Memoir of the Rev. George Burder, author of “Village Sermons,” and Secretary of the London Missionar

This article reviews the memoir of Rev. George Burder. The memoir describes Burder’s early family life in London in the mid 18th century. After his mother’s death, he turns towards religion, learning Biblical languages. He enters the ministry when British churches are generally apathetic. His entrance to ministry was atypical, as it seems he was not approved or sanctioned until his ordination. He published a book for children. He moves from Lancashire to Lancaster, and, in 1781, Mr. Burder marries. His son asks Burder about becoming a minister as well, and Burder asks his son to defer judgment until he has more worldly experience. At Coventry, Burder loses his stepmother and father and three children. Following the death of the Secretary of the Missionary Society, Burder becomes evangelical. He makes a number of sermons for circulation and translation. The reviewer critiques Burder’s sermon style. Burder continues the missionary cause until shortly before his death. He suffers the deaths of many family members. The reviewer considers Burder’s temperament and judgment in relation to his preaching skill. He concludes that this is a very worthy read.