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Resource: All
That We Are: An Arts and Worship Workbook
Aimee Wallis Buchanan, Bill Buchanan, and Jodi B.
Martin; Theological Expressions in Arts Ministry, Bridge Resources, 1999.
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What is the purpose of this resource?
This book is intended for those who seek to use the language of the arts in worship and ministry. This worship supplement provides numerous activities which could used in a variety of worship and Christian education settings. “Whether you are looking for a new method of Bible study, a fresh approach to proclaiming God’s Word, or alternate forms of personal worship…this book will get you started in expressing your faith in new ways through the arts.” - What characteristics
or components does this resource view as essential to worship and/or the
sacraments?
One of the fundamental components of worship expressed in this resource is the importance of coming to worship God with all that we are. Using Scripture and tradition, this resource provides a rationale for the inclusion of art related activities in worship and ministry. It stresses that we are called to worship God with all that are, which includes the artistic and creative parts of us. - What, if any,
particular theological perspective or agenda is present within this
material?
The dominant theological perspective in this resource is consistent with reformed theological ideas regarding worship. In particular, this resource explores the role of art in Presbyterian worship and ministry. There is even a chapter on references to arts in worship in the Directory for Worship. - For whom is this
resource intended (age group, interests, etc)?
In what settings (classroom, home, etc.)?
This workbook is intended for adults who work with youth, for youth themselves, and for all people who wish to explore arts in worship and ministry. It is written not just for the experienced dancer, actor, poet, or singer, but for anyone interested in expressing their faith through the arts. It is intended for a variety of settings. Some activities are appropriate for worship while others are more appropriate for Sunday school, youth events, or retreats. The settings are really dependent upon the activity selected for use. - What type of learning
activities are included in the lessons?
This resource includes a wide variety of learning activities. There are numerous activities about drama, liturgical movement, music, and the visual arts in general. These activities are general group activities, but some are designed for individuals who then share their work with the group. In the two lesson plans for developing arts in worship, there are excellent learning activities related to specific scriptural passages and the goal of developing arts in worship. - How is the resource
structured? (Lesson plans,
retreats, weekly meetings, worship services, etc.)
The resource is structured with a number of useful tools for someone interested in integrating arts into the worship and ministry of the local church. It begins with a rationale for the inclusion of arts in worship and ministry, as well as a definition of liturgical art. The resource also provides two methods for developing arts in worship. The first is the experimental process which includes hands on activities that help participants address some of typical challenges faced by church seeking to develop arts in worship. The other method is a deductive process that is intended for those already experienced with art and using art in worship. It involves participants reading Scripture and then discussing issues that will help them make decisions regarding arts in worship. The resource continues with chapters of activities on topics such as “Encouraging Creativity”, “Building a Group and Developing Trust”, “Drama”, and “Liturgical Movement.” The resource concludes with references to arts in worship in the Directory for Worship (P.C.U.S.A.) and a list of resources for including arts in worship. - How much does this
resource cost, and what is included in the price?
The resource costs $12.95 and includes the single book. - What kind of
leadership is necessary for the material?
What does the leader need to know or do prior to each week?
A leader is needed to guide the participants through the two methods of developing arts in worship as well as any of the additional activities. The resource is explicit about the role of the leader in the activities, materials required, and the time and space required by the activity. Essentially, the leader only needs to have previously read the material about the activity and made arrangements to have the supplies ready for the learning session. No prior or supplementary knowledge is required; only the book is needed. - What strengths and/or
weaknesses do you find in this material?
This resource is an excellent supplement to any church’s worship life and Christian education program. Three strengths in particular that I appreciate are the scriptural and theological rationale for using arts in worship and ministry, the two different approaches and methods for exploring the inclusion of arts in worship, and the references to arts in worship in the Directory of Worship. If I could change anything about this resource, I would have added more activities. The variety of activities is excellent, but a greater number would result in even more ways to include arts in a local church’s worship and ministry.