"Love at its Best When Church is a Mess is a book that is needed for the messy times that the church finds itself in today. Through conceptual analysis, warm stories, scriptural references, and personal questions, Patrick Allen leads the reader through a discovery of oneself. First Corinthians 13 is used as a mirror to see more clearly and practice more faithfully the gracious gift of God's love."
--Stephen Green, W. N. King Chair of Theology, Southern Nazarene University
"I love the way my friend Patrick Allen so clearly describes how church is both beautiful and messy, just like life. In my fourth decade of pastoral ministry I've seen lots of healthy and unhealthy behaviors played out in the faith community. I believe this book is helpful for those new to church, lifers in church, and those in between. Love, God's and ours, must remain central and Patrick shows us how to do it well."
--Paul Almquist, Senior Pastor, West Chehalem Friends Church, Newberg, Oregon
"With an engaging personal prose that perfectly balances seriousness and playfulness, Patrick Allen provides fresh insight on 1 Corinthians 13 and its charge for Christians today. This book is about the cultivation of virtue--the faith, hope, and love that define the journey from ourselves toward our home with God. Allen does not mince words or romanticize the journey; he is real and his authenticity is refreshing. Readers will treasure the wisdom in this book and discover the beauty that can emerge alongside our own restlessness and wandering."
--Josh R. Sweeden, Dean of the Faculty and Professor of Church and Society, Nazarene Theological Seminary
"Dr. Allen is amazing! This book has something for everyone seeking deeper discipleship. It's all there--wit, wisdom, and hope for the church in the twenty-first century. He brings Paul's message of love to life in such a powerful, hope-filled, practical way. This is good news for any age, but especially now as many grope for the essence of Christian community. I hope to apply this wisdom in my life and share it with my parish."
--Tony Griffin, Senior Pastor, First United Methodist Church, Russellville, Arkansas
"Ever witnessed a church divided, its members bickering, scheming, and taking up sides? What should be done? With keen insight, Patrick Allen unwraps the apostle Paul's gift to the church in times of crisis--1 Corinthians 13. Allen's work--refreshingly honest and exceedingly practical--invites the church, in the midst of its messy relational realities, into a more excellent way."
--David Alexander, former President, Northwest Nazarene University