by Brian R. Paulson
Reprinted from Congregations magazine, winter 2007 (vol. 33, no. 1)with permission from the Alban Institute. Copyright © 2007 by The Alban Instiute, Inc. All rights reserved.
This article explores the power of worship to shape, vision, generate change, and announce the activity of God in our midst.
© 2000 Brian R. Paulson
This article lightly treats the patterning effects of worship upon daily life.
It should be noted that this interest is a secondary concern from the vantage point of Christian faith. The Christian faith's primary concern in worship is praise of the Triune God. Yet the question of the usefulness of faith has been a constant interest of those whose task is the promotion of "the good and abundant life" in Christ.
Moreover, this field of inquiry serves as an object of keen interest for cultural anthropologists, ethicists, and those who have come to recognize the unique role which communities of faith have in the general well being of society. Toward that end, a dialogue with the multiple disciplines that consider the human condition has been a constant interest of the author.
© 2002 Brian R. Paulson
This is a brief summary of transforming
dimensions in worship experience. These particular dimensions and
their constituent dynamics were identified in recent ethnographic
research.
© 1999 Brian R. Paulson
This is an example of the kind of
information garnered by the ethnographic interview protocol that is posted
at this site.
Above: "KFC: two girls in conversation" by Jacqueline K. Crofton. Click her art to see more or e-mail her for info.
Above: "Walking to Church" by Norman Rockwell. Click to order.
© 2009 Brian R. Paulson
A short article written as a frame of
reference while participating in an American ecumenical council.
© 2009 Brian R. Paulson
A short article written for a recent
colloquy of Presbyterian Church, (USA) leaders considering what theological
theme most informs our understanding of the Church.
Above: "Supper Call" by Charles Wysocki. Click here to order.
Leading as an Artisan
of Time© 2007 Brian R. Paulson
A
short piece written as meditation for colleagues upon the gift of pastoral
ministry through the lens of measured time.
A
Developing Vision of the Seminary
© 2003 Brian R. Paulson A
brief paper asserting that a seminary prepared to equip the church for the
coming century has a clearly defined approach to leadership, a distinctive
embodiment of the spiritual life in Christ, and a passion for
congregations in their practical witness.
© 2003 Brian R. Paulson A brief reflection on the possibility of
the ancient and biblical understanding of "Word" as a guide to
the way worship is creatively formed today.
The
Word as Dynamic Guide to Reformed Liturgical Construction