The Letters of St. Boniface

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Summary: Insights into the mind of an early missionary
Review: This book is a fascinating collection of personal letters to and from an 8th century English missionary turned bishop, working on the edge of pagan Germany, as he sought and received counsel from friends, popes, and bishops. Initially, his letters reflect a man seeking to know what the rule is, and expecting others to live by the rules. On a deeper level, the letters reflect Boniface's deep honesty, frustration, and dedication to his work in churches plagued by pagan and heretical influences. Weeks after I finished this book, individual incidents Boniface confronted came to mind. The letters inform about eighth century culture. They share the thoughts of a dedicated man trying to do the right thing in a difficult era.