It is a widespread idea that the roots of the Christian sermon can be found in the Jewish derasha. But the story of the interrelation of the two homiletical traditions, Jewish and Christian, from New Testament times to the present day is still untold. Can homiletical encounters be registered? Is there a common homiletical history - not only in the modern era, but also in rabbinic times and in the Middle Ages? Which current developments affect Jewish and Christian preaching today, in the 21st century? And, most important, what consequences may result from this mutual perception of Jewish and Christian homiletics for homiletical research and the practice of preaching? This book offers the papers of the first international conference (Bamberg, Germany, 6th to 8th March 2007) which brought together Jewish and Christian scholars to discuss Jewish and Christian homiletics in their historical development and relationship and to sketch out common homiletical projects.

Both Judaism and Christianity have authorized clergy, charged with fulfilling a multitude of tasks in their respective communities. They teach, provide pastoral care, and preach. They lead worship, hold services and offer counseling regarding all aspects of life. They perform religious rites at the beginning and end of life as well as in-between. They make decisions regarding religious questions, serve as administrators, and possibly even mediate ?between heaven and earth . The concrete forms of realization and the functions of the office are not only defined through theological specification but are also subject to trends and influences. This in turn leads to constant change and adaptation."