The impact of the liturgical and charismatic movements on hymns and songs in contemporary worship, with special reference to the parish church of St Nicholas, Durham.

Abstract

Music is a subject which has always been the cause of much debate within the church. The last century in particular has seen a considerable amount of change, in both the musical styles that have emerged and the place that congregational song has been given in worship. There have been a number of reasons for such changes, many of which relate to the liturgical reforms of the twentieth century. In this thesis1 investigate both the musical changes and the liturgical reforms which have led to them. I do this by considering these developments within the context of the Church of England, and by examining the effects that they have had upon one specific church, namely St Nicholas', Durham. The thesis begins with an introduction to the three components of my research, namely the liturgical reforms of the last century, the musical changes which have, to a great extent, occurred as a direct result of such reforms, and the specific case of St Nicholas', Durham. In each of the three following chapters I begin by examining the developments and issues to be discussed in the context of the Church of England. 1 then consider these developments and issues in relation to St Nicholas'. In Chapter 1 I discuss the liturgical reforms of the last century, focussing particularly on the characteristics of the Liturgical Movement and the changes made in terms of Anglican liturgy. I also examine the Charismatic Movement. In Chapter 2 I examine the effects that the Liturgical and Charismatic Movements have had upon music in the church. In Chapter 3 I consider the role congregational song plays in worship and its implications. I conclude by summarising the main issues, showing how the more general issues facing the church have had significant consequences for music in the church.