BOOK CORNER

Something a little bit different for June, the clue is 'A Country Parson'. No, not the Book itself, but extracts, together with a collection of other writings of George Herbert. The Wisdom of George Herbert compiled by Nick Page.

This is a small, attractive hardback book decorated with floral borders. The sections are arranged under such headings as 'A Straight Line', 'Light at the Window', and 'The Final Welcome'. Within these sections are a selection of prose, from, for example, 'Outlandish Proverbs'. ('Where there is peace, God is') 'The Church Porch' ('Resort to sermons but to prayers most: Praying's the end of preaching') and 'The Elixir'. There are thirty pieces which form daily meditations for a month.

The Introduction gives some interesting background on George Herbert (1593-1633) himself. Herbert was born into an aristocratic family in Montgomery, Wales. He eventually answered the call and became parish priest of the parish of Fuggleton-cum-Bermerton, near Salisbury. It was during this time that he wrote the much loved 'The Country Parson' which sets out the duties and responsibilities of the parish priest.

I will finish with the meditation for Trinity Sunday: -

Lord, who has formed me out of mud
And has redeemed me through thy blood,
And sanctified me to do good;

Purge all my sins done heretofore:
For I confess my heavy score,
And I will strive to sin no more.

Enrich my heart, mouth, hands in me;
With faith, with hope, with charity;
That I may run, rise, rest with thee.

'The Wisdom of George Herbert' (Lion) ISBN 0 7459 4077 3 £3.99.

Lynn Winter

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