Preaching to the choir is always complicated, but especially so when that choir happens to be a seminary community. In this collection of sermons, delivered in the chapel of the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary (PCUSA), Robert P. Hoch, Assistant Professor of Homiletics and Worship, weaves together life experiences, careful readings of the Scripture, and pastoral wisdom for the benefit of seminarians, pastors, and educators. Often poetic, Dr. Hoch's sermons are crafted so that they speak not only to the peculiar life of a seminary community, but more broadly to the larger life of the church. Beyond the sermons themselves, readers will hear Dr. Hoch's reflections on individual sermons, reflections that sometimes betray the sermon behind the sermon. Whether as a student, seasoned pastor, or officer in the church, readers will find in these pages a partner with whom they can share the journey of faith.Any one who cares about issues of ecclesial-missional vocation in the teaching and practice of preaching will find in Robert Hoch's Breathing Patterns challenge, encouragement, and wise counsel 'for the living of these days.' Here the church and the academy are made mutually critical partners in proclaiming Christ crucified, the running fire of glory beneath all the faults and foibles that plague their common life. And Hoch's preaching--local church sermons, divinity school chapel sermons, university occasional sermons--leap off the page and sing with tones of prophetic urgency, humor, pastoral care, and passionate goodwill. Hoch spares no one-least of all himself-the throes of divine judgment, but always he finds in that very judgment the mercy that quickens faith, hope, and love. Hoch's biblical exegesis and interpretation consistently are theologically scrupulous, careful, and precise; yet, at the same time, they often prove startling. Read this book and you may find yourself, as I did, laughing, weeping, gnashing your teeth, and crying 'Amen!' all at the same time.--Charles L. BartowPrinceton Theological SeminaryMore than a collection of good sermons, Robert Hoch's Breathing Patterns offers reflection that forms the soul. These evocative sermons and the reflections that accompany them usher us into that unique relationship between preacher and congregation, classroom and church, sanctuary and world, where the living word transforms individual and community; its impression is felt upon the soul as well the mind.--Beth Lindquist McCawUniversity of Dubuque Theological SeminaryRobert P. Hoch is the Assistant Professor of Homiletics and Worship at the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary.
