The Christian Century

A good preacher should be able to teach in a right and orderly way . . . be able to speak well . . . have a good memory . . . be sure of the material and be diligent . . . stake body and life, goods and honor on it . . . [and] know when to stop,” said Martin Luther.

When Carol Christ’s mother was dying, with her husband and daughter flanking the death bed, Christ felt a sensation she had never before experienced: the room was flooded with love.