The Sanctuary: Preparing the Church for Worship

A.J. Pell is the rector of Holy Trinity Cathedral, Diocese of New
Westminster in British Columbia.

In the Anglican tradition, great emphasis is placed on the work of
preparing the sanctuary for worship. The (usually) women who perform
this task form the parish Altar Guild. The Sanctuary is designed to be
both a training manual and an ongoing reference for Altar Guild members.

The book is divided into three sections. “Background and Customs”
explains the running of an Altar Guild and provides information about
the church year, the liturgical colors, and the traditional design of a
church building. “Furnishings: Their Use and Care” discusses the
furniture, vessels, linens, vestments, and decorations used in Anglican
worship. “Services: The Setting Up” outlines preparations for both
routine and special-occasion services.

The Sanctuary contains a wealth of information that will help Guild
members go about their work in an intelligent fashion, regardless of
variations in liturgical style and local customs. The text is clear, and
Hart’s drawings are most helpful. Every Anglican parish should have a
copy of this book.