In her book "Holy the Firm," Annie Dillard reflects on the nature of worship and prayer, suggesting that the structured elements of liturgy serve as a pathway for humans to communicate with the divine safely. She implies that these rituals are significant because they encapsulate profound expressions of faith that have stood the test of time. Essentially, they carry a weight of meaning that allows people to connect with God without fear of retribution or misunderstanding.

Dillard emphasizes that the words and phrases used in liturgical practices have been honed by generations, representing successful attempts to articulate the human experience in relation to the divine. By framing these set pieces in this way, she highlights their importance as a form of sacred communication that brings comfort and understanding in spiritual life. This perspective invites readers to consider the power and significance of the words we choose in our quest for connection with something greater than ourselves.