"Public religion," according to Martin E. Marty, one of America's most prolific commentators on religion in society, "can be dangerous; it should be handled with care." Far too often in the past 50 years, the politics of resentment has fueled the fundamentalist crusades of Christians, Jews, and Muslims leading to violence, polarization, and hatred. Whenever and wherever this has happened, believers have become more wary of the mix of religion and politics.

Marty and Moore believe that public religion can and does contribute to the common good. It provides public conversations with needed resources, helps illuminate the platforms of all conversational parties, gives a voice to the voiceless, combats apathy, and helps protect the individual in the world of politics.

The authors point out how in the past congregations, denominations, and ecumenical agencies provided a public voice for believers of all stripes. However, in the twenty-first century, religious people more often will channel their political energies into special-interest groups, voluntary associations, and parachurch organizations. This informative book is a forceful call and invitation for religious readers to join in the ongoing political conversation.