Worship in Conversation: Interviews with Liturgical Theologians

by Hwarang Moon

Overview

Why have such varied traditions of worship come down through history? The field of liturgical studies readily acknowledges that each tradition of worship has sought, in its own way, to worship faithfully. Biblical and hermeneutical efforts have shaped particular liturgical practices, yet these practices have also been shaped by the diverse cultural and historical contexts in which they developed. Understanding these divergences requires careful theological and historical reflection.

Worship in Conversation is the result of a scholarly inquiry into the complexities of Christian worship. Through extensive research and in-depth engagement with leading scholars in liturgical studies, this book explores how worship has been shaped by theological discourse, historical developments, and contemporary challenges. Drawing from a series of structured conversations, Hwarang Moon curates and analyzes key insights from these scholars, placing them within a broader framework that highlights both the diversity and the common threads of Christian worship.

Rather than merely presenting interviews, Worship in Conversation offers a critical exploration of the liturgical task. By structuring these dialogues around key theological themes and contemporary concerns, this book seeks to illuminate the ways in which worship continues to shape and be shaped by the life of the church. What emerges is a unifying vision that transcends denominational boundaries while honoring the richness of liturgical diversity.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781481323406
Publisher:	Baylor University Press
Publication date:	11/15/2025
Pages:	214
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x (d)

About the Author

Hwarang Moon is Professor of Worship at Korea Theological Seminary (Kosin University) in South Korea. He has published extensively in international peer-reviewed journals, including Theology Today, Studia Liturgica, Worship, The Christian Education Journal, and Religions, where he also serves on the editorial board. His work also appears in publications from Brill. His research focuses on liturgical theology in Reformed and global contexts.

Table of Contents

Introduction
1 John D. Witvliet
2 Don E. Saliers
3 Edward Foley
4 Frank Senn
5 Lester Ruth
6 Melanie Ross
7 Gordon Lathrop
8 E. Byron Anderson
9 David Hogue
10 William Willimon
11 Paul Westermeyer
12 Ruth Meyers
13 Stefanos Alexopoulos
14 David Gambrell
Conclusion

What People are Saying About This

Matthew Aughtry

Hwarang Moon’s book is a gift to anyone beginning the journey into the rich lands of Liturgical Theology and a helpful companion for those who have given their life to exploring the treasures of this discipline. Moon’s dialogues do what the best liturgy always does—they invite us into spaces we long to dwell in and then shoot us out to our own lives in a way that bears witness to the beauties and challenges we’ve encountered therein. Students should encounter this text early, scholars should cite it often, and anyone involved in Christian worship should consider listening in on these conversations for the sake of the church and the life of the world.

Dr. A.L. Van Ommen

Inviting renowned liturgical scholars, Hwarang Moon urges his readers to learn from a wide range of liturgical perspectives. Asking tailored questions of each of his interviewees, Moon explores the personal liturgical histories and views of eminent scholars in the field. The interview style heightens the book’s personal touch, making it most accessible to read. Come, take your place on the sofa alongside Moon, and learn from the wisdom of some of the greatest liturgical theologians of our time.