ABSTRAC T DOCTOR JOHN SUTHERLAND BONNELL'S THEORY AND PRACTICE OF PREACHING by Gord on McKenzie Born near Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, a few miles from the site of Canada's Confederation of 1867, John Sutherland Bonnell rose to become one of America's most distinguished and renowned Twentieth century clergyman. It was the purpose of this study to (I) investigate those factors in the life of Bonnell which contributed to his ability as a public speaker; (2) investigate the philosophy and theology of Bonnell; (3) review his theories of pastoral and non-pastoral preaching; (it) examine the constituents of rhetoric according to Bonnell's theory and practice; (5) investigate the nature of his speaking as revealed through the detailed analysis of a sermon. c d istoi cors eltd to l 's .--The emphasis in the investigation in this phase of the study was the presentation from interviews of information pertinent to Bonnell as a speaker. Combining b“Graphical and historical factors, the reviewer has presented the events having the greatest bearing on Bonnell's develop- “nt and professional career in public speaking. Bonnell's philosophy and theologz.--While neither his PhilosOphy nor theology has been formalized, they can 1" automatically and coherently structured; and they are Gordon McKenzie found to be capable of application in everyday living. The practicality of the tenets is to be seen in Bonnell's desire for verification of all concepts. Within life's day-to-day experiences all of his phiIOSOphy and theology can be put into practice for life's inspirational enrichment. Insights Which are up-to-date are utilized as Bonnell strives to keep contemporary in all his thinking. Wflififlmw- Research for this phase focused upon thoughts expressed to this investigator by Bonnell. These comments came as advice to speakers, his general observations concerning his own public speaking experiences, and his observations of others engaged in public address. As this study reveals, Bonnell's concern with, and understanding of, public address covers snide range of speech theory. In this regard it is interest- ing to note that while Bonnell's career began when ”elocution" Was in vogue, his theories contain little that might be related to that phenomenon. Instead, Bonnell's rhetorical theory bears a striking resemblance to classical and contemporary rhetorical theory. Nature of his speak_i_ng.--Bonnell uses a basic pattern °f Introcluction-Body-Conclusion. In addition to the customary "“03 0f reasoned development of his materials, there are andences of more than ordinary uses of anaIOgies and illustra- ““3. together with extensive use of authority of self. Ethical. pathetic, and logical factors of invention are blended w ““1 an infectious desire to make plain the reasons for his Gordon McKenzie convictions. The most outstanding element of style is his skillful language manipulation which accurately portrays his personal ideas and feelings and, according to testimony of his parishioners, assists helpfully in communicating his message to his congregation. And while Bonnell's delivery is unostentatious, it nevertheless carries the message in a flexible blending of thought with voice and action designed to transmit to the audience appeals with forceful and persua- sive power. DOCTOR JOHN SUTHERLAND BONNELL'S THEORY AND PRACTICE OF PREACHING by Gordon M. McKenzie A THESIS Submitted to Michigan State University in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY Department of Speech 1970 COpyright by GORDON MOORE McKENZIE 1971 Accepted by the faculty of the Department of Speech, College of Communication Arts, Michigan State University, in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Doctor of PhilosOphy degree. n) 7 or J%;:An:Zijf:Zgégé;~c( ‘Director of Thesis Guidance Committees Kenneth G. Hance, Chairman Walter F. Johnson David C. Ralph Gordon L. Thomas ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Gratitude is expressed to the members of my Guidance Committee (Dr. Walter T. Johnson, College of Education; Dr. David C. Ralph, Department of Speech; Dr. Gordon L. Thomas, Department of Speech; and Dr. Kenneth G. Fiance, Department Of Speech, Chairman) for their guidance and counsel. In Particular, gratitude is expressed to Dr. Hance, who shared his interest and knowledge in a very personal way in super- Vising this project. Special recognition for inestimable service is directed to the author's wife, Lettice, whose immeasurable sacrifices, unending encouragement, and understanding made this endeavor possible. Also, a note of consideration must be included in behalf of the author's two children, Paul and Heather, who felt the loss of attention, companionship, and Paternal oomradery during the completion of this project. The J” and Satisfaction of this accomplishment would not have been realized without the unselfish cooperation of the author's family. In afldition, appreciation is expressed to the author's “the“ Mrs. Carrie McKenzie, whose thoughtful words of encouragement were always forthcoming. A note of ultimate re :- 3 01: lies in the mind of the author, whose father, “1‘- Russ “1 N. McKenzie, died a few months prior to the completion ii of this project. At times when the author in despondency felt completion to be impossible because of a series of surgeries, the author's late father urged him on. An educator who believed in ”pursuing to the end the knowledge that lies before us," the author's father will remain a steadfast pillar of strength in the memory of the author, whose physical afflictions caused him to be "down" during many weeks of this research effort. ' The author wishes to thank Dr. John Sutherland Bonnell, Dr. Bryant Kirkland, the staff, and the officers 01' The Fifth Avenue Church of New York, who opened their hearts to this undertaking. For rendering the assistance needed for the gathering of specific materials and infome- t10n. heartfelt appreciation is hereby given. Finally words of thanks must be given Mrs. Carl finely, the author's typist who labored endless hours, °h°°rfu11y and efficiently, in order that accurate work was available for every deadline. iii PREFACE To one