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Phillips
Brooks (Jan 23rd), is best remembered today only as the author of "0 little
town of Bethlehem." But in his own day he was regarded as the greatest preacher
of the 19th century—in any denomination. That reputation has never been
challenged. Born in Boston in 1835, he began his ministry as an Episcopal priest
in Philadelphia. A very tall and large man, he matched his big presence with an
impressive personality. While Rector of Trinity Church, Copley Square, Boston,
the church burned and for the next four years the congregation worshipped in
temporary and bare surroundings while the massive new structure was being built.
It is telling of Brooks' preaching, character, and leadership that the
congregation grew and flourished despite being "homeless."
Brooks was
revered for his warm friendliness as well as for the tenderness and
understanding of his pastoral care. The same qualities applied to his preaching;
his sermons were powerful not for their force but for their naturalness: "There
was no sign of art about his preaching, no touch of self-consciousness," one
hearer wrote, concluding that his sermons were "the thoughts of his singularly
pure and lofty spirit." Although theologically conservative, his generosity of
heart led him to be regarded as the leader of the liberal circles of the Church!
He was elected Bishop of Massachusetts, but was able to serve in that capacity
for only two years, dying in 1893. Brooks' great-niece, Anne Brooks, lives in
Turwiler, MS, where she serves as a doctor for the poor of the Delta region. |
