Contemporary Christian Worship: Origins, Theory and Practice

Dear Colleagues,

The focus of this Special Issue is centered on “Contemporary Christian Worship: Origins, Theory, and Practice.” This timely collection seeks to delve into the rich tapestry of modern Christian worship, exploring its historical roots, theoretical frameworks, and practical applications within today’s diverse and dynamic context.

The primary aim of this Special Issue is to curate a comprehensive compilation of scholarly articles that offer insight into the multifaceted nature of contemporary Christian worship. We welcome contributions that not only recount the historical journey and transformations of worship practices but also critically examine the theological and theoretical underpinnings that shape these practices. Furthermore, we seek to understand how these elements are lived out in the worship experience of communities across the globe.

The scope of this Special Issue thus encompasses a broad range of topics. Historical analyses may trace the evolution of worship practices from ancient traditions to their modern incarnations, highlighting the influences of various reformations and cultural movements. Theoretical explorations might dissect the liturgical, biblical, and pastoral foundations that inform current worship methodologies. Empirical studies are also encouraged to document and analyze current practices, innovations, and the lived experiences of worshipers. Hence, this Special Issue plans to publish articles reflecting the following investigative areas and beyond:

• Trace the historical and theological Origins of contemporary worship practices, identifying key figures, movements, and moments that have shaped its development.
• Analyze theoretical frameworks that underpin contemporary worship, including theological, sociological, and musical perspectives.
• Explore practical applications in various contexts, highlighting innovative approaches to worship, the integration of technology, and the role of worship in community engagement and spiritual growth.
• Examine cultural and cross-cultural dynamics in worship practices, including the impact of globalization and the exchange between different cultural expressions of faith.
• Investigate the role of music and arts in contemporary worship, including the evolution of worship music, the use of visual arts, and the significance of creative expression in worship settings.

We welcome contributions from a variety of disciplinary perspectives including, but not limited to, theology, liturgy, musicology, anthropology, sociology, digital media studies, and cultural studies. Interdisciplinary approaches that bridge these fields are particularly encouraged to reflect the complexity and diversity of worship practices.

Prior to submitting a manuscript, interested authors should initially submit a proposed title and an abstract of 400–600 words summarizing their intended contribution. Please send it to the Guest Editor, Dr. Sunggu A. Yang ([email protected]) or to the Managing Section Editor ([email protected]). Abstracts will be reviewed by the Guest Editor for the purposes of ensuring proper fit within the scope of the Special Issue. Full manuscripts will undergo double-blind peer-review

Dr. Sunggu Yang
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a double-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Religions is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1800 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• liturgy
• worship music
• theology of worship
• Christian rituals
• worship innovation
• cultural context
• liturgical history
• worship practices
• ecclesiology
• digital worship