Cheerful Words
FREE PHOSPHORUS IN MEDICINE. 153 5. , Vols.I. & II.-
-A Course of Sermons specially adapted for delivery before Inmates of Lunatic Asylums. By distinguished Divines. Edited by J. H. Hyslop, Esq., Church Stretton Private Asylum. London : Bailliere, Tindall, & Cox. This collection of sermons appears to us to be specially adapted for the purpose it is intended.
It is most difficult for clergymen who officiate at Asylums to preach sermons suitable to their afflicted hearers, and great judgment is required in the selection of the subject preached. Dr Browne has given the following judicious observations on the religious instruction of the insane: ” In the employment of such an agent (religion) great difficulties occur?so great, indeed, as to discourage the most zealous of its advocates. These consist in determining the modes in which the effect may be best obtained. If its doctrines are taught to weak or perverted intellects, they may add to the confusion already existing ; if its influences are brought prominently forward, they are apt to mingle with superstitious fears and delusions; if its duties alone are com- mented on, the doubting and ignorant may be left unsatisfied; if preaching is the vehicle, the attention may be fatigued and exhausted; if prayer, the sentiments may be strongly affected. These suppositions are all obviously founded upon the injudicious use of such an agent.”
A work of a similar nature to Cheerful Words has long been a desideratum in our Asylums. The subjects chosen for discoursing upon are most suitable for the occasion, and we most heartily recommend these sermons to be adopted at all Asylums and similar institutions.
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