Languages of Worship

Four Liturgical Theologies

Abstract

Ethnodoxologists work at the intersections of disciplines that include both cultural studies and theology. Many seek to guide others in meaningful expressions of worship and are therefore engaged in a theological task, one that is implicated in the work of adapting liturgy to local cultural expressions. It is therefore important for those advisors to recognize their own theological inclinations regarding worship. This essay outlines four primary “worship languages,” or liturgical theologies, that inform much of the ethnodoxology work happening around the world.