Words for the Table: The Communion Liturgy and New Understandings of Atonement

“…What are the biblical and theological foundations -- the criteria -- for new liturgical material, and how can we gather and find the best resources? ”

Team Members/Contributors

Kelly Boyte Brill Avon Lake United Church of Christ Contact Me

About this pastoral study project

My plan includes the following elements:

Visit at least two congregations where thoughtful liturgical experimentation is taking place. Experience worship in those settings and spend time with the pastors/worship planners talking about their process and its underpinnings. All Pilgrims Christian Church in Seattle is dually affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ. Their pastor has created three different communion liturgies which they use on rotating cycle; they observe the Lord's Supper weekly. The Rev. David Felten, of Fountains United Methodist Church in Scottsdale, is a leading voice in progressive theology. As a local church pastor, he is engaged in bridging the gap between new theological understandings and the regular worship practice of the congregation he serves. In addition to visiting these two places, I may visit some churches in my local area.

Research (mainly online) those liturgical resources that are available which attempt to incorporate progressive theological concepts - with emphasis on resources for communion. Then analyze these resources with a critical eye for both aesthetics (how does the language sound?) and theological grounding. Which of those resources are best used in a particular local setting? Are there some that could be shared more broadly?

Finally, I will create a website to facilitate the sharing of resources, and to provide a setting for ongoing theological conversation.