This week, I asked The Rev. Dr. Sarah Travis, Ewart Chair in the Practice of Ministry and Faith Formation to give us a teaser into our featured upcoming series - “Preaching Refresher” and here’s what she had to say:

“A novice preacher recently remarked to me that they would benefit from more preaching courses.

I responded, “So would I!”

As a professor of preaching, I am aware that there is more to learn about preaching sermons than one can learn in a lifetime. Preachers need ideas, resources, and support to preach a relevant and engaging word week after week. Reading books or watching YouTube videos about preaching is helpful, but preaching is an embodied exercise that invites person-to-person conversation. It is all about conversation – with God, with cultures, with the Bible, with scholarship and with the experience of the church – the preacher engages in conversation with all of these.

Conversation is a powerful tool for those who want to form (or reform) their preaching. The new Reforming Preaching initiative at Knox College is designed to support and equip lay and ordained, experienced and novice preachers. In conversation (in-person or online), we are brought together to learn from our peers and scholars about how to preach a word of grace is this messy complex world.  In conversation, we find our way to better preaching. 

You are invited to join us on May 8th from 3-4pm ET for an online, facilitated conversation about the tough parts of preaching in today’s world – including finding the energy and time to improve your sermons. This Part I of a 3-part series we’re calling a “Preaching Refresher,” designed for preachers who feeling deenergized or even exhausted. Come and be refreshed!” 

Session 1: Needs Assessment - Wednesday, May 8th at 3:00 p.m. ET

We want to listen to clergy who are experienced preachers. What supports and tools do you need to adapt your preaching to the current realities of church? Participants will engage in conversation with others in a facilitated conversation that will function as a 'needs assessment' and guide the development of future sessions. Participants will recognize their own stories reflected in the stories of others and will find encouragement and support.

Session 2: Helpful Resources (date to be determined)

Based on what we hear from participants in session 1, we will curate a list of classic and recent resources intended to refresh their preaching. Participants will also be invited to share their own favourite resources. Ministry Forum will share a bibliography following this event.

Session 3: Lecture/Conversation (date to be determined)

Based on what we hear from participants in the first two sessions, we will propose some ways forward based on the needs expressed. Lecture and conversation. Come away with some new ideas for preaching.