Introduction

Abstract

The preacher lays claim to authority through his person and deeds, and through his words.³ Robert of Basevorn in his Forma praedicandi of ca. 1300 makes this clear:

Three things are necessary for the one exercising an act of preaching. The first is evidently purity of life […] The second need for one actually preaching is competent knowledge […] The third need is authority, with which the preacher is sent out by the Church.⁴

For every preacher should give a good example in his deeds, and good doctrine in his words, since if he lives well and preaches not, he is as exemplary as his silence is harmful […] For the preacher should be like a hook and a mirror to his flock so that they may read in the deeds of their leader as if in a book, and see in the mirror what they should do.

Thomas of Chobham, Summa de arte praedicandi¹

We need a mediator linked with us in our lowliness by reason of the mortal nature of his body, and yet able to render us truly divine assistance for our purification and liberation.

St Augustine of Hippo, De civitate Dei²