born and bred in Canada, the year 1967 had Within it the quality of indelibility. For decades, Canadian sohoolteachers have been inculcating in their pupils' mind the date: July II 1262. Canada's 100th birthday. Although in my beginning school-day mind, this projected occasion of festivity was timewise much too far off ever to arrive, nevertheless, what was described as the great homecoming I always could visualize with exaggeration. In overtones 0f imagery we were told that although scores of hundreds had migrated to foreign lands, "true” Canadians would be return- ing in 1967 to pay homage to their native land. As a Canadian schoolboy I was well aware of many who had left Canada to become intricately involved in American public life. Often mentioned among my circle of friends was the name of Reverend Dr. John Sutherland Bonnell, who at his New York Church provided the ”home away from home" for all born under the Union Jack.1 Ac(301'ding to the value system prevailing in my early env inmate he appeared to possess everything a person of —__ Histora, 1G°°r80 T. Peck, 3 Noble Landmark of New York: 1 c Ount 0f . 8 smmnm u ch, '0 31" an vees ress, ' .0, p. H: Quite hs. few Britons, when they came to New h Fifth Avenue Church eoause a0? eggnglogeetiesb between our Church “at the United Kingdom. . iv fame ought to possess. A haritimer, with deep, proud Scotch-Presbyterian roots, his good fortune included his birthplace, which is just a few miles from the historic seat of Confederation. To the patriotic delight of ”old-line“ Canadians, each Summer, without fail, he with his family, have returned to this area of Prince Edward Island where he maintains his summer residence. Likewise, much to the delight of Canadians, he did not forsake Canada when his active preaching days ended at Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church in 1962. He strengthened his Canadian ties by becoming active in the educational institutions of his native province. As the first Protestant ever to receive the honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from St. Dunstans, this Roman Catholic Seminary on Prince Edward Island bestowed upon him this unique honor. The following "31‘ (1961!) he headed the Royal Commission on Higher Educa- tion for the island province. Last year he became a Governor of the newly-created University of Prince Edward Island. When I began considering a study of this famous Preacher I was conscious of a sentimental affinity with Dr. Bonnell. while we are of a different generation, both of us were born in Canada with the same ancestry which based itself in the Maritime provinces. There, where Scotch settle- “m‘ “Mum. an outlook on life established itself fimly enough to bear the use emphasis through many generations. The mm“ of Dr. Bonnell's boyhood home was duplicated in min , e he “hilarity of age between Dr. Donnell and my father V allowed a late 19th century viewpoint which is unmistakably the same. Added to this, both of us had the privilege of sitting under the same two distinguished Canadian theological professors, the late Dr. H. A. Kent and the late Dr. James A. anew. Besides these coincidences, our paths crossed many times spiritually, if not often materially. While I was a student at Queen's University, I first met Dr. Bonnell, who at that time was the Chancellor's lecturer. Following this I attended Seminary with a friend who was later to become Dr. Bonnell's son-in-law. Before and after this time I studied 3t the Toronto Conservatory of Music, where his daughter, Elizabeth Louise, was also a student. And more recently there was a geographic nearness in that living nine miles from our home in Oakland, California, was Dr. Bonnell‘s daughter, Catherine Cameron, the wife of Dr. Robert J. Arnott, at that time President of Berkeley Baptist Divinity School. As significant as the above are, these do not com- Prise the manor influences that directed me to Dr. John mthu‘lfind Bonnell as “the man to be explored.“ I prefer t° think that my reasons for choosing him (although equally ”awn“ teat upon foundations more substantial in their "m“ “980 are related to my response to the series of historic eVents which spilled their way into my life from the time I was a child in the second grade. From this, a 1mm" 1“filing-tone was established. Within it was the uneas 1"“ Of wondering ”why". Because the tapics of vi conversation in our home included the tragedy and calamity of the international scene, there was a continual desire to have things explained. Frequenting our radio with regularity were the speeches of Lloyd George, George the Fifth, Anthony Eden, Lord Baldwin, Herbert Hoover, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Hitler, and Mussolini. The on-going crises, of which these world-figures were a part, filled a big portion of my life as both a child and a teen-ager. From that day to this, interpretations in Christian concern seemed required in their own right. Consequently, at the outset of this project, which began in Canada‘s centennial year, it was with real 'ch that I observed that here was a man, Dr. John Sutherland Bonnell, who first aroused wide attention in this period which I call “my life." In these years which began in 1929, when forth- right answers were demanded, throngs of pecple were responding to his message. As attention on a continental scale was being Paid to him, his career began to blossom. In the ordeal of the depression, and the events which followed, he was being Prepared for the things to come. I noted that the formative years of his ministry (a period prior to the publication of his books) chronologically coincided with the formative years or my life. During that era, which forever will captivate my thought, the preparation for this monumental ministry in N“ York was achieved. _ These troubled times, which provided the backdrOp “1‘ the rise of Dr. Bonnell, still crowd my mind with a bombardment that brings unrest. As a result, I have sought vii answers to it all. With a zeal for a true quest, I have striven in this undertaking to gain understanding for what happened and the manner in which this message was given. However, up to now, no exercise of thought has enabled me to erase the recollections. In retrospect it seems as though each single crisis reached out and touched my life. The memory remains. The Stock Market Crash came when I was seven years old. Living in a Georgian Bay community which depended upon lumber and shipping, I remember the ensuing unemployment which was predicted by our neighbor, a local banker, when he visited our home on the night of the disaster, Oct. 29. 