These long-awaited rites have been under discussion by the church for more than six years. Included are public rites, together with prayers for individual and family use, for all of the major stages of human development, from early childhood to retirement. In addition, a new collection of prayers and a simple rite for remembering the departed provide an important pastoral resource for human grieving in the weeks and months following the death of a loved one.

CONTENTS

Introductory Materials Including the theology and rationale for the rites, their structure and features

Planning for a Rite of Passage

Prayers for the Transitions of Childhood

Prayers and Rites for the Transitions of Young Adulthood

Including a rite of passage for young people and their parents; celebrating a significant birthday; the blessing of a betrothal

Prayers and a Rite for the Transitions of Midlife

Prayers and Rites for the Transitions of Elders

Prayers and a Rite for Remembering the Departed

Appendix containing suggested hymns and spiritual songs