Liturgy and Life: Lectures and Essays on Christian Development Through Liturgical Experience

by Alexander Schmemann

This is an explanation of Christian development through liturgical experience from Father Alexander Schmemann (1921-1983) a prolific writer, brilliant lecturer, and dedicated pastor. Former dean and professor of liturgical theology at St Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary, his insight into contemporary culture and liturgical celebration left an indelible mark on the Christian community worldwide.

Genres: Theology, Spirituality, Christianity

112 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1993

About the author

Protopresbyter Alexander Schmemann was a prominent Eastern Orthodox theologian and priest of the Orthodox Church in America.

Reviews

[Rick Stuckwisch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a lovely little book, stemming, I gather, from lectures that Schmemann gave on the topic. Though I would not agree with him on every theological point, and though his way of approaching and expressing some aspects of the faith (as an Eastern Orthodox Christian) is somewhat different than my own (as a Lutheran), I found his discussion beautiful and helpful. His insights into the Liturgy and its theological significance are both profound and practical, as well as strikingly evangelical in ways that might surprise many Lutheran readers. Well worth reading.

[Dionysi Krinas · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book that provides an introduction into the study of Orthodox worship and how expression of this worship is best appreciated with an organic connection to Spiritual education in the Church.

Very highly recommended

[Tim Hatfield · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book. He is of course an "orthodox" with a big "o" but that only comes out glaringly and sadly when he says something like "and on the lords day when you light the candles at your shrines and icons..." ;). There are some things in it,very small quotes that make the book worth the read.

He has a perhaps alien view of liturgy and how it does and should impact the believer, how it shapes us and our children from Before the time they are even able to reason. I ultimately fizzled out after about half of it because I believe I need to lay some more foundation before continuing. Like Rob rayburn, Jeff Meyers, James jordan and some others then maybe come back to schmemmen. So it is a good read but I suggest having your soul and mind deeply soaked with worship and it's importance before diving in.

[RF]

This author is well-known for his writing on liturgy -I can't wait to get my hands on this one! I heart liturgy - what can I say?