An Ornaments (and Instrument) of Holiness

“See a prayer book in his hand, True ornaments to know a holy man.” 

 - William Shakespeare (Richard III)

You probably know more of the Book of Common Prayer than you think. Alongside the King James Bible, and ole’ Bill’s plays and poems, this book has greatly shaped the English language. Even those of us who have only recently found ourselves in a context where it is explicitly used will be familiar with phrases like “ashes to ashes and dust to dust.” Writing of the BCP’s literary influence, scholar Daniel Swift has commented, “It is a skeleton beneath the skin of the best-known literary works of our or any time.” 

Beyond its literary or linguistic influence there is a particular spirituality related to the Prayer Book. It’s saturated with Holy Scripture and good doctrine. Even more, for hundreds of years it has been a tool for the people of God throughout the world to keep company with Jesus. This is the book’s true value. It’s a wonderful tool for walking and growing with Jesus. 

You’ve probably seen Sarah or I holding the great book on Sundays. Our worship comes from its pages. It also has prayers for use in households and by individuals. It is an amazing resource. 

This Sunday, following worship, I’ll be talking a little about the BCP’s history and role in our common life. We’ll also focus on how it might be a resource in your life, helping you to walk closely with the Lord. If you’re interested in learning more about Anglicanism and COTC, or hungry for a fresh but ancient way to grow in Christ, come out and join us (lunch and childcare are available). You can email Sarah Robinson to confirm you’re coming. This Lunch and Learn is part of a general emphasis we have this Fall on the Anglican way. A recording of this talk will be made available on our Youtube page as well. 

In Christ, 

Peter+