Essays: Christian Worship in Reformed Churches Past and Present

Joyce Borger

Lukas Vischer, ed. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2003. 444 pp. $45.00. ISBN 0802805205. www.eerdmans.com

For a further understanding of Reformed worship both globally and historically, consider adding this collection edited by Lukas Vischer (reviewed also in RW 68, p. 46). Includes essays on the Reformation and the development of worship on continental Europe, the United Kingdom, and North America by leading scholars. Also covers the history and practice of worship in South Africa, Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Pacific, and Australia by native scholars who do much to expand our understanding of our Reformed brothers and sisters. This substantial volume concludes with yet other contributors considering a Reformed response to contemporary issues. This book is as deep as it is wide, well worth investing the time it will take to read it. It also provides bibliographies for further research in each area.

Rev. Joyce Borger is a program manager at the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship for the area of practical worship planning and leading, which includes co-managing ReformedWorship.org, as well as serving as a content editor and resource creator for the website. Joyce is keen to listen to the questions being asked by churches and then identify, learn from, and amplify wise and gifted voices who can speak to them, as well as create platforms for gifts and learning to be shared. She has worked in the area of worship for over 20 years and has served as editor of several musical collections, including Psalms for All Seasons, and Lift Up Your Hearts: Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs (Faith Alive Christian Resources, 2011, 2013). She has taught worship courses at Kuyper College and is an ordained minister.