Event

Serving the Word

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Preaching is a matter of serving the Word. It’s holy work, but it’s not wholly work. Serving the Word, being its servant, doing what it calls us to do, is truly work, hard work. But serving the Word to a community, like serving a meal to a hungry crowd, is also a joy.

Serving the Word is a four-session series on preaching intended to help people acknowledge the significant work that preaching entails while inviting them to experience the joy that preaching can inspire. The series is for those new to the practice of preaching and for experienced preachers looking for new insights. Sessions will focus on exploring the Word, living with the Word, preparing for the Word, and proclaiming the Word. Participants, particularly those new to preaching, are invited (but not required) to read Karoline M. Lewis’s A Lay Preacher’s Guide as a companion to the series.

Format and Schedule

  • Format: Online via Zoom
  • Dates: Mondays, October 5, 12, 19, and 26, 2026
  • Time: 7:00–9:00 p.m. Central (6:00–8:00 p.m. Mountain)
  • Number of Sessions: 4
  • Registration Deadline: October 4, 2026

Each session will engage a distinct dimension of preaching:

  • Exploring the Word
  • Living with the Word
  • Preparing for the Word
  • Proclaiming the Word

Participants will be invited to reflect, discuss, and, as they are comfortable, practice proclamation in a supportive environment.

Cost

  • Standard registration: $25
  • PMA credit registration: $55 (includes PMA credit)

Facilitator

Pastor Brian Maas will lead this four-session series. Drawing on years of experience in preaching and pastoral ministry, Pastor Maas will guide participants in both the craft and the calling of preaching, helping new preachers gain competence and confidence, and inviting seasoned preachers to discover fresh inspiration and renewed joy in their proclamation.

Who Should Attend

This series is open to everyone, especially:

  • Lay people who are new to preaching or considering a preaching role
  • Lay preachers already serving in congregations
  • Rostered ministers seeking renewed energy and insight for preaching
  • Anyone curious about how the Word is explored, lived, prepared, and proclaimed in the life of the church

Whether you are just beginning to wonder if you might preach, or you have been preaching for years, you are welcome.

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