Reaching out without dumbing down : a theology of worship for the turn-of-the-century culture / Marva J. Dawn.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 308-316).

Why this book is critically needed -- Inside the technological, boomer, postmodern culture -- Outside the idolatries of contemporary culture -- Upside-down: worship as a subversive act -- God as the center of worship: who is worship for? -- The character of the believer: having content or being content? -- The character of the Church as a Christian community: what is at stake? -- Throwing the baby out with the bath water or putting the baby in fresh clothes: music -- Worship ought to kiss us: the word -- Discovering our place in the story: ritual and liturgy and art -- Reaching out without dumbing down -- The Church as its own worst enemy: is it happening again? -- Appendix: sample children's sermons.

"Seeking to help local churches think more thoroughly about worship and culture so that they can function effectively in contemporary society, Dawn roots her discussion of worship issues in a careful assessment of significant aspects of the present technological, postmodern society and names criteria by which to judge various cultural influences. She also sketches the essential attributes of true worship - worship that keeps God at the center, builds believers' character, and upbuilds the community." "In the process, Dawn discusses music, preaching, Scripture readings, rituals, liturgies, art, and all the accoutrements of worship, and offers practical suggestions for choosing the best tools and forms to deepen worship life, to nurture faith development, and to increase believers' outreach throughout the church and to the world."--Jacket.