1929. That was the prelude to the day-by-day reality that haunts me even today, namely: the sight of children in the halls of the elementary school, receiving daily their free breakfast, a gift of the Board of Education. According to James Gray's W} one-third of all winnipeg (where Dr. Bonnell was preaching) was on relief. During this time, my father, a school teacher, did nOt want to be a spectator to disaster. Along with our ulinister, he became an enthusiast of the League of Nations and its ”grass roots Operations“. Because of our home's cOncern for League action, Japan's invasion of Manchuria 1“mains in my mind, a vivid recollection of 1931. Two years later, (the day prior to my 11th birthday), Hitler became Chancellor of Germany. The idea of support from men such as uinstcn Churchill and John Foster Dulles was an abomination *- __ 1m“ Gray. W. Toronto: Lonsmans Gr°°n9 Ltd., 1967’ p. 0 viii ll to my father. Yet there were preachers with apparently similar motivation, who believed Hitler to be a passing mania. Perhaps more accurately they did not want atheistic communism and therefore chose what they believed to be the lesser of two evils. In our home there was an idealism which purported to believe that there was a third way. As suggested earlier, when I entered upon this study, I was intensely curious about the manner in which Dr. Bonnell had handled these problems, which had been so much a part of my formative years. Did he prOpose a way that led to the left or the right? Did he prOpose a third way? or was there a third way? Certainly these were the days when preachers generally tended to lean towards a social gospel. Reflecting this influence, our home was filled with discussions on the ominous developments in EurOpe and the Far East. Even when Germany and Japan withdrew from the League of Nations in 1933, my father still held Optimism for the League's value 130 mankind. Mussolini's invasion of EthiOpia and Hitler's announcement that Germany would no longer consider itself bOund by the military clauses of the Versailles Treaty aroused expressions of moral indignation, and brought meetings for community discussion groups into our home. The prOphecy of Hallo Selassie at the League of Nations, (“If the League fails to support EthiOpia, the collapse of EurOpe is inevit- ab1°") was the subject for more than one sermon in our Church. With these front-page happenings, discussion of Christian themes was interwoven into my life. Quickly it ix was evident to me that many pecple considered that with each event, more than two choices were available. However, as I recall it, in the Spanish Civil War, there appeared to be ingredients limiting the number of choices. The alternatives seemed to be bound within the dichotomy of fascism on the one hand and communism on the other. For me, this study has Opened many avenues of insight, and not the least centering about myself. In an overview, Dr. Bonnell's message appears to be a series of correctives made attractive for a day that is now past. From some points of view these directives are no longer needed. Eyes now are turned upon the undercurrents and motivations that have produced the Peace Corps, Vista, boards and committees for conciliation, peace movements, demonstrations, all of which are foreign to the major emphasis of this lengthy and success- ful mini stry. In various ways, this success reveals an astuteness Which is less worthy than what some in the Church would like it to be. On the other hand, it bears the conviction of many; a preacher to have success must possess a combination or native ability with a zeal that allows no time for selfish- n988. For this reason alone, I consider the study of value. TABLE OF CONTENTS ACKNOWLEDGMENTS. . . e . . . . PREFACE. O O O O 0 O O O O O 0 TABLE OF CONTENTS. 0 O O O O 0 Chapter I. II. III. INTRODUCTION. . e . . . John Sutherland Bonnell as a Subject for Study The Purpose of the Study Ldmitations of the Study Intrinsic Merit of the Study Distinctiveness of the Study Materials and Sources of the Study Organization of the Study BIWRAPHY O O O O O O O O O C O O O O I O O O 0 THE PHILOSOPHY AND THEOLOGY OF DR. BONNELL. . . PhilosOphy A.Preliminary Statement The Enduring Power of Early EXperience The Changing World The Medieval View Darwin' s The 81 3 Social Darwinism The Carry-Over of Chance The Influence of Freud The Unclassifiable Dr. Bonnell Theology The Spirit God: The Infinite Spirit God: The Omnipresent and Eternal The Doctrine of the Trinity The Visible Church The Sacraments The Next Life The Bible summary xi Page 11 iv xi (DO'inmmi-J H 10 Chapter Page IV. V. VI. VII. WHAT DR. BONNELL SAYS AND THINKS ABOUT SPEAKImeeeeeesesseeeeeeeesso99 Pastoral Preaching 99 Hon-Pastoral Preaching 123 INVENTIONeeeeeeeeeoeeeeeses.0136 PART I: Bonnell's Theories Regarding Invention 136 The Purpose of the Sermon or Address 138 The Tepics of the Sermon or Address 1 9 The Appeals 1 5 Summary 1&8 PART II: Bonnell's Practice Regarding Invention 1&9 Ethical Proof 150 Summary l6& Pathetic Proof 165 Conclusions 201 Logical Proof 202 Summary 223 AmmmENT. O O O O I O O O O O O O O O O O C O 225 PART I: Bonnell's Theories Regarding Arrange- ment . 225 Arrangement in General 225 The Parts of the Composition 230 Summary 23& PART II: Bonnell's Practice Regarding Arrange- ment 235 Arrangement in.General 236 The Introduction 238 The Body 2&7 The Conclusion 251 Summary 253 STYLEeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeeeees255 PART II Bonnell's Theories Regarding Style 255 The Nature and Importance of Style 255 The Relationship Between Oral and Written Style 258 The Qualities of Good Style 260 Summary 265 xii Chapter Page PART II: Bonnell's Practice Regarding Style 266 word Choice 267 Word Composition 272 Summary 291 VIII.Dmeeeeeeeeeeeeeoseeeee 293 PART I: Bonnell's Theories Regarding Delivery 293 Mental Attitudes in.Delivery 293 Types of Delivery 295 Practicing for Delivery 300 PART II: Bonnell's Practice Regarding Delivery 302 Method of Delivery 303 Visible Code 30& Audible Code 307 Over-All Picture 310 Ix. CASE STUDY: 'Tbtenty-Five Years in A Fifth Avenue Pulpit” . . . . . . 