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The predecessor of this book, now titled The Prayer Book Through the Ages, first saw the light of day in answer to a protest nearly two decades ago. The protester wanted a return to “the real Prayer Book services.” He meant the 1928 Book. The answer to him was The Story of the Real Prayer Book in which the eight revisions of the Book of Common Prayer since 1549 were described—why each revision was necessary, what was changed, added, omitted, but more importantly, what was always retained in the “new” book.

The Story of the Real Prayer Book was argumentative, intended to justify the appearance of the 1979 Book. This revised edition intends to take a more temperate view of the whole history of the Book of Common Prayer during its centuries of use.

The people who were my mainstays during the days when I was writing The Story of the Real Prayer Book included these gifted persons who were generous with their help and encouragement. This volume contains many of their insights.

The Rev. Marion J. Hatchett gave me advice, heartening support, and the invaluable use of his doctoral dissertation.

The Rev. Leo Malania, Co-ordinator of Prayer Book Revisions, was most generous in opening his files to me.

The Rev. Charles P. Price has helped more than he realizes with his shared insights from his wealth of liturgical knowledge.

Dr. Ralph C.M. Flynt kindly put his extensive collection of Prayer Books and related materials at my disposal.

The Rev. Reginald H. Fuller and Mrs. Joye Uzzell Pregnall both read the manuscript and made many valuable suggestions and gentle criticisms.

And, my wife, Caroline, made the writing easier because she knows the demand, the discipline, the exasperation, and the satisfaction which come from trying to capture one’s thoughts on paper.

William Sydnor

July 1, 1996