We've Come This Far: Abyssinian Baptist Church

by Robert Gore

Book Overview

Pictorially chronicles the history of the Abyssinian Black Church in Harlem, examining the worship services, daily routines, and lives of the congregation from its beginning in the early nineteenth century to the present.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 158479027X
• ISBN13: 9781584790273
• Release Date: May 2001
• Publisher: Harry N. Abrams
• Length: 144 Pages
• Weight: 2.00 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 9.6" x 10.4"
• Age Range: 13 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 8 to Postsecondary

Customer Reviews

Absolutely Stunning Work

I've never been to New York, and I've never been to a black Baptist church. But the spirit of this institution- its leaders and worshippers- absolutely radiate off the pages of this book. It is unbelievably inspiring. It would make an excellent gift for any liberal Christian activist you know, for a pastor or clergy member working hard to integrate the church into the community, or for yourself. The text is also beautifully formatted, and the history and descriptions are very accessible. The primary focus is always on the black and white photos found on almost every page. Beautiful.

Superior Work

The rich and vibrant history of Abysinnian Church and the Harlem community is revealed in this work by Bob Gore. The photos are of such superior quality that you can feel the message conveyed in the picture without using the text. With the additon of text there is a wonderful account of the Harlem experience, chock full of information about the history and the individual personal expressions of those who were there when it happened. This photographic journal is vibrant and colorful in both word and image. There are real accounts of Abysinnian Baptist Church's history, including it's spiritual, political, social and economic relationships with the communities that it serves. I urge you to consider this book not just for reading but also as an important addition to your library.

Inspiration

I've been to Abyssinian only twice, but was almost overwhelmed each time with the power of commitment and community. Bob Gore's book captures with warmth and intimacy the spirit of this special place and its people. It is the only church I've been to where I felt that power of love which Christianity must have carried through the centuries.

Spirited Vision of the The Black Church in Harlem

This book is a true vision of the Spirited Black Harlem as seen through the eyes of an extremely Black talented artist. Mr. Gore is not only in the church but also as seen through his photos the spirit of the church lives within him. He has captured the essence that at one glance is revealed and transcended to you the viewer. These pictures draw the non-believers and those with the slightest doubt to the light of GOD'S true spirit. Words need not be written, since each picture tells a story.Welcome to the Black Church Experience.

We've Come This Far

This is truly a wonderful book. True, this is a "pictography" of the Abyssinian Baptist Church, however, even if one has never been there, the love and spirituality of the church and it's members and visitors leap from the pages in the fabulous photographs that Bob Gore has compiled. Within these pages is also a wonderful history of the church. I am biased, of couse, because I am a member of this amazing church with its spiritual leaders and its pastor, Rev. Calvin Butts who gives so much to the church and the Harlem community. However, if you don't even go to church, this book will show you what you are missing in a church family, the warmth, kindness, fellowship and love of God within it's walls. This book will encourage a person to seek out a church to be a part of. It will also make you want to visit Abyssinian as soon as you can!!! Great book, fabulous photographs, inspiring, uplifting, joyful. My heart is full of love for this church and the book is a Godsend, thank you Bob Gore!!!