312 X. SIMMABIANDCONCUJSIONS ........... 3&1 BIBLImmreeeeeeeeeeeeeeeseeeee3’49 xiii CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION gem; atheglgnd Bonnell as a Subject for Study Of the quarter million clergymen in the United States of America, few have enjoyed the distinction and success of Dr. John Sutherland Bonnell. Although his formal education came to an end with one year of independent graduate study in England, by innumerable invitations, he has attained access both to the great citadels of learning and to the most influential churches throughout the world. A native of the Canadian province of Prince Edward Island, Bonnell grew to manhood during a period of conservative Stability in Canadian life. Although his college career was Interrupted by military service overseas in the Canadian army, he earned the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Divinity d08rees following World War I. Prior to his call to The Fifth Avenue Presbyterian cl'iurch of New York, ’Bonnell's recognition had been gained “inly by skillful preaching in three Canadian pastorates. Up to this time he had written nothing more than a few mmPhlets on church-related matters. However, within a year Of his arrival in the New York pulpit he began publishing 1 2 at a quick pace: one book every three years, and an article for a magazine or periodical every eight months. Also, shortly after his arrival in the New York pulpit he began a radio ministry which carried his voice into thousands of homes across the United States and Canada. On these broadcasts he related the insights of religious counseling with the fundamentals of ”the Biblical faith." In keeping with his basic convictions, he has remained through- out his lifetime a spokesman for humane causes, especially those related to treatment of the mentally ill. W The author of this study, as a minister with seven- teen years of experience in the pulpit and four years in the classroom, has become increasingly motivated to examine in depth the preaching of Dr. John Sutherland Bonnell. The desire has been to discover the most likely factors which combined to produce Bonnell's phenomenal rise to ministerial Prominence and effectiveness and, at the same time, to orplore t’ol'le extent and nature of his ideas concerning the art of Preaching and speaking. The emphasis in this study is upon Bonnell's verbal n"edges-wand to a lesser degree on the related extrinsic 3"Poets of the situation--the speaker, the audience, and the Occasion. While rhetorical elements of invention, arrangement, Ityle, and delivery are analyzed, factors associated with the . “he Kent- )0? I l.' u '1‘ ) ’D-n : ,4 N Orv Pr . .I 1 It... a "H I a. \e 3 rhetorical constituents of memory are not explicitly studied. Early investigation of Bonnell's method of sermon delivery showed that his printed sermons and addresses provided an incomplete record of what he actually said. This fact led this reviewer to seek from Bonnell (and many of his church members) a report of the rhetorical factors involved in his preaching. Consequently, that part of the study which pertains to the verbal message pg; 33 is based upon the best evidence available: the published texts. Like Daniel Webster, who took considerable time to revise his speech texts for publication, John Sutherland Bonnell states that in a number of instances his sermons and addresses have gone through much editing prior to publication. Therefore, what is analyzed is not necessarily the message precisely as preached and received in the oral situation, at least with respect to language. It is, however, the best that is at hand. Included in this study, as previously suggested, is an exploration of his theories of public speaking which Bonnell expressed to this investigator which, when reviewed, provide an analysis in depth of Bonnell's rhetorical theory and practice. Thus, this study attempts to describe and analyze the theories and practices of speaking of John Sutherland Bonnell. L tion 0 h Stud Because the most noteworthy portion of Bonnell's career came after he arrived in New York and continued up to l: the time of his installation as President of New York Theological Seminary, time limitations are imposed on the study by the period 1935-1968. No speaking or writing prior to 1935 and nothing following 1968 is considered. Further, this study is limited in scOpe in order to focus only upon tepics associated with preaching pg; g3. None of his public addresses on subjects such as church management and administra- tion, national church organization, and international religious develOpment are considered. And although Bonnell has conducted campaigns, preaching ministries, and counseling ministries on five continents,--Africa, Asia, Australia, EurOpe and America,--no consideration is given to the subject's public address outside the continental boundaries of the United States of America. Finally, no explicit consideration is given to those theological doctrines or sermon tapics which were not em- phasized by Bonnell. Rather, the focus is upon "what Bonnell believes" and upon ”the subjects upon which Bonnell preaches.” W The study of the preaching and public Speaking of a contemporary minister such as John Sutherland Bonnell has intrinsic merit. Similarly, it can be assumed that his church, The Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church of New York, is am.important institution in the current life of American “M 5 religious thought. The minister of this influential church with its national importance, especially when this ministry exceeded a quarter Of a century, merits extensive study. His use Of persuasive public address and his effective practice of rhetoric have been demonstrated significantly in the pul- pit, on national radio, and through international publication. Moreover, as