American Society for Church Growth - Book Review
Reinventing Sunday: Breakthrough Ideas for Transforming Worship
There has been a wealth of material written on the subject of worship in recent years. This dramatic increase reflects a persistent interest across the church. Brad Berglund, writes from a background as a spiritual director and worship leader. His writing reflects this.
Following an introduction on preparation for worship, he breaks the book into four sections, based on Robert Webber's four-fold movement of the liturgy:
1) Gathering the people,
2) Service of the Word (Encountering),
3) Responding in gratitude, and
4) Going out to serve.
Each section includes the corresponding elements of worship. "Gathering" gives a historical primer on the elements of greeting, calling to worship, praise, congregational singing, and prayer. After each chapter, he provides a page or two of ideas and resources.
In the second section, "Encountering" (the Word), he does the same for the reading of Scripture and for preaching. In the third, "Responding," are the corresponding elements of communion, the offering, and baptism. The fourth, "Embracing" (sending), covers the benediction and the closing of the service. The closing section includes a sampling of brief worship aids. These include a short primer on key changes in singing, creating variety in worship, the seasons of the church year, services for the dedication of a home, for healing, and prayer in the style of the Taize community.
Not everyone will warm up to Berglund's creative ideas for worship. The book also leaves out as much as it includes as far as issues of worship go. Despite all this, his work is a neat little primer for the beginning pastor or layperson as well as a nice addition to the worship library of those who are more experienced. There is never enough encouragement for pastors and worship leaders to be stretched and to explore the depths of worship and liturgy.
Reviewed by Mark Van Valin, Senior Pastor of West Morris Street Free Methodist Church, Indianapolis, Indiana.
This review was originally published in Strategies for Today's Leader.