Worship and Sacraments Exam

The Book of Order states: "Worship and Sacrament. This examination shall assess the candidate's understanding of the meaning and purpose of corporate worship and the sacraments, familiarity with the "Directory for Worship" and the Book of Confessions, and their application in the life of worshipping communities" [G-14.0310d (4)].

General Musings

• On this test you will be asked:
  • to explain and apply explicit requirements of the "Directory for Worship" in tangible pastoral situations;
  • to react to a given situation with pastoral sensitivity within the constitutional standards;
  • to express how the theological beliefs of our church support the rituals and practices of worship; and
  • to reflect on the interaction between the two main roles of the church: its worship and its ministry to the people of the world.
    
• You will not be able to use the "Directory for Worship" on the Reflection and Ministry sections of the exam, but it is necessary to know it. Be able to quote from it, if possible. If you can't remember specifics, then at least say something like "In chapter three, the "Directory for Worship" addresses this issue by saying . . ." It is important to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding by referring to specific passages or areas.
  
• Make sure to include the importance of rules in regard to the administrations of the sacraments.
  
• On almost every test there is a question concerning communion and/or baptism. Be ready. It would help if you plan how you would respond. Look up baptism and communion in the "Directory for Worship" and in each of the confessions. How are these issues addressed?
  
• Funerals and weddings also are frequently the basis for questions, but any of the special services mentioned in the "Directory for Worship" may be used.

The Sections of the Worship and Sacraments Exam

I. Reformed Liturgical Heritage, II.Constructive Theological Reflection on Reformed Worship, and III. Application to Ministry

You have one hour for each of the three parts. You should bring a clean unmarked copy of the Book of Confessions to use in the first section of the exam. Sections I and II contain one question each. Section III has two questions from which you are to choose one. There are two parts to each question. In part 1, be sure to identify the issues of the given situation and how these difficulties should be dealt with according to the Book of Confessions. It is very important to carry the insights developed in part 1 over to part 2.

Section I--Reformed Liturgical Heritage-open book

• When you cite from the Book of Confessions, give the specific number such as "Westminster 6:040." Cite from more than one confession if possible.
• Make sure you tie these citations to the rules, discipline and the community life of the Christian church. It is not enough to just write, "the xxxx confession says." How does this apply to the life of the Church and the lives of Christians? How does this reflect Reformed tradition?
• Part 2 asks that you respond to individuals in a given situation. In this second part of the question, refer back to the information in part 1.

Section II--Constructive Theological Reflection-closed book

• This question asks for a theological explanation, not just a quote from the "Directory for Worship" or The Book of Confessions.
• Try to explain your theology by using more than one of the confessions. This shows that you have broad knowledge and understanding of the confessions. You may use Biblical insights and classical and contemporary theologians.
• Make sure you read the question completely and connect each ritual to the theological basis for that custom.
• Part 2 asks that you respond to individuals in a given situation. In this second part of the question, refer back to the information in part 1.

Section III--Application to Ministry-closed book

• You will be asked to respond to one of two given situations. Read both questions before you decide which one to answer. Once you've decided, reread the chosen one.
• In part 1, be sure to identify the issues of the given scenario and how these difficulties are dealt with in the "Directory for Worship."
• Part 2 asks that you respond to individuals in a given situation. In this second part of the question, refer back to the information in part 1.
• Look at the situation from each person's point of view--not just yours as the pastor. It is important to evaluate issues from different perspectives.
• Your writing should reflect the kind of sensitivity and concern that you, as a pastor, would have for your congregation.

Suggested Bibliography*

The Book of Confessions. Louisville, KY: Geneva Press, 1996.

Book of Order. Louisville, KY: General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church            (U.S.A.), 1991. ("Directory for Worship" chapters)

White, James F. Introduction to Christian Worship. Nashville: Abingdon Press,             1990.

*Prepared by the faculty at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary

printable version

Need Help? Just ASC.
Return to the ASC Home page.