Abraham a Sancta-Clara

Abraham a Sancta-Clara, born Johann Ulrich Megerle, was a Roman Catholic preacher in the 17th century. Renowned for his impassioned and candid sermons, he utilized humor and satire to convey his messages, often addressing societal issues of his time. His works remain notable for their rhetorical flair and insight into the human condition.

July 2, 1644

December 1, 1709

German, Latin

St. Anthony's Sermon To The Fishes

Saint Anthony at church
Was left in the lurch,
So he went to the ditches
And preached to the fishes.
    They wriggled their tails,
    In the sun glanced their scales.

The carps, with their spawn,
Are all thither drawn;
Have opened their jaws,
Eager for each clause.
    No sermon beside
    Had the carps so edified.

Sharp-snouted pikes,
Who keep fighting like tikes,
Now swam up harmonious
To hear Saint Antonius.
    No sermon beside
    Had the pikes so edified.

And that very odd fish,
Who loves fast-days, the cod-fish,
The stock-fish, I mean,
At the sermon was seen.
    No sermon beside
    Had the cods so edified.

Good eels and sturgeon,
Which aldermen gorge on,
Went out of their way<...

Abraham a Sancta-Clara