Autobiography, Poems and Prayers

Excerpt from Autobiography, Poems and Prayers

The ministry of Theodore Parker formed a unique epoch in the annals of Boston and the history of the church, of marked significance and far-reaching influence, not only in this country, but extending to many foreign lands.

On the 21st of June, 1838, he was ordained as minister to the church in West Roxbury. This position was admirably suited to his condition and needs at that time. The congregation was small and the salary meager; but he was near the library of Harvard College and to the intellectual supplies of Boston. The surroundings were rural, and afforded him opportunity to enjoy his love of nature. He made friends of all his parishioners, most of whom were plain farmers, a few highly cultured, and was equally at home with them in their several interests. He was greatly beloved by them, and reciprocated their affection. In his quiet library he pursued his studies diligently all the week, sometimes sixteen hours a day for successive weeks. His Sunday services were a great pleasure to him, and most welcome to his hearers. Gradually he evolved his new views of religion, and gladly they took them in, and were not shocked thereat. Even the famous South Boston sermon on "The Transient and Permanent in Christianity," preached in 1841, did not abate their loyalty to him.

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