Breathing Patterns

A Teacher's Reflections on Calling, Equipping, and Sending

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.