Oracles and Odysseys of the Clergy: Images of the Ministry in Western Literature

ORACLES AND ODYSSES OF THE CLERGYImages of the Ministry in Western LiteratureWhat should be the role of the pastor-teacher in the twenty-first century? Shepherd? Rancher? CEO? Impresario? Vigorous discussion and debate are in process right now. Beyond the Biblical documents themselves, history and literature can be helpful in our understanding of how ministry has been understood through the centuries and what it ought to be now. Both ministers and laypersons have a high stake in the wrestling going on in our time. Beginning with Chaucer's CANTERBURY TALES down to the most recent characterizations, Dr. Larsen depicts both positive and negative literary instances to make a contribution to our better understanding of the issues today.