by Saint Gregory the Great
Published by St. Vladimir's Seminary Press in 2007 as part of the Popular Patristic Series
Summary: This is a translation of the book Gregory sent in 590 A.D. to John the Archbishop of Revenna. The book is divided into four parts following a letter of introduction. Part one reflects on the issue of the qualifications of someone entering a position of spiritual leadership. Part two reflects directly upon the life of the pastor. Part three advises the pastor on 72 different conditions that influence the state of one's soul and gives him specific instruction on how to minister in each situation. The fourth part is a brief admonition for the pastor to guard against pride, especially pride centered around his preaching. This book was perhaps the most influential set of instructions on pastoral care in the Church at the time of Gregory and it still has great insight to offer pastors today.
Review: Another author I was reading quoted this book numerous times and I liked one of the quotes from the book so I ordered it to read for myself. In my quiet time I like to read one modern Church author and one ancient to keep my perspective fresh and rooted. Gregory became my ancient for the past few months and the book has been a real jewel to read. The translation employs modern language that is easy to follow and the subject matter is just as pertinent to pastors today as it was 1500 years ago. It is nice to learn once again that there really is nothing new under the sun. The first two parts are especially poignant today. For one, we don't really like to talk about qualifications for the pastorate or standards to meet because that might "question their calling" and we don't want to do that; but Gregory had no qualms about setting standards and expectations as he realized how important it was to have qualified and appropriate people in the business of caring for souls. Part three can be a little laborious after a while, but it still gives some appropriate advice and it forces us to think about the forces in opposition that can both lead to the same destruction. Over all a book all pastors should read for both inspiration from an ancient leader and for practical reasons as it will offer some very practical advice for ministry.
Reading Recommendation: YES, especially for pastors. This book gives the lay person a chance to better understand the pastoral role and the pastor practical ministry advice.
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