September 21, 2011

Hints and helps in pastoral theology - Plumer - VIII - Chapter 12

Required reading
Hints and helps in pastoral theology by William S Plumer (Available from Amazon or free here) - Read Chapter 12 (Public worship - reading, singing, praying).

My summary
Now Plumer comments on reading, singing and praying in public worship.

Firstly Plumer teaches about the reading of God's word in public: 'In reading, the first requisite is to be distinctly heard ; the second is, to give the right emphasis, so as to give the true meaning ; and the third is, to impress the truth thus taught on the minds of those who hear.'

Secondly Plumer makes some comments on church music, including the remarks: 'Church music should be solemn and simple. It should be lively, but not frivolous. It should not be highly artistic, but easily learned and easily followed by all who have good cars for music.'

Thirdly Plumer gives a collection of rules and hints on praying in public that 'may enable us to escape some serious errors'.

What grabbed me
Today there were some helpful comments on singing, such as this one: 'Congregational singing is the point to be gained. Whatever hinders success in this is wrong and must be broken up.'

Great point that is often missed.

Next week's reading
Read Chapter
13 (Public worship - who shall attend?).

Now it's your turn
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.

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