By Fr. Sean McDermott
I am very excited to announce Earth & Altar's first book publication is coming soon. Guide to the Mass for Anglican Youth and Newcomers helps guide people through the 1928 Prayer Book Mass. As Anglicans, the Mass is the center of our faith. But what does it all mean? Guide to the Mass explores the words and gestures of the liturgy and explains their profound significance. This book features a simple step-by-step walk-through of the Holy Communion service from the 1928 Book of Common Prayer as well as answering common questions and answers. Sections also include: The Church Calendar, Guide to Music in the Mass, What's What in the Church, Mass Etiquette, and more.
Written specifically for youth and newcomers, Guide to the Mass is a handy volume to provide the information you need to deepen your understanding of the Mass. Why do we bow? What is the priest doing at the altar? Why do we kneel? What is the purpose of incense? Why do bells ring? These are just a few of the many answers in this book.
Jackie Jamison and I wrote the book over the last few months. We were blessed to team up with Amy and Matt Clark, who attend St. Alban's Cathedral in Orlando, Florida. Amy is an amazing graphic designer, and Matt provided us with original drawings. Please check out his work here to see more. We are hoping to get the book ready to order in the next couple of weeks--so please be on the lookout!
Fr. Sean McDermott is Curate at All Saints Anglican in Charlottesville, Va and Editor in Chief at Earth & Altar.