Worship, religious activity in all of its aspects - what we do and how we do it, as well as what we say and how we say it - underlies religious belief.
Leonel L. Mitchell (in Praying Shapes Believing)
The liturgy at Ascension changes seasonally. While the service's framework remains the same, these changes help accentuate each season and draw attention to what we are saying. This Easter season, we are using a recently approved set of revisions to help our service be more expansive.
One change that many have noticed is in the Nicene Creed. Where we usually say, “and was made man,” the expansive language reads, “and became truly human”. There are other subtle changes, mainly within the Eucharistic Prayer. It is important for us to try these prayers, and it is normal to hear both the new and old language together as we worship. I know I’ve retained the original language in places, even as I try to be deliberate with the new words.
I believe Easter is a great time for each of us to embark on the personal journey of exploring this expansive language. It may challenge us, but it will also remind us that Resurrection is challenging. Imagine all the adjustments the disciples made immediately following Jesus' resurrection! It may be tempting to think of our prayers as unchanging when in fact, they’ve changed in our lifetime. The move from ‘Holy Ghost’ to ‘Holy Spirit’ is one example of this, also from the creed. Let's embrace this opportunity for personal growth and understanding.
Our prayers hold tremendous significance. The words we use not only reflect our beliefs but also shape our core understanding of God. Additionally, these prayers serve as a testament to our beliefs, sharing them with those who come to visit us at Ascension. Join me in a season of prayer and exploring these expansive expressions of God, and together, let's contribute to the shaping of our collective beliefs.
Blessings,
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