"I always hoped that someone with sensitivy would re-work some of the finer older hymns which need a bit of burnishing, and am delighted to find that John Henson has done this so well. I look forward to using them."

Wide Awake Worship does for treasured hymns and hallowed prayers what Good as New has done for the New Testament.
It puts the bounce back into the poetry of our praise! It elevates our God-talk to the liberating normal! Lots of lovely turns of phrase: a blend of poignant and playful; all in simple, accessible language. A God-send for the worship-weary faithful.

God continues to be involved in this changing world, and our response of worship, and the words of hymns, need to develop to keep up. John sometimes takes an established hymn and uses the themes and tune to give familiarity, but uses fresh words to update the theology. He sometimes takes a hymn which has given a false impression for years, and writes new verses to reflect recent scholarship. Always they are about praising God in whom we have faith, in words that reflect the faith we have. ~ Revd. Simon Walkling M.A. (Cantab), Minister, St.David's Uniting Church, Pontypridd, Wales

There is something magical on every page: one of the most refreshing books I have come across in a long time. As a choir master I am always concerned that the words we sing are meaningful and reflect where we are at. Just as he did in Good As New John again brings a fresh understanding to familiar words, making us sit up and think about our relationship with God in a different way. So many books of prayers leave me cold; but these prayers are inspired. I have used them at my church and have found something real in the words that people connect with. ~ James Baker,Church organist and choir master St Martin's Parish Church Weston Super Mare England

Choice of hymns is a very personal thing. There is no pleasing everybody. John Henson here provides for those who love the old ones, but realise that the words need to be updated or sometimes revolutionized. The same goes for beautiful prayers from times past. John boldly goes where others fear to go, and whether you wish to go with him or not depends on how bold you are. I believe John has provided us with striking alternatives that we may come to know and love as we did the originals. ~ Beverley Humphreys, International opera singer, B.B.C. broadcaster, High Sheriff of Mid Glamorgan, Wales, and lay preacher

Living our ancient Christian liturgies and sacred texts within a postmodern context is a joyous but at times difficult task. This is now made easier with Wide Awake Worship. Here is finally a resource which honors tradition enough to bring it faithfully into the present. ~ Revd. Nadia Bolz-Weber., Founder pastor of House for all Sinners and Saints, Denver Colorado, USA; author of Salvation on the Small Screen? houseforall.org

Music is something that can bond or divide a congregation in a heartbeat. John Henson's words and suggestions offer great wisdom for any congregation, music or parish minister. John brings a new paradigm to worship and the rich hymnal tradition, blending old time with cutting edge, something for everyone. ~ Rev Susan Sparks,Pastor Madison Avenue Baptist Church New York, author, of Laugh Your Way to Grace