Of Thine Own Have We Given Thee

“This is a theologically life-changing book. For many, the ‘collection’ or the ‘offertory’ is simply the chance for the church to get some money to cover the costs of running the congregation. Shawn Strout’s masterful survey of the acts of oblation invites readers to see how this tradition evolved. Every congregational leader should read this book and ensure that the place of ‘giving to God’ is truly given an appropriate liturgical and theological place.”


—Ian S. Markham, Virginia Theological Seminary





“The treatment of offering and presence in the Anglican tradition has tended to center on the Prayer of Consecration. However, the ‘offertory’ was also a contested liturgical unit at the Reformation, and it has not received the extended treatment it deserves. In this study, Shawn Strout has filled the gap with a full historical and theological treatment of this liturgical unit as it has progressed and developed in Anglican prayer books. Scholars and students will benefit greatly from this study.”


—Bryan D. Spinks, Yale Divinity School, emeritus





“Shawn Strout presents a compelling examination of the offertory in Anglicanism by a thorough and penetrating historical analysis coupled with a profound theological exposition. This comprehensive study guides the reader through a fascinating development that facilitates a tradition-based understanding of this rite in today’s church.”


—Mark Morozowich, The Catholic University of America





“Shawn Strout’s book provides an excellent overview of the offertory reform in sixteenth-century Anglicanism. This important book also studies the new and dynamic ritual development that followed. This evolution was nourished by a variety of cultural contributions in Anglican Communion. Of Thine Own Have We Given Thee catalogues these developments and uncovers their theological roots and implications. It will serve as an indispensable resource for future study of the Anglican offertory for years to come.”


—Dominic E. Serra, The Catholic University of America