Thomas G. Long. Alban Institute, 2001. 132 pp. $16.00. ISBN 1566992400. www.alban.org
If you are looking for a book to help your church move beyond the worship wars consider Thomas C. Long’s book. Long begins by identifying two forces at work in our worship struggles and their historic roots, characterized as the “Hippolytus Force” (rediscovering ancient worship practices) and the “Willow Creek Force” (being culturally relevant to the unchurched). In the following chapters Long examines the characteristics of congregations who have found a third way that seeks to harness the best of both forces. This is a book that’s easy to read, informative, and thought provoking; a great resource for churches who are struggling in the midst of these two forces.