New Books for 2008 | Chris Ellis on Approaching God

Approaching God: A Guide to Leading Worship (Canterbury Press, September 2008)

Worship in the evangelical tradition is a blend of prepared and extempore contributions. It generally follows a set pattern, but openness to spontaneity is an essential ingredient. As in other traditions, ministers and worship leaders receive very little training in how to lead worship and this book meets a pressing need. It considers many aspects of worship including: Why do we worship? Who is worship for? Patterns and shapes in worship, types of prayer, singing, preaching, The Lord's Supper, details of leading, the spirituality of leading worship, connections to the whole of life, Worship as encounter, Worship as pastoral care, Worship as evangelism, and Worship as celebration. A directory of resources and online worship is also provided.

Chris Ellis is author of Gathering: Spirituality and Worship in Free Church Tradition (2004) and co-editor of Gathering for Worship (2005)