Spiritual Life: The Foundation for Preaching and Teaching

A short but satisfying book, full of great insights for preaching and teaching. It is a treasure particulalry for those spiritually hungry and burnt-out.

Do not be fooled by its size - good things come in small packages. In a mere 78 pages of text, John Westerhoff creates a wonderful basis for reflection and meditation on the importance of spirituality in teaching and preaching. I read this book in connection with a course on Christian education, but one of the interesting parts of the idea of this book is that it transcends narrow confines often associated with 'Christian ed' or 'things the preacher does' - this book is indeed intended for preachers and teachers, but can be read with value by almost anyone. Westerhoff himself is someone who sees teaching as a vocation - not just a job, but rather a life calling, that involves the devotion of one's entire self to the matter for it to be successful. Success is not determined here in the sense of monetary reward as much as it is in a fulfillment of one's deepest needs and longings. One of the primary themes running through this brief text is the need for attentiveness and self-care, particularly in the realm of spiritual practices. Chapter six in particular develops this idea - entitled 'Developing a Spiritual Discipline', the chapter looks at various practices that can be of value to teachers, preachers, or indeed anyone seeking a more centered and fulfilling life, in tune with one's own spirituality and spiritual needs. Westerhoff uses the example of jogging - sometimes it can seem like a chore, particularly prior to starting, but through disciplined attention, the chore becomes more like a natural part of life, and even feels as if something is missing when it is not done. Westerhoff does not prescribe a particular pattern of spiritual practices, but rather describes many (journaling, presence, lectio divina, spiritual friends) that can be incorporated productively. He also discusses certain aspects that will make this spiritual pursuit more worthwhile (time, place, preparation, etc.). Preaching and teaching, according to Westerhoff, involve the imagination. Referencing Maria Harris' book, 'Teaching and the Religious Imagination', Westerhoff argues for a model of teaching that involves contemplation, engagement, a movement toward giving form or shape, emergence of something new, and finally, release. The process has definite advantages over the memorisation and rote recitation methods of many educational paradigms. While Westerhoff writes from a Christian perspective (he is an Episcopal priest), this book is not dogmatically Christian, or even particularly religious, focusing instead upon common features of spirituality, particularly as far as teaching is concerned. Westerhoff himself comes from a Reformed background (which, he states, taught him to 'long for an experience of God') but leans toward Orthodox and Catholic spiritual traditions in many ways. The one thing that would strengthen this powerful little text would be a formal 'recommended readings' list - Westerhoff mentions many titles into the text (Rahner's 'Prayers

John Westerhoff's book on spirituality for preachers and teachers can be read very slowly, a section at a time, and reflected upon. Westerhoof follows a classical approach to spirituality, but he is also able to relate the discipline whose ministry involves teaching and preaching. This is a small volume, but is very insightful. There might be a temptation to read it in one sitting, but that would impede the reader from savoring the insights obtained by reflection. Each chapter is broken down into sections and each section offers material for reflection and prayer.

John Westerhoff helps the reader return to the roots of all ministry, not only preaching and teaching. He boldly challenges the terms and practices of the church and ministry with a renewing spirit. He helps us explore our relationship with God and how we are actively living out that relationship with God and with each other. A joy.

Excellent illustrations to back up the "how-to" of developing a more effective spiritual life. Basics, according to author, are... 1. Embracing suffering 2. Silence and solitute 3. Attention to restlessness 4. Image of ChristEasy to read, but caused me to want to read and re-read.3.