This short book has a dual purpose and is aimed at two audiences: Through practical instruction and guidance, it equips bishops to minister effectively as the chief pastor in the diocese, while helping clergy and congregations reduce the eternal anxiety around the words, "The bishop is coming." Realizing that ceremonial custom varies among dioceses and congregations, the author lays out some normative principles that should be followed in all liturgies at which the bishop presides or is present. His clear, engaging, and often humorous style will put the reader at ease when dealing with ceremonial material.

CONTENTS

1. Bearings: Each Congregation's "Usual Thing"

2. Brief Survival Guides for the Bishop

3. The Parish Visitation, with a note on Eucharists at which the Bishop does not preside

4. The Cathedral Ordination of Presbyters with the Reception of the Orders of one Previously Ordained; A brief note on the Ordination of Deacons

5. Vows and Oils: Redefining the "Chrism Mass," with a note on Restoration to the Ministry

6. Solemn Evensong

7. Passages: Institutions, Weddings, and Funerals

8. Through the Liturgical Year

9. Sample Customaries and Documents, Select Bibliography

The two volumes of Prayer Book Parallels are aids to the study of the development of the American book from as many points of view as possible. They include liturgical texts and related historical documents. Volume One contains the texts of the public services of the American Church arranged in parallel columns--from the colonial period to the present--to enable comparative study. The two volumes are of great value to seminarians, clergy, church historians, and anyone interested in the development of the present Prayer Book. (702 pp)

The two volumes of Prayer Book Parallels are aids to the study of the development of the American book from as many points of view as possible. They include liturgical texts and related historical documents. Volume Two is a comparison of Collects, Family Prayers, and Prayers at Sea, as well as the Articles of Religion, the Psalter, and other texts and documents pertinent to Prayer Book study. The two volumes are of great value to seminarians, clergy, church historians, and anyone interested in the development of the present Prayer Book. (576 pp)