Fall 2018

Homiletics

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This course is open to all who desire to grow or practice their skills in preaching.

Crafting authentic sermons arises from the preacher's relationship with God. Using Lectio Divina as a prayerful means of sermon preparation, we'll explore Lectio (prayerful, literal reading); Meditatio (studying the scriptures and their meaning with the intersection of the congregation); and Oratio (writing and offering the sermon).  Through this lens of Lectio Divina, we'll explore the "what, why, and how" of "effective" sermons. The "what" is a clear message that is relevant to the Listeners and invites transformation. The "why" is its authenticity. And the "how" is keeping the Listener's attention in a way that can be followed from beginning to end. To see the process unfold, we'll use mind mapping to capture and connect this prayerful and creative approach of sermon crafting.

In this course, students will:

• Practice a prayer-based approach to sermon preparation
  
• Practice the fundamental skills needed to craft effective sermons
  
• Give and receive feedback on preaching
  
• Connect to resources and practices for further growth as a preacher
  

Online: August 6 – September 24, 2016

In Person: September 8, Collegeville, MN

Instructor: Lisa Cressman

Required materials: A Bible and a computer