Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Liturgy and Music Commission Proposes New, Revised Books

http://www.livingchurch.org/news/news-updates/2008/10/20/liturgy-and-music-commission-proposes-new-revised-books

[The Living Church] 21 Oct 2008--The Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music is seeking General Convention approval for a replacement it has prepared to the Book of Lesser Feasts and Fasts, authorization to begin work on a new edition of the Book of Occasional Services, and approval of a new collection of prayers and liturgies addressing reproductive loss and grief.

The commission, which considers policies and strategies concerning the common worship of the church, completed its pre-convention report for publication in the so-called Blue Book during a meeting Oct. 13-17 at a retreat and conference center in Ashland, Neb.

The proposed title for the revised Book of Lesser Feasts and Fasts is “Holy Women, Holy Men” and includes an additional 70 people for commemoration. No names have been dropped from the current edition, but some dates have been changed to correspond with ecumenical calendars. The new book contains fewer duplicate scripture readings than the current one.

Former Presiding Bishop Frank Griswold proposed revision about a decade ago. He felt that previous editions overemphasized first-century saints and Church of England clergymen. In addition to the inclusion of more women, minorities and Episcopalians, the new proposed edition also includes clear guidelines for anyone who wants to propose additional names for inclusion in future editions.

No comments: