Finally, the influence of African leadership and national politics is plainly visible in the evolution of Christian worship practices in these Covenant churches of Zaïre. It is difficult to discern the specific effects that might be attributed to the change to Zafrian leadership and the political upheaval because of their correspond- ing time frame. In fact, Mobutu's revolution accelerated internal African leadership of the churches and both influences encouraged more authentic expressions of worship in the form of songs, musi- cal instruments, and dance. The gradual multiplication of services, elaboration of rites, and change in the understanding of time in relationship to Christian worship, can be attributed both to African control and political upheaval, in that a more African understand- ing of celebration has come to function in the worship events. Worship in the Covenant churches of Zafre has changed dramatically in a sixty year period. Awareness of the influence of pre-existing worship practices, contact with other Christian com- munities, indigenous leadership, and political circumstances in various Christian contexts may help us all to better understand our bwn current theologies and rituals and sensitize us to the neces- sary, continuing evolution of humanity's efforts to celebrate Jesus. Michael S. Driscoll and Susan Guise Sheridan Every Knee Shall Bend: A BiocultuAal Reconstruction of Liturgical and Ascetical Prayer in V-VII Century Palestine A dilemma faces the church historian and liturgist when con- fronted with a period in church history for which documentary evidence is wanting. The following article attempts a solution to this problem and reflects the work of a team of researchers at the University of Notre Dame who in a collaborative fashion offer some Michael S. Driscoll teaches in the department of theology and Susan Guise Sheridan teaches in the department of anthropology, both at the University of Notre Dame. Every Knee Shall Bend 453