Designed as a general introduction to Christian liturgy, this book explores the meaning, history, and practice of worship in Eastern and Western, Catholic and Protestant traditions. Its chapters cover the theology of worship, the historical development of Eucharist and the Prayer Offices, the lectionary and customs of the church year, other sacramental rites, and the use of music and the arts. As such, it is a perfect textbook for students seeking to understand the basics of liturgical worship, as well as a reliable guide for worship leaders.

Distinguished liturgical historian and theologian Frank Senn here ventures behind the liturgical screen, behind the texts, and behind the rubrics to reconstruct the everyday religious expression in Christian history. Senn's magisterial Christian Liturgy: Catholic and Evangelical (1997) has been widely hailed not only for its comprehensive treatment of Christian liturgy in all ages and communions but also for its appreciation of the dynamic role of culture in shaping liturgical expression. In The People's Work, Senn delves further into the cultural home of liturgy, judiciously and insightfully looking at processions and pilgrimage, communion practices and spiritual reading, fasting and feasting--all the myriad liturgical practices that have been the concrete life and primary work of the body of Christ.

A knowledgeable liturgical theologian and historian proposes the lines of a Christian worldview that can inform liturgical renewal.