Book of Common Prayer (1979)

Book of Common Prayer (1979). The 1979 edition is the official primary liturgical book of the Episcopal Church (United States), succeeding the 1928 edition. It represents a comprehensive revision influenced by the Liturgical Movement and the Second Vatican Council, incorporating modern English alongside traditional Elizabethan English and introducing significant theological and structural changes. Its authorization concluded a lengthy revision process that began in the mid-20th century, fundamentally reshaping worship across the Anglican Communion in North America.

Historical context and development

The drive for revision emerged from the mid-20th century Liturgical Movement, which sought greater congregational participation and a return to ancient Christian patterns of worship. Influenced by reforms within the Roman Catholic Church following the Second Vatican Council, the Episcopal Church (United States) initiated a formal process through its Standing Liturgical Commission. This effort produced trial liturgies like the Services for Trial Use (1970) and the Authorized Services 1973, which were tested in parishes nationwide. Key figures in its development included liturgical scholars such as Massey H. Shepherd Jr. and bishops like John E. Hines. The final version was approved by the General Convention in 1979, after extensive debate and amendment, replacing the 1928 prayer book.

Structure and content

The 1979 book is organized into two major sections: the Daily Office and the Holy Eucharist. It provides a complete lectionary system, the Revised Common Lectionary, for scriptural readings across a three-year cycle. Significant additions include the expansive Holy Week liturgies, the Paschal Triduum, and modern rites for Christian Initiation emphasizing Baptism as the full sacrament of entry. The book also contains the Psalter pointed for chanting, Pastoral Offices like Marriage and Burial of the Dead, an Episcopal adaptation of the Seven Sacraments, and historical documents including the Articles of Religion. A defining feature is its dual-language presentation, offering rites in both traditional Rite I and contemporary Rite II English.

Theological changes and liturgical innovations

Theologically, the 1979 edition reflects a renewed emphasis on the Paschal mystery and the centrality of Baptism within the Christian life. It restores the ancient pattern of the Eucharistic liturgy, moving the Prayer of Consecration to follow the Offertory. The book promotes a more communal understanding of worship, evident in the restored Easter Vigil and rites for the Reconciliation of a Penitent. Liturgical innovations include the introduction of optional Eucharistic Prayers, expansive Prayers of the People, and the integration of lay ministries. These changes aligned Episcopal practice more closely with ecumenical consensus and patristic sources, as seen in the Consultation on Common Texts.

Reception and influence

Initial reception was mixed, generating significant controversy between traditionalists attached to the 1928 book and proponents of renewal. Some congregations, particularly within the Anglican Catholic Church, rejected it as a departure from orthodox Anglicanism, contributing to schisms. However, it was widely adopted and profoundly influenced subsequent liturgical revisions across the Anglican Communion, including the Book of Alternative Services in Canada and the Common Worship series in the Church of England. Its ecumenical impact is noted in its alignment with liturgical texts from the International Commission on English in the Liturgy.

Contemporary use and revisions

The 1979 book remains the standard liturgy of the Episcopal Church (United States), though its canons permit some use of the 1928 edition. Subsequent authorized supplements, such as the Book of Occasional Services and Enriching Our Worship, have provided additional texts without altering the core book. Recent discussions at the General Convention have focused on inclusive language and possible further revision, but no comprehensive replacement is currently planned. Its rites continue to define the worship life of the church, shaping its identity within the worldwide Anglican Communion and broader Christianity.

Category:Anglican liturgy Category:1979 books Category:Episcopal Church (United States)