ABSTRACT
In this concluding chapter, a final critical appraisal is offered of the work of the three mediators. The chapter then moves to a synthesis of the “tools” gleaned from the study in an attempt to answer the questions raised in the introduction. The chapter argues that each mediator desired for some commonality in the connectional system that is American Methodism. All three advocate for a greater awareness of Wesley’s liturgical intentions as exemplified in The Sunday Service of the Methodists in North America and the Wesleyan hymns. While each interprets Wesley’s intentions slightly differently, all three mediators view the Sunday Service and Wesleyan hymnody as anchor points for American Methodist worship. Drawing from this liturgical heritage, the mediators amplified essentials like Scripture, sacraments, prayer, and congregational singing in their work. Next, the chapter explores aspects of Methodist liturgical piety that were upheld by each of the mediators. Methodist worship for these mediators is “rooted,” “inculturated,” “corporate,” “personal,” and “sanctifying.” Chapter Seven concludes by looking at the implications of these findings for current liturgical practices in Methodist congregations.
