Of Thine Own Have We Given Thee: A Liturgical Theology of the Offertory in Anglicanism

Christians offer money and in-kind gifts to the church, known as alms, which has influenced the liturgy, particularly in the offertory. Shawn O. Strout's book "Of Thine Own Have We Given Thee" provides a comprehensive analysis of the offertory rites, arguing that the development of oblation was the result of sustained theological tension and its importance for the church today.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: James Clarke & Co Ltd

Every Sunday, Christians worldwide offer money and in-kind gifts to the church, a tradition known as alms. This act raises questions about the meaning of offering God a gift in light of Jesus Christ's ultimate sacrifice. It also explores the balance of favor or gratitude in these gifts. These profound questions have significantly shaped the liturgy, particularly in the Anglican tradition. In his book "Of Thine Own Have We Given Thee," Shawn O. Strout delves into a comprehensive analysis of the offertory rites, encompassing various Anglican churches beyond the Church of England. The book spans from the sixteenth century to the present, examining the changes in the offertory and oblationary practices throughout their religious and historical contexts. Strout argues that the development of oblation in the offertory was not arbitrary or sporadic but rather the result of sustained theological tension. Through the use of liturgical theology's tools of historical, textual, and contextual analysis, the book explores the reasons behind these developments and their significance for the church today.

The offertory rites have undergone significant changes throughout history, reflecting the evolving theological understanding and practices of the church. Strout's book provides a valuable insight into these changes, shedding light on the theological tensions that drove them and their impact on the worship and devotion of Christians. Whether one is a scholar of liturgy, a worshipper seeking to deepen their understanding of the church's practices, or simply interested in the history and development of Christian worship, "Of Thine Own Have We Given Thee" is a must-read. It offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the offertory rites, providing a deeper appreciation of the church's rich tradition and its ongoing commitment to worship and service to God.

Weight: 420g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780227179963