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See exhortation in Communion Service. ‘We could wish to transplant ‘the Confessional,’—this mighty engine of power—most harmlessly and most beneficially into every Protestant Ministration. We would not have the Pastor stand upon ground too high for his people’s reach. We would guard the people against any degree of Popish superstition. But with a Scriptural measure of authority on one side, and reverence on the other (Heb. 13.17.) this mode of Ministry we conceive to be of the highest importance. In private conference alone will our people state their difficulties freely, open their trials, and ask for further information. Here we show them our true sympathy in their troubles, we can solve cases of conscience—we can give them individual directions for their personal and family duties. Here it is that we see the state of their minds—their degrees of knowledge and experience—any distinct indication of tenderness and awakening concern for their souls. Here also we learn how to preach with more distinct application—how to analyze character—to feel and to reach the heart—to touch the right chord—to be able to advise and reconcile differences. We are persuaded that this method of conference brings with it advantages of which it is hard to say whether they preponderate on the side of the Minister, or the people.’ Author’s Preface to the Life of Martin Boos, pp. 45. 46.