Readings: Words for Worship
How To Write Your Own Affirmations/ Covenants/ Doxologies
These are typically statements of belief that can be affirmed, or principles around which the community is entering (or has already entered) into a covenant, so care should be taken with these terms. They have meaning that should be respected. Is the affirmation that you’re writing one that the people in your congregation really can affirm? What about those who can’t (or won’t)? Sometimes a phrase like, “Will those who wish to join me in saying...” can provide space for those who disagree. The same is true if asking the congregation to join together in covenant around some issue. Take these things seriously, and always seek the counsel of others when considering these approaches.
How To Write Your Own Responsive Readings
This is a reading in which lines are alternately spoken by the reader and the congregation. The alternation can occur after sentences, phrases, or thoughts, depending on what seems appropriate. The alternation can also be between men and women, or the right side and left side of the congregation. [Generally the words of Responsive Readings are printed in the Order of Service, or bulletin, and the two parts are differentiated typographically—one part is in regular type and the other is in italics, for instance.]
How To Write Your Own Litanies
This is a particular kind of liturgical responsive reading, in which the congregation’s response is the same in each instance, even though the lines spoken by the reader change. It is usually tied together thematically, that is the response sets the theme/tone of the litany and each of the changing lines links back to it. (It goes without saying, perhaps, that the litany can reflect the theme of the service as a whole.)
How To Write Your Own Offering
Many congregations say the same words each time the offering is taken, yet there is an opportunity here to reflect on just what it means to be a self-sustaining community. What is the meaning of giving? Of generosity? Of your congregation and its place in your wider community or in the lives of its members? Where does the money go? What does money mean? All of these—and more—are subjects that could be reflected on in the offering.
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Last updated on Monday, April 11, 2011.
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