In Christian Symbol and Ritual, Bernard Cooke and Gary Macy offer an accessible and engaging introduction to
the topic written from a non-denominational perspective. Cooke and Macy demonstrate that celebration, ritual, and
symbol are already central to our lives, even though most do not see their actions as symbolic or ritualistic.
They connect central Christian symbols to the symbols and rituals already present in everyday life and place Christian
theology in a familiar context. After discussing the characteristics and functions of rituals, they explore different
kinds of ritual, including those of friendship, worship, and healing. The authors also examine such questions as
how rituals establish and maintain power relationships, how "official" rituals are different from "popular"
Christian rituals and devotions, and how Christian rituals function in the process of human salvation. Christian
Symbol and Ritual is an invaluable resource for students, teachers, and lay readers.