Occasional Celebrations of the Anglican Church of Canada

Toronto, ON: ABC Publishing; General Synod of the Anglican Church of Canada, 2010. — 232 p. — ISBN: 0-921846-51-7The Book of Alternative Services of the Anglican Church of Canada was published in 1985. Like The Book of Common Prayer it contains the frequently used liturgical texts which the church needs for its everyday and ongoing life. However, there are other events and occasions when people want to pray together for which texts are also required. This book is intended to meet that need. The forms provided in this book should be regarded as models and not as rigid scripts whose details must be followed exactly. These texts should be used as the basis of adaptation which evokes the liturgical creativity of the local church. For instance, the material provided for each of the seasonal festivals of readings and music is much more abundant than any congregation could use on one occasion. Similarly, the section devoted to the subject of blessing provides not only suggestions for those who wish to write their own forms of blessing but also theological reflection on the principles involved. This book also bears witness to the fact that the liturgical process is always unfinished, not least because that process reflects subtle movements in the church’s understanding. For instance, the rite of induction has been the subject of some discussion (even disagreement) in the church in recent years. Opinions on its purpose and nature have varied. This division of opinion finds expression in the two forms of induction offered here, reflecting two different (but legitimate) approaches to the relationship of minister, congregation, and the common task. This book is published in looseleaf form to facilitate ongoing expansion and change. In the course of time new texts will undoubtedly be created and some of the texts in the book may be replaced. This collection does not exhaust new possibilities. This book was prepared by a number of members of a number of committees over a period of some years. It reflects the styles and emphases of several authors. Its variety complements the variety in unity which may be found throughout the church. It is the task of congregations and their liturgical leaders to make these rites their own in ways which are appropriate to their contexts.Seasons and Festivals
Liturgies of Membership
Liturgies Relating to Marriage
Liturgies Relating to Death and Burial
Installation and Commissioning
Blessings and Prayers for the Created Order