Priest to the Temple, or, The Country Parson his Character and Rule of Holy Life

George Herbert was one of England’s more famous 17th century poets; like John Donne, his contemporary, he also served as an Anglican priest. Contemporary readers may recognize him as the author of the well-known poem, “Easter Wings.” A Priest to the Temple, on the other hand, is a prose discourse designed to offer practical advice to Anglican clergy. As well as covering such topics as prayer, preaching, and the administration of the sacraments, Herbert counsels his pastoral peers on everyday matters of household governance, dancing, food, and farming. In every area of his life, Herbert wrote, church leaders should “serve for lights even of Heavenly Truths.”

Kathleen O’Bannon
CCEL Staff