
Christian Symbol and Ritual
An Introduction
Oxford University Press Inc
Published on 24. November 2005
Book
Paperback/Softback
192 pages
978-0-19-515412-2 (ISBN)
Description
Existing books on Christian ritual and the sacraments tend to presuppose a good acquaintance with Roman Catholic thought and practice. Today, however, even at Catholic institutions students tend to lack even a basic knowledge of Christian ritual. Moreover, for many modern people the word "ritual" carries negative connotations of rigidity and boredom. In this accessibly-written book two noted authors offer an engaging introduction to this important topic. Their goal is first to demonstrate that celebration, ritual and symbol are already central to the readers' lives, even though most do not see their actions as symbolic or ritualistic. Once this point has been made, the book connects central Christian symbols to the symbols and rituals already present in the readers' lives. The Christian theology of symbol, ritual, and sacrament is thus placed in the context of everyday life. The authors go on to discuss such questions as how rituals establish and maintain power relationships, how "official" rituals are different from other "popular" Christian rituals and devotions, and how Christian rituals function in the process of human "salvation." Their lively yet solidly grounded work will appeal to intelligent lay readers and discussion groups, as well as being useful for courses in ritual and the sacraments at the undergraduate and seminary level.
Reviews / Votes
A first-rate primer on the sacraments and the broader significance of ritual in human life. * Horizons *More details
Language
English
Place of publication
New York
United States
Target group
College/higher education
Dimensions
Height: 229 mm
Width: 152 mm
Thickness: 11 mm
Weight
287 gr
ISBN-13
978-0-19-515412-2 (9780195154122)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions

Book
09/2005
Oxford University Press Inc
€149.50
Shipment within 15-20 days

E-Book
09/2005
1st Edition
OUP eBook
€21.99
Available for download
Persons
Bernard Cooke, Professor of Theology, College of the Holy Cross (Emeritus) and Gary Macy, Professor of Religious Studies, University of San Diego
Author
Professor of TheologyProfessor of Theology, College of the Holy Cross (Emeritus)
Professor of Religious StudiesProfessor of Religious Studies, University of San Diego