Saved by the bell: the power of monastic practices to rescue us from burnout (a guest post)
Willpower is far less effective when we’re tired and worn out. And right now, we’re emotionally and mentally exhausted. We literally don’t have the mental energy to make more decisions—even when they’re in our best interest. This is the role of practices: to take the activities that will nurture, strengthen, and renew us, and make them routine rather than a decision to make.
Panel Discussion: "Preaching in a Time of Pandemic" with Cressman, Gunn, Jefferson, and Wells
Wondering how to keep preaching into this strange new world? Hosted by Bexley-Seabury Seminary, The Consortium of Endowed Episcopal Parishes, and the Anglican Theological Review, and moderated by Micah Jackson, a panel of theologian-preachers discuss what it means to preach into a pandemic. Panelists include Scott Gunn, Mark Jefferson, Sam Wells, and Lisa Cressman.
Suggestions for Online Memorial Services Based on First-Hand Experience
Unimaginable just a few months ago, many preachers now find themselves in the position of holding online memorial services. As we wade into this unfamiliar territory, Sr. Miriam Elizabeth Bledsoe and Rev. Jim Said share their experience and suggestions based on the online service they held for Sr. Bledsoe’s mother, who passed in mid-March.
How to Craft an Online Memorial Service
In the absence of traditional funerals and memorial services, how can we help those in mourning grieve well? What kinds of meaningful rituals and ceremonies can we create in the absence of in-person gatherings?
Your Guide to Preaching Resources During the Pandemic
From information about the pandemic to preaching strategies to stories that will inspire and lift your listeners’ spirits—you’ll be able to return to this collection again and again in the coming weeks.
How to reach congregants who aren't online (+ a few best practices for serving those who are)
You’ve moved your services online and are finding your new rhythm. But how do you help those without the technology or tech savvy to participate in church from home?
Self-Guided Easter Retreat for Preachers
As you come down from the monumental work of offering not only Holy Week services, but Holy Week services in a format brand new to most, Backstory Preaching offers this self-guided, at-home retreat to renew your spirit. Download it free and allow God to minister to you as a beloved child of God who happens to lead other beloved children.
How to Craft an Easter Sermon that Speaks to the Truth of Our Current Circumstances
This short video demonstrates in real time a brainstorming process—utilizing story structure—to craft an Easter sermon that will resonate with our present reality. Blessings as you preach this holiest of weeks, Dear Preachers.
How to Preach into Grief
I never could have known this treatise on grief would be released in the midst of a pandemic. I could not have foreseen just how dramatically the ways of life we’ve always taken for granted would shift almost overnight. The lessons are keenly relevant to our new reality, and I want to share a few as you grapple with how to support not only your congregations but also your own spirit in the weeks and months to come.
Preaching Themes During COVID-19
Like you, I have a lot more questions than answers about life and faith as we figure out how to respond to this defining global moment. We will often need to preach out of our own questions and the ones our parishioners ask. Click to find a few possible preaching themes as we navigate this global crisis.