More people seem to be getting into “pogonotrophy” (growing and styling facial hair). Though I am a long time fan of the beard, I am new to sporting one. Perhaps we are going to see another age of the beard. Not a year-long fad, but another era where men wear the masculine mark. Sure, we’ve been staring at the trimmed goatee and the soul-patch for quite some time, but there are some great options out there for those desiring to grow something more substantial. Most of the interesting examples I have found are from the 19th century, and this chart from 1884 is a good place to start. Click here for a larger version. Anyone growing one of these? What’s your favorite?

(Also see The Hierarchy of Beards)

I appreciate the encouragement about my beard. It’s fun. But it is not yet reaching anything near “epic” proportions. Not even at our church, since Brian Malcolm is way out in front (and that’s an old photo). With the encouragement I also hear a common lament, “I cannot grow a beard!” This is typically accompanied by the tearing of their robes. And when men like Ed Stetzer say they want to  grow a beard, I am compelled to help. So, I’ll let everyone in on on a little secret — The Beard Generator!

The Illustrated Police News, 1885 (via)

You know I love infographics, and this one, A Passion for Beards, is fun (via). If you missed the previous beard-related post, check out the Hierarchy of Beards.

My friend Stephen Miller is the worship leader at The Journey in St. Louis. His new worship album comes out tomorrow, and I hope you’ll pick it up via iTunes or Amazon (links forthcoming). I’ve been listening to, and enjoying, “God and Sinner Reconcile”, for a few weeks now. It’s a gospel-driven, modern worship album that deserves your attention.

You can visit Stephen’s website for more details, or hit him up via Twitter. Oh, and his band is playing on the Fox Morning Show in St. Louis tomorrow. Be sure to pray for the band as they herald the good news to a very broad audience.

Back in July I started growing a beard, so I’m about six months in and aim aiming for something of Knoxian proportions. So far the wife is cool with it, which is more important than my interest in pogonotrophy. I recently came across this poster and thought it was pretty great (see a larger version here).