Drawing together international and Indian sources, and new research on the ground in South India, this book presents a unique examination of the inculturation of Christian Worship in India. Paul M. Collins examines the imperatives underlying the processes of inculturation - the dynamic relationship between the Christian message and cultures - and then explores the outcomes of those processes in terms of architecture, liturgy and ritual, and the critique offered of these outcomes, especially by Dalit theologians. This book highlights how the Indian context has informed global discussions, and how the decisions of the World Council of Churches, Vatican II and Lambeth Conferences have impacted upon the Indian context.
Biography
The Revd Dr Paul M. Collins is Reader in Theology at the University of Chichester, UK. A priest of the Church of England, he has worked in theological education for twenty years, first at Chichester Theological College, then at the Queen's Foundation, Birmingham and presently at the University of Chichester. His research interests include the doctrines of the Trinity, Theosis and the Church, and inculturation, especially in South India. He is currently a member of the Faith and Order Advisory Group of the Church of England.
’...an exceedingly good introduction... Collins provides introductions and signposts in the field of inculturation which will offer those who are interested a vast itinerary of places to explore.’ Vidyajyoti Journal of Theological Reflection ’... a positive contribution to the literature on Christian faith and culture in India...’ Worship ’... the book is recommended for students of contextualization in South India.’ Missiology ’In this study the author has made a great contribution to the understanding of liturgical traditions in South India, in relation to the particular view of what Indian-ness may be said to be.’ Questions Liturgiques/Studies in Liturgy ’Collins' work provides a model to critically examine Christian inculturation attempts in every cultural context.’ Theological Book Review '... this book contains a mine of examples. ... This book is highly recommended to missiologists, church historians and theologians, as well as liturgists and teachers of worship.' Ecclesiology
