Sermon Preparation (LW 554)

Prerequesites

Successful completion of LW 550, IF 552, & IS 560

Date

Tuesday, January 14th – Thursday, January 16th

Credit

2.0

Block

2

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Course Description

This course will introduce students to the basic content, elements, methods, and forms of preaching, with the goal of moving from biblical exegesis to theological public proclamation. Students will learn how to write Central Question, Central Claim, and Central Purpose statements to guide their sermon process. We will also attend to the performance of preaching, including the use of one’s body, presence, and voice in order to deliver effective, engaging, and inspiring sermons.

Professor

Suzanne Wenonah Duchesne

Contingent Faculty

Education

Ph.D. Liturgical Studies with Concentration in Women’s Studies from Drew University Theological School

M.Phi.l in Liturgical Studies from Drew University Theological School

Master of Divinity from Palmer Theological Seminary

Bachelor of Science in Life Science from Rowan University

 

Bio

Additional information can be read by clicking HERE.

Course Information

Course Goals & Learning Outcomes
  1. Intellectual: (1) Students will critically listen to and evaluate sermons. (2) Students will demonstrate their knowledge of basic terms, concepts, and vocabulary
    related to the task of preaching. (3) Students will write Central Question, Central Claim, and Central Purpose statements to guide their sermon process.
  2. Practical: (1) Students will write and preach a sermon manuscript that demonstrates competence with interpreting a scriptural passage and making a theological claim for preaching in a particular time and ministry context. (2) Students will demonstrate beginning competence with using the Four Pages form for the sermon. (3) Students will demonstrate developing skills in the incarnational and performative aspect of preaching, including the use of body, voice, and presence within the preaching event to effectively engage the listeners.
  3. Spiritual: (1) Students will preach a homily that reflects how they understand their own call to preach. (2) Students will prayerfully consider how the process of reading scripture, interpreting faith, and writing and preaching a sermon informs and shapes their own faith and relationship with the Triune God as well as with the congregation. (3) Students will cultivate collegiality with their peer group and the instructor around the task of preaching in a way that provides both spiritual support and appreciative challenge.
Required Textbooks

Introduction to Preaching: Scripture, Theology, and Sermon Preparation co-written by Leah D. Schade, Jerry Sumney, and Emily Askew

Here’s the link: https://rowman.com/ISBN/9781538138595/Introduction-to-Preaching-Scripture-Theology-and-Sermon-Preparation

Is there pre-course work?
Yes. Before you arrive on campus for your time in class, you must complete the pre-class assignments consisting of reading, writing, and lectures. The written assignments must be submitted prior to our first class meeting so that we may discuss them.
What technology is required?
Students should bring with them their laptops, tablets, or device with which they use to access the course materials and complete assignments.
What will I need to bring to class?
Laptop, notebook, pens/pencils, jacket or blanket, water bottle, assistive devices, etc. Any assignments or other needed materials will be listed in the course syllabus via Canvas.
Should I bring snacks?
You are welcome to bring snacks or drinks. LTS is equipped with a water filter for refilling water bottles and will have coffee and tea available, as well as an assortment of snacks. If you have a food allergy or sensitivity, please reach out to the Dean’s Office prior to your arrival.
What do I do if I can't join physically?
LTS does offer hybrid intensives options at the discretion of the Dean and course professor. Please contact the Dean’s Office prior to registering for courses to make your hybrid course request.

Other Intensives Course Offerings

LC Block: Creating a Congregational Culture of Care (LC 550) and Diagnosis and Referral (LC 552) and The Art of Visitation (LC 554)
Holy Spirit: Beyond Santa and Star Wars (IF 675/875)
Building Cultural Frameworks for the Contemporary Contexts (DM 812)
Exegesis for the Church (IS 560)
Reimagining Religion and Mission (LM 679/879)
The Bible and Public Policy (IS 625/825)
Building Congregational/Ministerial Frameworks for the Contemporary Contexts (DM 813)
IF Block: Who Do We Say That I Am: Christology (IF 556) & God Save Us: Soteriology (IF 558)

Questions about registering?

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