Church, World, Mission

The questions raised in this collection of essays pertain to a wide range of subjects: history, theology, liturgy, canonical order, the ecumenical movement, and mission. One underlying question, from which they all stem and to which they all ultimately refer, gives them an inner unity and cohesion: What is the destiny of the Orthodox Church in this second half of the twentieth century, in a world and culture radically different from those that shaped the Orthodox mentality, thought-forms and life-styles of the past? Witty, provocative, Church, World, Missionis essential reading for all interested in the role of Orthodoxy in the world today.

Father Alexander Schmemann (+ 1983) was a prolific writer, brilliant lecturer, and dedicated pastor. Former dean and professor of liturgical theology at St Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary, his insight into contemporary culture and liturgical celebration left an indelible mark on the Christian community worldwide.