Robert Smith Jr. Preaching Institute Extends Reach

Robert Smith Jr. Preaching Institute Extends Reach, Plans First Conference NEWS

Beeson Divinity's Robert Smith Jr.

Preaching Institute, supported by a generous grant from the Lilly Endowment Inc., extended its reach in 2019-20 by establishing four new preaching peer groups in the Southeast and adding extracurricular preaching opportunities for Beeson students. Beeson students were invited to preach and receive feedback, advice and encouragement from Michael Pasquarello III, director of the Preaching Institute, and local pastors in fall 2019 and spring 2020. Students also continue to receive four opportunities a semester to learn from Beeson faculty and seasoned pastors on how to prepare a sermon in the Text to Sermon events. These events are well-attended by students as well as alumni and area pastors. M.Div. student Thomas George took part in the extra opportunity to preach and receive feedback this year. “It was a gift to have our Beeson professors and local pastors go the extra mile to invest in our calling,” he said. “Providing this opportunity to grow as preachers outside of the required preaching class was a tremendous blessing.” Peer groups, made up of pastors, meet monthly, typically sharing a meal together and seeking to grow in the vocation of preaching by focusing on learning, devotion and practice. These peer groups are a central part of the institute’s mission to

strengthen preachers and preaching. In addition to peer groups, the institute continued to off er events for area pastors for preaching development. This year the institute hosted a Day With a Beeson Author event featuring Old Testament professor Mark Gignilliat (fall 2019). In Oct. 2021, the institute will co-host a conference with Samford’s Center for Worship and the Arts called, “The Beauty of God: Preaching, Worship, and the Arts.” This conference is meant to enrich and inspire pastors, worship leaders, musicians and other ministry leaders in their local parish ministry. Speakers include Matt Papa, John Witvliet, Marilyn McEntyre, Robert Smith Jr. and several others. More information will be given in spring 2021. "In a time when many say preaching has declined in its signifi cance and credibility, we continue to see a genuine desire among both pastors and students for quality events that will increase one's knowledge, devotion and competence as a preacher,” Pasquarello said. D

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Piotr Małysz