Christian Symbol and Ritual: An Introduction - Hardcover

Cooke, Bernard; Macy, Gary

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0195154118 ISBN 13: 9780195154115

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 2005

Synopsis

In Christian Symbol and Ritual, Bernard Cooke and Gary Macy offer an accessible and engaging introduction to the topic written from a non-denominational perspective. Cooke and Macy demonstrate that celebration, ritual, and symbol are already central to our lives, even though most do not see their actions as symbolic or ritualistic. They connect central Christian symbols to the symbols and rituals already present in everyday life and place Christian theology in a familiar context. After discussing the characteristics and functions of rituals, they explore different kinds of ritual, including those of friendship, worship, and healing. The authors also examine such questions as how rituals establish and maintain power relationships, how "official" rituals are different from "popular" Christian rituals and devotions, and how Christian rituals function in the process of human salvation. Christian Symbol and Ritual is an invaluable resource for students, teachers, and lay readers.

About this title

About the Author

Bernard Cooke is Professor Emeritus of Theology at the College of the Holy Cross. Gary Macy is Professor of Religious Studies at the University of San Diego.

Edition details

• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication date: 2005
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0195154118
• ISBN 13: 9780195154115
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 192