The words of The Book of Common Prayer have worked their way deeply into the hearts and minds of English-speaking people, second only to the English Bible and the works of Shakespeare. This collection of essays from knowledgeable and high profile contributors seeks not only to explore and commemorate the Book of Common Prayer's influence in the past but also to commend it for present use, and as an indispensable part of the Church's future -- both as a working liturgy and as the definitive source of Anglican doctrine.