an individual minister and public figure, John Sutherland Bonnell reinforces the merit in studying his public address by the reputation which he has developed not only in religious circles but also within the vast area Of clinical psychology and personal counseling. The fact that in has attempted to meet the changing ideas of his age and umke his ministry relevant and also has attained a reputation in widened circles Of American life grants a unique Opportunity for the critic who has both lived them and Observed them. D sti t ve ss O th tud Since this study contains no duplication Of other research, it is thus distinctive. It is the first attempt tn study John Sutherland Bonnell as a speaker and methodologist. Midoctoral dissertation on Bonnell prior to this one has then written: and while a Master's thesis was begun, it was never completed. At the present time there is neither a book nor a Section of a book which gives special consideration to Bonnell's Public speaking career or his contribution to rhetoric. A .1. I' q- .\1 IV 6 Bonnell declares that while he has another book underway, it contains so little autobiOgraphical material that it can hardly be called ”personal history.“ M ls d ur s of the Stud Primary sources included personal correspondence with Bonnell, telephone conversations, personal interviews, his pminted sermons and addresses, and periodical and magazine articles. In addition, the staff Of The Fifth Avenue Euesbyterian Church of New York, 1ncluding Dr. Bonnell's successor, Dr. Bryant M. Kirkland, the present minister, made available abundant materials and sources related to Bonnell's speaking and writing. The researcher spent the period of October 20 through thober 28, 1966 in Dr. Bonnell's Office at New York Theological Seminary and in the Office Of The Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church of New York. Interviews with several of Bonnell's associates, church officers, and members were freely granted. The writer's own background and interests also contributed knowledge and insight to the study of John 31therland Bonnell, thus supplementing the more common and traditional sources and materials. Being a Canadian, the ”Tuter was aware from his own teenage life that his family's circle of friends Often mentioned the name of Reverend John 8utherland Bonnell, who at his New York church provided the 7 ”home away from home“ for many Canadians visiting or living in New York.1 Added to this affinity is the fact that both Bonnell and the writer had the privilege Of sitting under the same two distinguished Canadian theolOgical professors, the late Dr. H. A. Kent and the late Dr. James A. Shaw. Besides these coincidences, the paths of Dr. Bonnell and the writer crossed many times. The writer, while a student at Queen's University, first met Dr. Bonnell when he was the Chancellor's lecturer. Following this, the writer attended Seminary with a fellow- student who later became Dr. Bonnell's son-in-law. Before and after this, the writer studied at the Toronto Conservatory of Music, where Bonnell's daughter, Elizabeth Louise, was also a student. And more recently there was a geographic nearness in that living nine miles from the writer's home in Oakland, California, was Bonnell's Oldest daughter, Catherine Cameron, the wife Of Dr. Robert J. Arnott, the President Of Berkeley Baptist Divinity School. Thus, for over a quarter century, this reviewer has had the distinct privilege of knowing personally Dr. Bonnell and many Of his family, associates, and friends from whom much valuable information was received for this study. k 1George T. Peck, ‘ Noble : m: k . ew ork: H ; -_ oak :.~s0.4 O h- 7- th ;,V nu- P 681:6 : 011,», New York: Van Rees Press, 9.0, p. 00. “Quite a few Britons, when they came to New York, have joined The Fifth Avenue Church, because of the close ties between our church and the United Kingdom. . .' 8 Omanizagion o; the sgudy Since several books and national magazines at dif- ferent times have reported extensively on Bonnell's life, the second chapter, which is Biography, is limited mainly tO those factors of his life which provide insights into his life as a preacher and foremost public speaker. It emphasizes those environmental factors which shaped his life for the ministry and his accomplishments in his chosen field Of endeavor. The third chapter provides a background to his philosophy and theology. The fourth chapter allows the reader to gain insight into Bonnell's thought concerning both pastoral and non-pastoral preaching. The fifth chapter contains materials on Bonnell's theory and practice of Invention. The sixth chapter maintains this division of theory and practice in regard to Arrangement. Similarly the seventh chapter separates Bonnell's theory and practice in regard to Style. Chapter VII is an outline Of Bonnell's theory and Practice of Delivery. Chapter VIII offers a detailed rhetorical description, analysis, and evaluation in Case Study form of Bonnell's twenty-fifth anniversary semon, Ontitled, 'Twonty-Five Years In A Fifth Avenue Pulpit.“ Within this Case Study there is also an abstract Of this historic sermon. Chapter IX provides the summaries and conclusions growing out of the study. It provides the essence Of this I'm 9 reviewer's rhetorical-homiletic analysis Of Bonnell's New York preaching. Drawing together the results of the investiga- tion, the reviewer attempts to account for the preaching fame of this Canadian-born preacher who for over a quarter Of a century occupied the pulpit Of this well-known Presbyterian church in midtown.Manhattan. \ I ‘Q I.) CHAPTER II A RHETORICAL BIOGRAPHY OF BONNELL Dr. John Sutherland Bonnell, President Of New York Theological Seminary, is Pastor Emeritus of The Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church (at 55th Street) in New York City. or the many distinctions which he earned during his twenty-six and a half years as Pastor Of the New York church, the one he values most is the honor Of having attained the second longest pastorate in the history Of the church.1 A man Of commanding appearance,2 he was born at Dover, (near Charlottetown), Prince Edward Island, January 10, 1893. His father, Abraham