PRAISE AND WORSHIP WITH FLAGS

A primer on the spiritual side of flags.

Harris writes in a simple, straightforward style about her experience bringing song, dance and flags into communal and individual worship. She discusses the presence of flags in the Bible as a means of gathering people together, indicating allegiance and heralding events, with textual support from biblical quotes and linguistic examinations into the roots of words like “standard” and “banner.” Her use of flags is firmly situated in a severe view of prayer as spiritual warfare against evil, which can sometimes seem incongruous with her opinions of flags as tools and representations of love and healing. However, this belief is well supported and stirring, if potentially challenging to some who may see prayer and worship in a gentler light. Harris explains how to construct a flag—even suggesting colors and what they could represent—and provides a helpful chapter with explanations and diagrams of certain flag movements to help beginning flag-wavers get started. Besides these basics, Harris also brings in her own experiences with the Holy Spirit, which often seem to involve God taking things—be they steering wheels or flags—out of her hands. Physically losing control takes on spiritual meanings in light of the full-body worship style she describes. With that in mind, Harris provides a context for the use of flags in worship, which may be an unfamiliar practice to many readers. Chapters connect well to each other, though some rearranging would make the overall flow of the book more fluid. Nevertheless, Harris writes earnestly and unpretentiously from a place of deep faith and motivation. A list of references and a section for notes make the book a helpful jumping-off point for those looking to bring more movement and flair into their religion.

A sincere, practical guide for adding flags to faith.