Great Introduction to Episcopal Church
359701
Answered most of the question I had on what the Episcopalians believe. Short and easy to read. Highly recommended.
1067665
Who doesnt appreciate a concisely written book? This book is a great introduction and overview of Christian church history. I recommend this for pastors, students and any Christian with a desire to learn about the history of the churchs beliefs.
2038451
This is the standard hymnal that Episcopalians use. This is the blue cloth edition, which probably graces the back of the average Episcopal Church pew. Inside this hymnal is a broad cross-section of traditional hymns, newer praise songs, and everything in-between. Many of the hymns are firmly placed within Catholic tradition, and were written by great theologians and hymn writers from ages past: Clement of Alexandria, Thomas Aquinas, St. Bernard, Francis of Assisi, and Martin Luther. There are also newer, more evangelical tunes. The variety demonstrates the varying beliefs within the church, but when these Catholic and Evangelical elements are combined, we have a substantial, yet living faith.
Each hymn is grouped according to the church season, such as Advent and Easter. Also, there are hymns listed by various themes, such as hymns for our nation. In the front of the hymnal we have the chants and hymns that make up much of the liturgical experience: the Agnus Dei (lamb of God), the Kyrie, the Alleluia, The Lord's Prayer, the Gloria in excelsius, the Trisagion (Holy, Holy, Holy). The Hymnal 1982 also includes more hymns and anthems than these. Each musical liturgical element is offered in both Rite I (older music) and Rite II (a newer, updated sound).
Overall, I cherish this hymnal. The music is always theologically deep and the songs are all well chosen. The songs are so varied that there is certainly an appropriate song available for each part of the service, and for different services entirely. For instance, once would choose a different hymn for a thanksgiving service, than for a service following a tragedy. For those who just want an excellent collection of deep and historic hymns, this book will work. For Episcopalians, this book has shaped, and will continue to shape, our community's worship of God.
2318298
I have a particular interest in Patristics (the Fathers and early Christian studies), and this book was an invaluable tool in exposing this branch of Christianity to me for the first time.  It is (1) easy to read, (2) extremely irenic in tone (see other reviews), (3) doesn't delve into intricacies beyond an introductory level without oversimplifying, and (4) presents a cogent case for Orthodox's relevancy to Evangelicals.  For those seeking to add to their faith in a substantial way, as well as broaden one's perspectives a little on ancient Christianity, this book cannot be overlooked.
I look forward to reading his (edited) Orthodox theology reader!
4720442
A perfect gift for a new Episcopalian. An Episcopal service is rich with liturgy, ritual and tradition, dating back to Henry VIII. Unless the newcomer has come from a Roman Catholic background, he/she will likely be confused about sitting, standing, kneeling, use of the Book of Common Prayer and the Eucharist. This is indeed a handbook! The author not only explains the Episcopalian worship service in detail, but provides background information on the whys.
932015
this is a wonderful survey of the church fathers that give us the basic information of some of the more prominent ones. greatly enjoyed reading the book and look forward to continuing learning more on these men through further study.
2121111
I'm moving in the direction of the Orthodox Church. From the background of a Protestant, this book was a great read to get an idea of what Orthodoxy is about. The chapters are concise but clearly laid out. The author cites both Scripture and quotes from church fathers that really gave me more confidence in Orthodoxy.
98530
This is an easy to read, inspiring book that (I believe) must have started life as a collection of sermons -  I can hear Bishop Curry speak as a read the text. Great old hymns and songs form a framework for the Bishop's take on theology.
4557569
Excellent introduction to the divine office. I would like to see a book that could help me use the breviary  in Book Form.
3265778
The most appealing aspect of this book is that it allows everyone access to what is normally the province of the clergy. That is a good thing because it is often forgotten in churches, even the Episcopal Church, that liturgy is the work of the people, not something to be imposed from on high by the rector.

In typical Anglican fashion, Galley attempts to walk the via media.  He gives readers broad latitude in shaping their own liturgy while explaining what many Episcopalians can not answer: why do we do that? While some of the practices he endorses and not for everyone, this book is an excellent resource for anyone with an interest in the liturgy of the Episcopal Church.
1107863
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Fr. Bell's journey to Orthodoxy.  I dealt with many of the same issues he dealt with while exploring Orthodoxy.  I joined the Orthodox Church 13 years ago as a former Protestant, having spent some time in several denominations (Lutheran, Baptist, etc) growing up.  I think this book is a great tool for those with a Protestant background who are exploring Orthodoxy or have a family member who is.
1229850
Be careful, reading the prayers and the Book of Psalms in this book can make you consider the Episcopal Church as your church home.  This is good news in a prayer book.  I love it.  It encourages one to actually make prayer a meaningful time.
1700526
Besides the prayers the stories of these men and women is quite fascinating. For Anglicans it's also a good source for readings, Psalms, and the Gospel for your daily prayers. When paired with the annual calendar for the Episcopal Church your have the book and the proper time to read each characters story in consonance with other members.
1263014
I've loaned this book to friends who are curious about the Episcopal Church.  They seem to feel it's well written and most informative.
3271089
The selections of writings are diverse and indepth. It's a great book for anyone looking to learn more about the orthodox faith.
845773
For those churches who are seeking to reach those who are turned off by "the old ways", this is a must purchase.  The author is a leader in the field.  I am fortunate that my Episcopal church in Boynton Beach, Florida, is ahead of the curve in offering an Unplugged service with music by the fantastic & creative Charles Milling, and led by the Rev. Wendy Tobias.  Our rector, Fr. Marty Zlatic, is ahead of the pack in realizing that one service doesn't fit all..so we have four that are different types and reaches different people with different needs.
3780104
A good introduction on the differences in church polity among Protestants. I think most readers will probably get the impression that the publisher is biased towards Congregationalism since three of the five perspectives deal with some form of it. I would have loved a more rigorous defense of Episcopalianism. In my view, Paul Zahl did the worst job in presenting the case for Episcopalianism; he doesn't really present an argument for the Episcopal form of government, but he seems to just a give a history of the Anglican church. I was particularly impressed with Reymond's defense of Presbyterianism; I felt that he presented the best defense for his position. For whatever reason, Danny Akin was given the task to present the single-elder form of congregationalism, even though he doesn't actually favor the position. All in all, it was a good introduction.