This book examines critically the sources for Christian liturgical practices in the first three centuries and discusses how thse practices should be interpreted in order to avoid projecting modern concerns on to ancient times. Paul F. Bradshaw explores the variety of practices in the early Church and looks at the emergence of the classical shape of Christian liturgy as various traditions were brought together in the fourth century.
This new edition of the classic work has been rewritten to incorporate the fruits of the latest research and up-to-date bibliographical material. New chapters have been added on ministry and ordination, and on the effects of the coming of Christendom in the fourth century.
