Conversations with Rev. Eugene H. Peterson
[1932 – 2018]
Pastoral care is difficult. It involves careful attention to both the Scriptures and the people we care for. But we don’t learn it alone; we need to cultivate the company of other pastors, living and departed.
In May 2015 the Fellows of our DOXOLOGY Collegium traveled to Kalispell, Montana to sit down with Rev. Eugene Peterson, noted pastoral theologian and author of more than 20 books on pastoral care, for a discussion on our favorite topic: the classic heritage of the cure of souls and its contemporary application.
We invite you to sit in on that lively conversation. Here you can access any one of the six segments in turn. Perhaps you can watch them together with a colleague or use this as a resource for your Winkel meetings. Each of the six videos has a short clip that introduces its subject matter.
Part 1: On Being a Pastor
With almost three decades of pastoral ministry and over thirty books on the ministry, Rev. Eugene Peterson offers his perspective on the unique work of a pastor, its challenges, and future.
Part 2: On Listening & Patience
Rev. Peterson believes it is essential that the pastor come to know his people. This comes by listening to them, being patient with them, and not presuming to know how the Spirit will work through you for them.
Part 3: On Preaching
Rev. Peterson offers wisdom on preparing to preach and how preaching teaches one how to read the Word.
Part 4: Poetry and the Psalms
Known as a skilled wordsmith, Rev. Peterson speaks about the use of language in preaching, the role of the imagination, and the power of words. He emphasizes learning from poets and the Psalms.
Part 5: Prayer & Sabbath for the Pastor’s Family
Using examples from his own life, Rev. Peterson shows how to be intentional in prayer for both the pastor and his family, with special emphasis on keeping a Sabbath.
Part 6: The Influence of His Writings
With over thirty books on pastoral vocation, the Scriptures, and personal devotion, Rev. Eugene Peterson body of work is well-regarded throughout the Christian Church. In this concluding segment, he reflects on how his work has been received as an encouragement for pastors.