The Book of Common Prayer

This source of strength and solace for millions of Christian clergy and laypeople throughout the world can be a companion for your own spiritual journey.

For centuries, Christians of different traditions and seekers from various backgrounds have found strength for their spiritual journey in the Book of Common Prayer (BCP). First composed in 1549 by Thomas Cranmer, Henry VIII's Archbishop of Canterbury, the BCP, alongside Shakespeare's works and the King James Bible, helped shape the English language. Today almost eighty million Anglican Christians throughout the world use the BCP in public worship, and countless people—Anglican and otherwise—use it in their private devotional life.

In this unique presentation of selections—organized by themes such as "Blessings in Times of Joy and Pain," "Called to Serve" and “Praise and Petition”—with facing-page commentary, C. K. Robertson offers fascinating insights into the history and heritage of the BCP. He also makes available the riches of this spiritual treasure chest for all who are interested in deepening their life of prayer, building stronger relationships and making a difference in the world.

This source of strength and solace for millions of Christian clergy and laypeople throughout the world can be a companion for your own spiritual journey.

For centuries, Christians of different traditions and seekers from various backgrounds have found strength for their spiritual journey in the Book of Common Prayer (BCP). First composed in 1549 by Thomas Cranmer, Henry VIII's Archbishop of Canterbury, the BCP, alongside Shakespeare's works and the King James Bible, helped shape the English language. Today almost eighty million Anglican Christians throughout the world use the BCP in public worship, and countless people—Anglican and otherwise—use it in their private devotional life.

In this unique presentation of selections—organized by themes such as "Blessings in Times of Joy and Pain," "Called to Serve" and “Praise and Petition”—with facing-page commentary, C. K. Robertson offers fascinating insights into the history and heritage of the BCP. He also makes available the riches of this spiritual treasure chest for all who are interested in deepening their life of prayer, building stronger relationships and making a difference in the world.

Foreword vii
The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori
Preface ix
Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu
Introduction xi
1. A Life of Prayer 1
2. Belonging and Building Relationships 45
3. Blessing in Times of Joy and Pain 93
4. Called to Serve 119
5. Praise and Petition 145
Using the Prayer Book as a Spiritual Tool 167
Suggestions for Further Reading 170