Reviewed by Tom Gould

This book arrived with the one by Chris Bowater (reviewed above) and like that one, is a reprint of earlier published works, this time from 1982, and offering recently updated material. I think that many people who have read the sleeve notes of Free To Worship may have been slightly bemused at seeing a publication on worship written by an Anglican Bishop (as opposed to a 'known' worship leader), but those who put it down again should check their prejudices. I found this book both compelling reading and comprehensive in covering the subject of worship from a variety of angles, it is difficult to read Free To Worship without finding at least one revelation per chapter. As it may be seen by some as rather a cerebral approach to the subject (many will need to have a dictionary handy to fully appreciate it!), such a thoughtful and thought-provoking approach should not negate it from your reading list. If like myself you have been told by the Minister prior to leading worship to "whip up the congregation" ready for the Word (I felt really inadequate standing there with a guitar - if I had known that was required I would have brought an egg whisk!), this book, as well as Bowater's, is essential reading.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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