Priest to the Temple, or, The Country Parson his Character and Rule of Holy Life

Priest to the Temple, or The Country Parson, His Character and Rule of Holy Life, was written by George Herbert as encouragement and a challenge to strive for excellence. Herbert had worked at the prestigious Cambridge University but gave it up to be the rector of a small country church. This work emphasizes prayer and preaching. As the shepherd of the flock, the pastor must be steeped in prayer, preach the good news, and practice what is preached. Herbert recognizes that to be effective, the parson must also build relationships with the members of his flock. Hebert draws on the rural setting around him to illustrate his teachings. This work was initially published in 1632.

Wailand Groenendyk
CCEL Staff Writer