In Longing to See Your Face, he makes his insights and experience accessible to a much wider audience. Scirghi begins with a discussion of the purpose of preaching and offers a theological sounding on proclamation, taking up several descriptions of the role of the preacher in relation to the congregation. He also addresses current theological issues for the contemporary preacher. The second part of the book discusses the practical matter of preparing to preach and proposes a method of preparation by following a pattern of reflection, research, writing, and rehearsing. The third part focuses on two specific sacramental celebrations: funeral and weddings.
"Tom Scirghi, SJ, writes in the language of a good preacher-direct, informative, clear, personal, and with an awareness of his audience. Longing to See Your Face addresses the theology, spirituality and practicalities of good preaching. While primarily addressed to the ordained preacher, this book will appeal to the increasing numbers of ecclesial lay ministers who preach outside the eucharistic a
Jude Siciliano, OP, is a preacher and instructor in homiletics
"At a time of declining church attendance, it is no secret that congregations remain full in parishes where the Word is preached with clarity, conviction, and truth to life. In this small book, Tom Scirghi draws richly upon the theological tradition, classic literature and contemporary culture, to achieve that end. Clearly the fruit of wide pastoral experience and pedagogical skill, a good half of
Brendan Byrne, SJ, FAHA, University of Divinity, Melbourne, Australia
"Longing to See Your Face is designed for today's preacher, ordained or lay, experienced or just beginning. I commend this work for its fresh theology of preaching and its clear and comprehensive method of preparation, writing, editing, embodiment, and performance. A fine addition to the preaching library."
Thomas A. Kane, CSP, Boston College School of Theology and Ministry
