Customer Reviews

We've Come This Far: Abyssinian Baptist Church

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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!!!

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.

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.

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.

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.

this book will move you. i have viewed many photo books and exhibits and have found many to be interesting and technically proficient. this book easily jumps those hurdles, but more importantly, the images on these pages reach out of their simple wood pulp shelter to touch your heart.

white, black, or blue; gospel lover or country western, you owe it to yourself to spend time with this group of deeply felt images.

buy two copies.

We've Come This Far is an insider's inside look at a pillar of African American Christianity, Abyssinian Baptist Church. Bob Gore's skill as a photographer and his commitment to his faith are evident on each page of this lovingly crafted work. In some cultures in the world, taking a photograph of a person is looked at with trepidation because it is believed to be an attempt to capture the subject's soul. And that's exactly what Mr. Gore has done in this book and there is no need for fear. The pictures and accompanying essays capture real life/real time moments in the broad scope of the life and spirit of this historic church.

I was fortunate enough to be present at Abyssinian Baptist for the signing of this book. As a "white girl from the suburbs," it was a gift to be part of such a vibrant community of faith. No matter your background, or religious tradition, you will appreicate the love and devotion that birthed this collection of photos of the life at Abyssinian. Reading this book, I became a part of the congregation, celebrating baptisms and grieving at funerals. Bob Gore has truly captured the Spirit of these people of God.

This book is a pictoral view of the black church--which happens to be the backbone of the African-American community. The pictures selected encompass the many facets of the church and our community. A great pick for members and friends of Abyssinian Baptist Church but equally good for church goers from all over.

This is a beautiful collection of photos that give a brief snapshot of the daily and Sunday events and people at the world famous church in Harlem, Abyssinian Baptist Church. Simple but elegant in their presentation, select photos depict the fiber that weaves together so many diverse lives. Turn the page, step through the shutter and enter the secular/religious world of believers!