Are you swept away by the resonant chants, the rhythmic prayers, and the profound sense of peace in an Episcopal church service? Have you ever wondered about the source of this powerful liturgy, the words that bind generations of faithful together? If so, then this class on the Episcopal Book of Common Prayer (BCP) is for you.

Over a six-week period, we’ll review the development and evolution of this text, its history, the conditions leading to its creation, and its application in our daily lives. We’ll consider the issues faced by its authors, religious and secular.

 The Book of Common Prayer is more than just a collection of prayers and rituals. It’s a living testament to the Anglican tradition, a bridge between the rich tapestry of Catholic tradition and the fresh perspectives of the Reformation. Its words, honed over centuries, resonate with both timeless truths and contemporary concerns.

From its 16th-century roots under King Henry VIII to its 20th-century revisions reflecting a changing world, the Book of Common Prayer is a chronicle of religious faith and practical guidance for daily living. Its rituals guide our worship and declare our faith’s religious themes of grace, forgiveness, and love.