BCP 350: Dead Letter or Living Legacy
A public seminar marking the 350th anniversary of the publication of the 1662 Book of Common Prayer.

St Mark’s National Theological Centre,
5 Blackall St, Barton ACT 2600

Session one: Thursday 23rd August, 3:00pm-5:30pm
Session two: Friday 24th August, 9:00am-4:00pm

This August marks the 350th anniversary of the publication of the 1662 Book of Common Prayer (BCP). One of the most influential literary productions in the English language, the 1662 edition of the BCP has exerted a profound impact on literature, language and theology; as well as on how people have prayed and worshipped for 350 years. The BCP’s wider influence has been felt as it has accompanied the Church of England’s expansion from a national church to a global communion since the seventeenth century.

St Mark’s National Theological Centre is using this anniversary as an opportunity for a public seminar to reassess the BCP’s influence, significance and relevance both for the past and for today. Several papers will situate the BCP within its historical context during the Reformation and the seventeenth century and in different phases of Australian history, colonial and modern. Other papers will examine the theological content and influence of the BCP, while others will address the question of its relevance and value for the 21st century in settings ranging from the modern parish to youth culture. Along with a choral evensong using the rubric of the 1662 BCP, this seminar will enable participants to deepen their experience as well as their understanding of one of the most important documents in our history.

This seminar, open to all members of the public, is a wonderful opportunity to hear some of Australia’s finest historians and theologians.

If you wish to attend, please visit the following website for more information on registration: http://www.stmarksntc.org.au/home/news_events/bcp350/bcp350.htm