PRAYER-BOOK REVISION.
[TO TUB EDITOR OP TR8 "spiscrsroal
Sin,—The need of Prayer-book revision is forcibly brought home to any one who attempts to explain the book to an out- sider,—to one perhaps who is, more or less, an inquirer with a view to becoming a Churchman. We have to begin by admitting that some of the instructions no one obeys, because they are practically impossible under the present conditions of modern life (e.g., the rubric at the commencement of Holy Communion: "So many as intend to be partakers of the Holy Communion shall signify their names to the Curate, at least some time the day before"). We have, further, to explain that opinions differ about a good many other directions—some considering them practically obsolete, while others endeavour to practise them—but that there are, again, other rubrics which all agree in accepting as obligatory. The above explanation is humiliating to the instructor, and confusing and discouraging to the instructed. Unkept rules are demoralising. We want a few definite directions which all—both clergy and laity—are expected to obey, and beyond this as much liberty as possible. Prayer-book revision must come. The question is, what is to be gained by waiting P If the fears of those who oppose revision are justified, we are only in a false position as we are; if their fears are not justified, there is nothing to lose and everything to gain by a reverent, careful, but real revision of the Prayer-book without further delay.—I am, Sir, &c.,
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