Church and Life Information

Church and Life publishes poems, stories, book reviews and editorials which articulate these values. Grundtvig is known for his famous phrase: "Human first; then Christian. Our common humanity is the basis for freedom, equality and dignity. Christ is found in the living community rather than in any book. Personal freedom and community are of the highest value. Sermons and articles published in Church and Life reflect this tradition . Grundtvig wrote many beautiful hymns and songs. The phrase "a simple life, a merry heart" in our tagline comes from Grundtvig's "Simplicity of Life" as translated by S.D., Rodholm:Give me a simple life, a merry heart,And kings may keep their pomp and garments splendid;Let me in hut or mansion live the partOf one from worthy ancestors descended.With eye for things above as God ordained,Awake to greatness, goodness, truth and beauty,Yet knowing well the yearnings unattained,Thro' knowledge, great achievement, deeds and duty.But we may not expect the ripened fruitExcept through growth, the law of all creation;In spring we see the green and tender shootIn early summer like a revelation;A burst of glory, flowers bright unfold;Then through the sunny summer days appearingThe fruit matures for harvest: so the soulIs only step by step its harvest nearing.