Richard Baxter

I have vague memories of Richard Baxter being mentioned in Pastoral Studies lectures when I was at Theological College. I remember being told that he went around to all his parishioners doing six visits in a day, as well as all the other things which a parish priest has to do. It looks, from the Reformed Pastor, that at least some of the time he had his parishioners come to him but, nevertheless, the attention which he paid to the spiritual well-being of his flock was impressive.
I am not threatening to personally visit our parish of 17,000 nor even to call everyone on the electoral role to discuss the state of their soul, but there is definitely something to be said for encouraging more holy conversation in our churches. People are often embarrassed or just do not have the vocabulary to express their thoughts, feelings and experience about and of God, let alone the opportunity - yet really, what should be more normal that for Christians to want to talk about Jesus and the things of faith.
I am aware of this aigue all the more acutely when someone does talk about their faith or God, because it is so refreshing for me. Perhaps I should instigate more of these sorts of conversations, perhaps all of us should.
I would not agree with Richard Baxter wholeheartedly on all matters but I think he does have a point when he wants to discover a continuity between public proclamation and private living and between depth of faith and understanding expressed by priest and people