Christian Symbol and Ritual: An Introduction

In Christian Symbol and Ritual, Bernard Cooke and Gary Macy offer an accessible and engaging introduction to the topic written from a non-denominational perspective. Cooke and Macy demonstrate that celebration, ritual, and symbol are already central to our lives, even though most do not see their actions as symbolic or ritualistic. They connect central Christian symbols to the symbols and rituals already present in everyday life and place Christian theology in a familiar context. After discussing the characteristics and functions of rituals, they explore different kinds of ritual, including those of friendship, worship, and healing. The authors also examine such questions as how rituals establish and maintain power relationships, how official rituals are different from popular Christian rituals and devotions, and how Christian rituals function in the process of human salvation. Christian Symbol and Ritual is an invaluable resource for students, teachers, and lay readers.


Author: Bernard Cooke, Gary Macy
Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
Published: 09/01/2005
Pages: 192
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.69lbs
Size: 9.18h x 6.12w x 0.57d
ISBN: 9780195154122

Review Citation(s):
Choice 09/01/2006 pg. 128

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