ABSTRACT
This chapter explores what extent the texts analysed show consistency with the principles of liturgical revision. It examines more thoroughly, using evidence arising from linguistic analysis, is the question of whether the language of the texts under review is truly contemporary. The chapter addresses the question of whether modern liturgical language is deserving of the criticism which it has incurred, notably, that set of judgements. It explores the question of whether liturgical texts in contemporary language are likely to fulfil the criteria for worship. The chapter focuses on the language of the selected texts following the same process used in the analysis of the extract from the Book of Common Prayer (BCP). The psalms, and in particular the canticles, in the BCP are frequently acknowledged to be masterpieces of liturgical composition. It could be argued that the language of Anglican Christian doctrine has become enshrined in the BCP, and its continuing use in modern liturgy is inevitable and appropriate.
