Inclusive Language in the Book of Common Prayer

Abstract This chapter outlines the theological issues around gendered language for God as used in Christian worship. It includes a survey of suggestions for avoiding gendered language for God and/or avoiding an over-reliance on male imagery. It draws on linguistic theory as well as theological discussions of gender and the nature of God. Attention is also paid to language and imagery for Jesus and the Spirit. The chapter then surveys what various Anglican churches have said in theoretical discussions of this issue and in policy documents for liturgical revision. It includes examples of liturgical texts that model ways of using inclusive or expansive language for God.