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Soul Sanctuary
Images of the African American Worship Experience

by Jason Miccolo Johnson


O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our maker. -- Psalms 95, Verse 6, King James Bible.

      Throughout the pages of Soul Sanctuary: Images of the African American Worship Experience I was offered a rare glimpse into the black Christian Church. Each vibrant photo is a true work of art, for it depicts a very special moment in the lives of those who worship and praise the Lord Almighty. The pages seem to cry out the words "Rejoice and bow down to the Lord almighty for He alone is King." Each picture seems to possess its own set of individual characteristics. It is as though you are able to look into the eyes of the people and almost hear them relate their own stories. Through their photos you experience the joy and happiness that only comes when one is at peace with himself. The camera is simply a tool that is used to capture and freeze that moment in time to be shared and relived from generations to come.

Jason Miccolo Johnson's Soul Sanctuary: Images of the African American Worship Experience is a true labor of love. You can almost feel the author's passion at being able to capture these memorable moments and provide an up-close and personal look into a subject that is near and dear to his heart. One of the unique characteristics this book offers is how it took ten years to be created. Johnson traveled across the country to rural communities and city suburbs to visit hundreds of churches. Over fifteen thousand photos were taken of special church events that included baptisms, weddings, communions, and funerals. This book contains one hundred and sixty-five of these heart- warming events. Each one of the photos is a tribute to his endless patience and his skill as a photographer.

Soul Sanctuary: Images of the African American Worship Experience is a truly magnificent collection. You will find yourself getting caught up in the deeply moving expressions each page provides. The emotions you will see will be embedded on your mind's eye for many days to come. This book is an example of one that offers a true reflection of self-discovery.

The Book

Bulfinch
April 19, 2006
Hardcover
0821257900
Non-Fiction/Religion
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Excerpt
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The Reviewer

Suzie Housley
Reviewed 2006
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© 2006 MyShelf.com