Includes bibliographical references.

Introduction : approaching worship : roots and principles -- Gathering : preparation and entering -- The service of the Word : sharing together in the Word of God -- Prayer and sacrament : enacting our faith -- Sending forth -- Appendix A : a leaders' guide -- Appendix B : denominational resources.

Worship is the work of the people of God. Patterns of worship shape how we pray and how we live. Despite its centrality to church life, worship is too often taken for granted as something a congregation experiences rather than collectively creates. The Work of the People simply and clearly explains the structure of worship, the actions and words we use in liturgy, the environment in which it all happens--in other words, what we are doing and why. This book will guide congregations in worshiping in a way that encourages participants' spiritual growth, welcomes new participants into faith, and s.

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