Description
Worship can be a powerful way to encounter the living God. Our stories intersect with God's story as the gifts of God are celebrated and shared by the people of God. Episcopal priest Furman L. Buchanan explores and reflects on each element of Holy Eucharist, the service most often held on Sunday mornings. Moving from the first spoken word of the service—blessed—to the last phrase—Thanks be to God—Buchanan explains the theological and scriptural elements of the service, helping newcomers and longtime members alike gain a deeper understanding of this gift of God.
Buchanan also shares his own stories, connecting pivotal life experiences with the words and actions of Holy Eucharist. Thoughtful questions at the end of each chapter invite readers to reflect on their own stories and how they connect with God's story of love and life.
Click here for Clergy Aids. A small group study guide for Gifts of God for the People of God is available here.
Visit his website to learn more about author and priest, Furman Buchanan.
Gifts of God for the People of God has received a silver medal in the Theology category of the The Illumination Awards.
Also available on the Amazon Kindle, Barnes and Noble Nook, and on Apple Books.
Editorial Reviews
In The Gifts of God for the People of God, Furman Buchanan has given the Church a practical, theological, and devotional roadmap to the Eucharist. This book is accessible enough for people who are exploring their faith, and offers deep insight as we grow in our understanding of our worship. I am grateful for this work as a tool for evangelism, formation, and worship in the Episcopal Church.
-The Rev. Canon Alan D. Bentrup, Canon for Evangelism and Mission, Episcopal Diocese of Upper South Carolina
The Eucharist has captured minds of the religious and secular alike for two millennia. Whether one encounters its rhythm weekly, every Christmas and Easter, or just in the occasional movie plot, its place in Western Civilization cannot be overstated. And yet, for most, it remains a mystery to be observed and not unpacked for application to daily life. In this book, Furman Buchanan not only reveals the mechanics of the sacred meal, he narratively invites the reader into exploration, taking us off the normal map of churchy-overstatement and into the gifts of God for the people of God in everyday life. He mixes the knowledge of a seasoned Episcopal priest with the vulnerable journey of human life. It’s a grand read for those who believe or try to believe.
-The Rev. Michael Sullivan, President & CEO of Kanuga
From a deeply grounded engagement with the Eucharist, Furman Buchanan weaves his own experiences of his life in faith. These experiences help highlight the ways in which the Eucharist is made relevant in our daily life with Christ.
-The Rev. Canon James Hartley, Canon for Christian Formation, Congregational Vitality, and Missional Communities, Diocese of Upper South Carolina
In Gifts of God for the People of God, Furman Buchanan weaves together teaching and storytelling to create a wonderful introduction or refresher to Episcopal liturgy. He breaks down each of the elements of our worship in accessible language. The reflection questions at the end of each section welcome individuals or groups to dive deeper into their own place in the service. I look forward to sharing this with congregations. -Andrea McKellar, Episcopal Church in South Carolina
Remarkably accessible for anyone. Joyfully challenging for everyone.
-The Rev. Deacon Ann Pilat, Deacon for Hispanic Ministries, Episcopal Diocese of Upper S.C.
What Customers Are Saying
After reading this book, I have an even deeper and greater appreciation for the worship experience. The reflection and practice exercises at the end of each chapter helps me to stop, reflect, go deeper and explore the Holy Eucharist beyond Sunday mornings. This book is an excellent devotional tool for mapping my spiritual journey. I really liked how Father Furman so nicely describes the different parts of the Holy Eucharist, Rite II in everyday terms and language. I enjoyed him sharing his personal stories & reflections to give the book even more depth and understanding. -Laurie A Snow, Amazon Review