Messenger, sentinel, steward: these three words have been used to describe the work of a priest in the Church of England since Cranmer write the original ordination rite in 1550. Two more, servant and shepherd, were added in 1980. Taken together, these five metaphors provide a rich and resonant set of ideas through which to explore the nature of Christian ministry.

Based on addresses Bishop Stephen Cottrell has given to ordinands on the night before their ordination, this short lyrical book is both refreshing and challenging and is written for those considering ordination as well as those already in ministry.