The church needs to embrace the pastoral gift/role of “spiritual writing” as enthusiastically it celebrates the gift of public speaking. … More Pastoral Letters in a Digital Age – Part 2
Instead of flinging a relatively impersonal sermon out over a nameless crowd each Sunday, a personal letter to the right person at the right time can fling a shepherd’s arms around wounded or wandering sheep, refreshing their soul. … More Pastoral Letters in a Digital Age – Part 1
Here’s another letter from Fenelon (1651-1715): Dear friend, I am happy to hear of your frame of mind, and to find you communicating in simplicity everything that takes place within you. Never hesitate to write me whatever you think God requires. It is not at all surprising that you have a sort of jealous ambition … More Spiritual Letters: Fenelon (Letter 7)
Here’s another letter from Fenelon (1651-1715) on “The Death to Self”: I cannot express to you, my dear sister, how deeply I sympathize with your afflictions; but my grief is not unmixed with consolation. God loves you, since He does not spare you, but lays upon you the cross of Jesus Christ. Whatever light, whatever … More Spiritual Letters: Fenelon (Letter 4)
“Sir, more than kisses, letters mingle souls. For, thus friends absent speak.” —John Donne As part of my doctoral thesis project at Northern Seminary I am exploring the role of letter writing in pastoral care and spiritual formation. In the ancient world, letter writing was a preeminent way pastors engaged personally with those under their spiritual … More Letters Mingle Souls
When I began a doctoral degree in New Testament context a couple years ago, I never would have guessed my thesis topic would end up focusing on the role of “Letter Writing” in spiritual formation. Well, here I am reading all kinds of ancient, medieval and contemporary letter correspondences, and really loving it! Along the way … More Letters to a Godson
“I rest only so long as I am writing to you or reading your letters.” —Cicero, To Atticus 9.4.1 “That which is sweetest when we meet face to face is afforded by the impress of a friend’s hand upon his letter – recognition.” —Seneca, Moral Letters 40.1 I am drawn by some invisible force to “look for … More Ancient Letters Speak Today
We’re celebrating that annual family tradition where I lie on the couch and watch cheesy Hallmark Christmas movies while Keri addresses and stamps Christmas cards to get in the mail. I’m embarrassed to admit how many of the Christmas letters people send never make it into my hands. (Keri reads them all and throws a … More Sermon: Paul’s Xmas Letter
Jeremy L. Berg 