A Historical Introduction

1 The History of the Book of Common Prayer

PART 2 Using the Book of Common Prayer

2 Finding Your Way around the Book of Common Prayer

3 O Lord, who hast safely brought us to the beginning of this day Morning Prayer ('Matins')

4 Lighten our darkness, we beseech thee, O Lord Evening Prayer (Evensong)

5 Take This Holy Sacrament to Your Comfort Holy Communion

6 Steadfast in faith, joyful through hope, rooted in charity Baptism

7 To have and to hold from this day forward Holy Matrimony

8 Thou knowest, Lord, the secrets of our hearts Burial of the Dead

The Book of Common Prayer remains at the heart of the Church of England and using it is an essential skill for all clergy and readers, yet many are no longer familiar with its contents. This practical guide explains how to use the Book of Common Prayer in a way that is accessible and informative. Introducing this central tradition of Anglican worship without using technical language or assuming prior knowledge, it is intended as a beginner's guide for ordinands and readers, especially those for whom the Prayer Book tradition may be alien. Part 1 of the book offers a general introduction to the history, theology and liturgical character of the BCP. It also explores the place and meaning of 'common prayer' within the Anglican tradition. Part 2 offers general practical advice on the principal services of the BCP, how to use them, and where flexibility is permitted. Using the Book of Common Prayer will help its readers come to a renewed appreciation of the place of the Book of Common Prayer in the distinctive tradition of Anglican praise and prayer.

Paul Thomas is Vicar of St James's Sussex Gardens in Paddington and is Deputy Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Prayer Book Society.

The Book of Common Prayer remains at the heart of the Church of England and using it is an essential skill for all clergy and readers, yet many are no longer familiar with its contents.   
  
This practical guide explains how to use the Book of Common Prayer in a way that is accessible and informative. Introducing this central tradition of Anglican worship without using technical language or assuming prior knowledge, it is intended as a beginner's guide for ordinands and readers, especially those for whom the Prayer Book tradition may be alien.   
  
Part 1 of the book offers a general introduction to the history, theology and liturgical character of the BCP. It also explores the place and meaning of 'common prayer' within the Anglican tradition. Part 2 offers general practical advice on the principal services of the BCP, how to use them, and where flexibility is permitted.   
  
Using the Book of Common Prayer will help its readers come to a renewed appreciation of the place of the Book of Common Prayer in the distinctive tradition of Anglican praise and prayer.

\["For beginners seeking to learn about Anglican worship", "Simplifies the Book of Common Prayer for new users", "You will gain confidence in participating in services"\]

This guide helps you understand and use the Book of Common Prayer.

Using the Book of Common Prayer

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Using the Book of Common Prayer

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A practical guide to using the Book of Common Prayer, without using technical language or assuming prior knowledge. It includes a history and theology of the BCP with practical advice on using its principal services.

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