Bonnell (with but an 8th grade education), was for &6 years, a staff member and later Super- visor of the Falconwood Hospital, an institution for the lIn the 159-year history of The Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church there have been only 1& ministers. This is something Of a record in that most churches cannot record pastorates that have lasted an average Of over 11 years for each minister. The minister who served the church with the longest pastorate was Dr. John Hall, 1867-1898. It was dur- ing Dr. Hall's ministry that the congregation in April, 1872, purchased for $350,000 the prOperty at 55th Street and Fifth Avenue where the present church now stands. Following the final service in the old structure on May 2, 1875, the congrega- tion moved to its present building for its first gathering, a Saturday evening prayer meeting held On May 8, 1875. ZNaw York Times, Nov. 1&, 1960, "Dr. Bonnell commands dignity more from his height (six feet three inches) and mien than from his age, for his speech and stride carry a youthful vigor that today shows no sign Of abating.” 10 ._~‘ -._. a.” ‘4. a - n ‘p I ll mentally ill. Bonnell's mother, (Catherine Cameron) was a woman of strong moral principles and interests. He reports that throughout his life, she was a "voice Of conscience" which exerted an important influence upon him. This factor complemented his father's guidance, which arose out Of his Falconwood's OXperiences, in the area Of adjustment to various persons and personalities. Dr. Bonnell states that he had a ”magnificent rela- tionship” with his father. From the age Of 10 years, John accompanied his father on the daily rounds through the institu- tdon and thus, while still a boy, came to recognize the various types of mental illness. My father was a kindly, patient, wise man. He had a strong faith and belief in the effectiveness Of religion in mental cases. He had had no Opportunity in his life to have formal instruction in psychiatry. But he had read widely in the field and was thoroughly conversant with the various aspects Of the discipline. He looked On all the patients as his children. He was always considerate and courteous with them all. He had a sane respect for the insane. In the summer Of 1910, John joined the mental hospital fluff, where he served for three years as an attendant.2 He became, in his own words, a "high school drOpout." While on ‘— 1Statement by Bonnell in Interview with the writer october 2&, 1966. This interview, which was One of six con- ducted during the period October 21-27, 1966, was held in $515 Bonnell's Office in New York TheOlOgical Seminary. 2John Sutherland Bonnell, "Onset Of Mental Illness,” L’astoral zayaholoay, November, 1950, p. &1 and "Jesus and IDemon Possession, Theology Today, July, 1956, p. 211. .n 12 the staff he attended all the lectures on psychology and psychiatry given to the nurses, and he liked to think Of himself as a “psychiatric nurse." Working most days from 6:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m., seven days a week, he gained insights which gave him the two driving forces in his ministry: 1. A larger concept Of God should be presented. 2. 'An emphasis should be made upon the inner spiritual resources that will keep us brave and steadfast through times “heavy with conflict and darkened by fears.“ Soon after joining the hospital staff, John Bonnell was assigned the care Of a former lawyer named Broadlawn. Although the psychiatrists had pronounced Broadlawn a paranoic, he was a brilliant scholar. John's departure from school brought unrest to Broadlawn, who wanted to see John in a Profession which he said "is worthy Of your mind." Knowing that John did not want to return to High School and be far behind his former classmates who had advanced to upper grades, he said: “John, I can prepare you for college, and you will net have to return to high school."1 From that point on, almost daily for two and a half years, Broadlawn tutored John, mainly in Algebra, Geometry, and Greek. Quarrelsome and suspicious of others, Broadlawn has, however, calm and intelligent when he was teaching his Pupil-nurse. Bonnell says: ¥ 1Interview, October 23, 1966. .t1’ ’4' 13 He still carried on his occasional sit-down strikes and other vagaries, but I think I was resourceful in dealing with him. We became fast friends. He was the first per- son tO advise me to enter the ministry. He used to repeat again and again: ”If you can combine the knowledge you are gaining here (at Falconwood) with the power of reli- gion to stabilize minds, you will blaze new trails. I! Although Bonnell believes that this was his first consideration Of the ministry as a vocation in life, his early life seems also to have been bent towards the ministry. His ability to read as a anall child was considered exceptional. hmen visitors came to the classroom, he invariably was the mudl called upon to read. Because Of his unusual memory, he was frequently called upon tO recite poetry before the student assembly. Bonnell now confesses that even in the sixth grade he used to sit daydreaming that he was standing before a huge congregation ”delivering great oratory." Over and over again intmose days he would read the story Of how Demosthenes overcame a speech defect and develOped his oratory by declaim- 1n3 to the waves as he stood alone on the beach. Another influence Of childhood that may have turned h“thoughts toward the ministry was his uncle, Donald Cameron. Cameron, his mother's brother, was the greatest hero Of BNuwll's youth. A star halfback on the Queen's University g 1Interview, October 23, 1966. These instances are described in some detail in §0nnell's book, Pastogal Psyhiatry, where in his chapter ihlApprenticeship to t e n stry,“ pp. 23-&7 he describes these incidents. lb rugby team at Kingston, Ontario, Cameron each year won the all-around athletic championship. Donald Cameron was destined for the ministry but died suddenly of a heart attack in the year Of his graduation. Bonnell says that to this day one Of his most prized possessions is a l&-inch high silver cup, awarded to Donald Cameron for the all-around athletic champion- Ship of Queen's University in