An Introduction To Ritual In Worship

All Christian communions, from Orthodox churches to charismatic congregations, participate in ritual when they worship. Whether one makes the sign of the cross or raises hands in worship, a ritual action takes place. Why some rituals are important and how we can deepen our worship through them is a matter of concern among those engaged in worship renewal. In the following paragraphs, a Roman Catholic writer addresses some of these issues. In the late twentieth century, in many different religious circles, we hear the cry,"Our religious rituals are not working. " From both the right and the left the cry is the same. Yet from outside the Roman Catholic circle our Christian brothers and sisters have begun to recognize our deep ritual heritage. Why is this cry all too true? What shall we do? Some of our present rituals (notably the Eucharist) have been robbed of their power and depth. In an attempt to clarify and purify our rituals to return them to their simplicity and integrity (a no…