Preaching: The Art and the Craft. By Walter J. Burghardt, S.J. New York: Paulist Press, 1987. 250 images. Paper, $11.95.  

This volume is an effort “to recapture the charism that is preaching” and to stimulate preachers to rethink the basics of preaching (p. 2). The author, theologian in residence at Georgetown University, writes from almost half a century of preaching experience and from a desire to allow others the benefit of that experience.  

The thirteen chapters of the book include serious reflection on the task of retelling the word in human words, proposals for the use of imagination in preaching, discussion of the relationship between the ancient prophet and the modern preacher, and some new questions for consideration in the basic areas of homiletics.  

Burghardt departs from the usual pattern of preaching texts to weigh evaluations of his own method (chap. 5). He also poses some unsettling questions about preaching to the Jews (chap. 10). He includes a chapter on humor (chap. 11) and a probing chapter on the cost of preaching (chap. 12). He closes with a brief presentation of past and present pulpit masters whose skills influenced his pilgrimage. He expresses gratitude to the Protestant pulpit for giving him the personal experience of the word in “biblical preaching” (p. 207).  

This is a serious book which will be helpful for all who want to learn more about preaching, especially the renewal of preaching among Roman Catholics since Vatican II. Each chapter has a purpose, clearly stated and developed in an orderly manner. The volume is written in a very readable style. Burghardt’s recommitment to the basics of preaching serves as a timely reminder to all homilists.