the year 1890. Many recollections Of Donald Cameron fill Bonnell's mind, One Of the most vivid of which Occurred when he was eleven or twelve years Old. Bonnell tells it this way: On this occasion I arrived at home on the run from school. I flung myself into the living room. I stOpped short. A man was seated there talking to my mother. Mother said: ”Sid, I want you to meet the Reverend Sam McPheel He was a classmate Of your Uncle Donald's." Dr. Bonnell relates that for the next hour he listened iflth great interest to McPhee's stories concerning his uncle's aufletic prowess. Then with a note Of deeper seriousness hihis voice McPhee said: You know, your uncle was going to be a Presbyterian minister, but in the year of his graduation he took typhoid fever; and while he was convalescing, he died Of a heart attack. It is generally believed that his heart had been strained by his athletic exertions. Everyone who knew your uncle expected great things from him in the Christian ministry. 1Dr. Bonnell was known to his family affectionately 88 "Sid." 15 Following these words, McPhee immediately got up from his chair and walked over to where young John was sitting. As Dr. Bonnell relates the story: ”Laying both his hands on my head, in tones Of unforgettable solemnity he said: 'It is for you to take up your uncle's work where he laid it down." This incident left a lasting impression On the young lad's mind. ”I have always regarded it as my first 'Ordina- tion' to the Christian ministry," he said.1 Oftentimes during World War I when "we were in situations from which it looked as if none of us would emerge alive, there would come back to me with strange persistence the words Of the Reverend Mr. McPhee, my uncle's friend: 'It is for you to take up your uncle's work where he laid it down."'2 At the outbreak of the First World War, John Bonnell had already completed one year Of study at Dalhousie University 1n Halifax, Nova Scotia. In his Arts course he was taking subjects which would prepare him for entrance into seminary. One day in the Fall of 191& his friend from Falconwood, Broadlawn, knocked on his study door. Having escaped from the mental hospital in Prince Edward Island, Broadlawn sought the aid Of his former pupil in enlisting in the Canadian artillery. Believing that the lawyer had greatly improved _‘ 1Statement by Bonnell in Interview, October 2&, 1966. 21mg. 16 in mental health, John Bonnell helped him with his arrange- ments. Two years later, (1916) Bonnell himself, left college to enlist in the Amy and was sent to France in 1917 as a gunner in the Fifth Canadian Siege Battery. On the trOOp- ship sailing from Halifax that September, Bonnell, the young recruit met Broadlawn, now a sergeant. Ten months later while fighting in France, he learned that the friend whom he had helped to return to normal living had been killed in action. ‘ On the front line in France with heavy artillery, Bonnell became the senior sergeant Of his unit and was made acting sergeant major. Here he attempted to use some Of his experiences at Falconwood; but at the same time, he soon learned that leadership in the armed forces might require different approaches. For exwple, at Falconwood he had learned that men could Often be controlled by a superior's showing trust and gentleness towards them. However, at the front in 1917 when it became necessary to subdue men made Obstreperous by drinking, he was to learn the necessity on Occasion Of unbending firmness in dealing with those who rebel against authority. An incident concerning two new gun crews which had 00me up to his battery on the front serves as illustration. His corporal awakened Bonnell in the middle Of the night, aairing that an order had been received that the battery was to Open fire immediately. However, several men in both gun Crews were drunk. The new acting sergeant major, who had i" PC 1.1 I} L! [:5 ‘1'. 17 just been appointed, got dressed immediately and hurried to the center of the disturbance. He walked alone into the room full of potentially dangerous men. He shouted: ”Room, 'shun!“ Shakily the men responded. In nO uncertain terms Sergeant Bonnell told the men tO get out and sober up. When he explained to them in the morning the extent and seriousness of their misdemeanors and what he expected of them in his battery, the men came up afterwards individually and thanked him for not pressing court martial charges. Bonnell later observed: "It seems as though whenever I have been pushed into difficult places, good things have happened."1 The Canadian sergeant was wounded twice in action and invalided home in the summer Of 1918. Although not in good health for almost two years, he immediately resumed his studies and received his B.A. degree in 1919 from Dalhousie University. In the Fall Of 1919 he entered Pine Hill Divinity Hall. These were times Of discouragement for Bonnell. The war had been over not quite a year, and pain- ful wounds still came close to exhausting his energy. In moments of introspection he wondered about his ”call” to the ministry. He was bewildered in his religious thinking. Strangely enough, this bewilderment in his own ”call" t0 the ministry was resolved by a sermon delivered by the famous Dr. Henry Jowett, Minister of Fifth Avenue Presbyterian E 1Statement by Bonnell in Interview, October 2&, 1966. 