Liturgical Terrorism

        Liturgical terrorism is the imposition of Services and/or ceremonial on congregations without the clear and enthusiastic consent of the vast majority. The Services and ceremonial can usually be justified theologically and historically (which is the case for virtually all practices of worship). Yet, the replacement of the piety which has nurtured people for most of their lives implies that their former ways were insufficient, defective, and somehow lacking in God's grace; the new way is better for them.

        Liturgical terrorism takes many forms, including rigidly enforced ceremonial practices preferred by local clergy; addiction by local and/or denominational clergy to a particular Service(s); the unduly lengthening of Services because of a dubious "more is better" assumption; unsingable music regarded as "better" by the artistic elite; intrusive parading about; twisting worship of God into an informal picnic atmosphere; announcements tinged with weak humor for entertainment purposes; and, the use of ecclesiastical gadgets which no longer have any function.

        Liturgical terrorism alienates many people of all ages and may well account, at least in part, for the decrease in attendance of worship in liturgical churches.