Watch A History of Christian Worship: Ancient Ways, Future Paths

"A History of Christian Worship: Ancient Ways, Future Paths" from Ensign Media is a six-part documentary series that delves into the rich history and diverse practices of Christian worship. Through stunning visuals and interviews with religious leaders and scholars, the series traces the evolution of Christian worship from its earliest days to the present, exploring the ways in which it has been shaped by cultural, social, and political forces.

The first episode sets the stage by examining the worship practices of the early Christian church, which were heavily influenced by Jewish traditions. Viewers learn how early Christians gathered in homes, shared meals, and participated in rituals such as baptism and the Eucharist. The episode also explores the role of music in worship, highlighting the centrality of the Psalms in early Christian hymnody and the emergence of liturgical chant in the Byzantine and Roman Catholic churches.

Subsequent episodes examine the development of Christian worship in different historical periods and regions. The second episode, for example, looks at the rise of the monastic movement in the Middle Ages and its impact on worship practices such as the Divine Office and Gregorian chant. The third episode explores the Protestant Reformation and its emphasis on congregational singing and vernacular worship. Viewers also learn about the development of hymnody in the English-speaking world and the impact of revivalism and gospel music on American worship traditions.

The series also highlights the diversity of Christian worship around the world, profiling communities that have developed unique worship styles and practices. One episode features an Orthodox Christian community in Ethiopia that blends ancient worship traditions with indigenous music and dance. Another episode focuses on the Pentecostal movement in Brazil and its lively, exuberant worship style.

Throughout the series, viewers also hear from religious leaders and scholars who provide insight into the theological and spiritual dimensions of worship. They explore questions such as: What is the role of worship in Christian faith? How have different worship traditions shaped Christian identity and practice? What does it mean to worship God in spirit and truth?

Perhaps most importantly, "A History of Christian Worship" invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences of worship and to consider how their own traditions have been shaped by the past and might evolve in the future. The series celebrates the rich diversity of Christian worship and its power to connect individuals and communities with God and one another.

A History of Christian Worship: Ancient Ways, Future Paths is a series that ran for 1 seasons (6 episodes) between June 10, 2010 and on Ensign Media