21' I'ae 18 Church.1 Little did John Bonnell then realize that One day he himself would be called to serve the same church. A few months after this incident, John Sutherland Bonnell began preaching in a small rural church in Prince Edward Island. Later, in 1922, following his graduation with high honors and his ordination, he was called to his first city charge. Just 30 years Of age, he was named minister I 1At the very time when John Sutherland Bonnell, the first year 'theolog“, was wondering about his call to the ministry, Dr. Henry Jowett had decided to leave Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church and return tO Westminster Chapel in London, Emgland, where he had received a call from what is known as “the largest NOn~Conformist church in the capital." The call was reinforced by a cable from Prime Minister David Lloyd George, who urged that he was needed at home. (Dr. Jowett read these messages to a stunned overflow congregation at The Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church one Sunday morning.) Despite strong representations from President Wilson and Secretary Of State Lansing, who felt that Dr. Jowett's nunistry was an important factor in cementing good Anglo- American relations, Dr. Jowett decided to return to his beloved homeland, realizing that the demoralization following mathat conflict required the strongest Christian ministry. RgigJOWOtt’ however, remained in New York until the Fall Of The Cunard liner On which he was travelling back to England had to put into Halifax for coal because of a strike mathe New York piers. The Reverend Dr. Clarence McKinnOn, Principal Of Pine Hill, learning that the famous Dr. Henry Jowett was on board the liner in the harbor, put out to ship mmtdid his best to get Jowett tO come ashore and address the Opening convocation Of the seminary which was being held that night. In poor health, but learning that every member of the Emmuating class except one was a veteran of the World War, Ihu Jowett said he could not resist the appeal. The inepiring sermon that he preached that night settled the matter for John Sutherland Bonnell: I was a first year student in the Seminary. I decided then and there to put all I had into the ministry Of Jesus Christ, but not once did I ever dream that one day I wouldzbe one Of the successors to Dr. Henry Jowett. Bonnell states that this sermon Of Jowett was inspiring because at its tremendously positive emphases on the glory Of the Christian gospel. EStatement made by Bonnell in Interview, October 2&, 1966. 19 of the Mother Church Of Presbyterianism in New Brunswick, St. Andrew's Church in St. John. The Spiritual life Of the church and the weekly attendance were both at a low ebb. However, when he left, six years later, it was a weekly occurrence to have standing room only, especially at the evening services. In 1925 under his leadership the church voted to enter the newly-established United Church of Canada. During his pastorate in Saint John, the young minister declined calls to leading churches in Ottawa, Montreal, and Toronto. For his Obvious success in the ministry, Bonnell gives much of the credit to the fact that in June 1923, he was married to Bessie Louise Carruthers, daughter Of a well- known Canadian physician and surgeon. Mrs. Bonnell was a source Of strength from the beginning. A gracious and charm- ing hostess, actively assisting Dr. Bonnell in the necessities of parish life, she also has been a constant helper in all of his writing. The St. John pastorate was interrupted four years after his marriage by a year of study at the University of Iondon, England. This was made possible by Bonnell's winning cm the competitive George S. Campbell scholarship. The importance of this year of study can be seen in the wealth CW illustrations drawn from British history, learning, and literature which have been part Of Bonnell's sermons through the years. Bonnell was called to the Westminster United Church hiWinnipeg in 1929. During his ministry, attendance in the 20 western church increased to such a degree that a permanent extension Of loudspeakers was established in the lecture halls for overflow congregations. On special Occasions a theater across the street seating 800 persons was wired for the same purpose. Attendance at Holy Communion required special accommodation, and on One occasion the all-high record for the church--153O communicants--was set. Westminster Church had an especially large Sunday School, the enrollment of fine teachers and scholars aggregating 1110. Within one year after Bonnell's arrival in Winnipeg the Great Depression began, and scores Of churches found themselves in deep financial difficulty. Word of the success at Westminster United Church in Winnipeg travelled far and vude. Soon ministerial calls were arriving On Bonnell's desk with such rapidity that a form letter of refusal was used by his secretary in order to minimize the time required for a response. During this time, The Fifth Avenue Presbyterian erch of New York was suffering financially and otherwise. hihis historical account of this church, George T. Peck States: At the end Of l93&, the outlook was not bright. For two years the pulpit remained vacant following the cO-pastorate, and dur- ing this period the congregation suffered heavy losses in membership. A number Of ministers from various parts of the nation were heard but the committee charged with selecting a new pastor failed to reach an agreement until February 3, 1935, when Dr. John Sutherland Bonnell Of Winnipeg, Canada, ‘f 1‘“ 4'. .l the” 21 preached and shorfly thereafter received a unanimous call. Bonnell's decision to reSpOnd to the request of The Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church of New York came because ”I decided that I needed a broader base to marshal the resources and techniques Of religion and psychology to focus upon the various problems of the individual."2 Bonnell believed it was time for Protestantism "to see the discoveries of modern psychology as revelations of divine will and to construct new syntheses which would give fresh impetus not only to religious faith but also to scientific discovery."3 In his words, “The Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church of New York gave me that sounding board.” Thus, Bonnell accepted the call to this New York church, and On June 3, 1935 preached his first sermon as Minister, the position he held until January 30, 1962. During his entire ministry Dr. Bonnell has Offered his “counseling service“ to Christian pecple in need of Private confession and advice. He likes to remind his hearers that 1George T. Peck, 9 Noble gndmark of New Yogk, New York: Van Rees Press, 196 , p. . 2Interview, October 22, 1966. -1..- 22 the greater part Of Jesus' ministry was spent not in addressing the multitudes but in dealing with men and women one by one. This vital aspect of the Christian ministry, which fell into abeyance for some centuries, has now been revived and is available to you. This service came to be the distinguishing feature