Earlier this month, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Provo celebrated its first Tolkien Eucharist, bringing the writings and imagination of J.R.R. Tolkien into conversation with Scripture and the Eucharistic liturgy.
Through music, readings, and prayer, the service explored Christian themes woven throughout Tolkien’s work, including hope in the face of darkness, the goodness of creation, courage, friendship, and the conviction that death and defeat do not have the final word.
For those who were unable to attend—or would like to experience the service again—a recording is now available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6KnMAYwMao
St. Mary’s plans to make the Tolkien Eucharist an annual tradition, celebrated each September 2, the anniversary of Tolkien’s death.