The word atonement is not found in the New Testament, although a suggestion of its basic meaning is found in Peter’s statement that “love covers a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8). But the concept of atonement underlies the apostolic proclamation that “Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said” (1 Corinthians 15:3), and the New Testament theologians approach the mystery of the atonement using symbols drawn from Israelite worship....

A constant enemy of worship leaders is busyness, for it takes them away from the all-important time spent with God. Other aspects of personal preparation for worship leading include knowing the needs of the congregation one serves; beginning preparations for services early in the week, if not weeks ahead of time (by choosing sermon themes far in advance); and seeking input from others....

The Reformed Church in America has been influenced by the liturgical movement, the renaissance in the arts, and the praise-and-worship movement. While most churches observe a traditional approach to worship, a great variety of worship styles can be found in the RCA....

This eductional piece on the meaning of Lent that may be reprinted in your church bulletin. Fee free to adapt it to meet the needs of your congregation....

A concise, informative, and entertaining explanation of Lent and why it's a vital part of the Easter season....

Ash Wednesday (with or without receiving ashes) and the season of Lent remind us that the biblical narrative has some darker themes and threads as well, and we are not doing the Scriptures justice if we totally neglect them. We want to be well-rounded Christians, shaped by the whole counsel of God, not just a few favorite "happy" texts. The church calendar imposes a discipline upon us, bringing us into contact with the more unsettling, uncomfortable teachings of the Word. But it does so in order that we may have a fuller and deeper joy when the celebrative seasons of......

Worship in the United Methodist Church draws from both the Catholic and Protestant heritage. The denomination contains both strong liturgical and charismatic movements. Worship today is characterized by emphasis on the Christian year, frequent Communion, use of the arts, and commitment to inclusive language and women in liturgical leadership....

The liturgy of the Armenian church reveals the influence of many sources, but is basically of Syrian origin. It expresses the theme of sacrifice more than other Eastern liturgies and has the flavor of a temple rite....

In worship a person gives to the Lord all of the conflicts, struggles, and disappointments that affect his or her life. Leaving them in the Father’s hands, the worshiper focuses attention on the power and majesty of God. As we worship, the brokenness of our lives begins to be healed....

The Evangelical Free Church does not dictate worship style to its congregations. For this reason, each community may respond to various trends. Some have been influenced by renewal movements, but most are shaped by an evangelical gospel tradition or by the more recent praise-and-worship tradition....