The Institute for Homiletics team recently had the privilege of attending the Compelling Preaching Initiative Annual Gathering in Indianapolis. This gathering brought together leaders from across the country who share a common mission. Each of these leaders is working to renew the art of preaching so that the Gospel may be proclaimed in more engaging and effective ways.
Supported by the Lilly Endowment’s Compelling Preaching Initiative, this annual gathering offers a unique space for collaboration, prayer, and learning. Participants represent a wide range of Christian traditions.
The days were rich with opportunity. Plenary sessions blended ecumenical worship with thoughtful presentations and lively discussion. We reflected together on how God is at work through this initiative and shared the challenges and graces that come with forming preachers for today’s diverse communities. Interactive elements, including live polling, fostered a spirit of active engagement.
Breakout sessions and panel discussions offered further insight into the research and emerging practices in preaching. These moments were not only informative but deeply encouraging as we recognized our shared commitment to reach the hearts of God’s people.
For the Institute for Homiletics team, the gathering was also a time of meaningful connection with fellow Catholic grantees. Celebrating Mass together on the Feast of the Annunciation of the Lord gave us a powerful reminder of our shared call to proclaim Christ with humility and courage.
Dr. Karla Bellinger was invited to contribute to a plenary panel (shown above), “Learning Reimagined: Pedagogies of Preaching for a Changing World.” She shared insights into the Institute’s distinctive approach to forming preachers with a deep spiritual attentiveness and a commitment to encounter.
We return from this gathering filled with gratitude and renewed hope. It is a blessing to witness the many ways the Holy Spirit is moving through this initiative, and to celebrate the fruits already emerging from this work. We remain committed to our mission of renewing liturgical preaching, especially in ways that speak to and inspire young Catholics, trusting that God will continue to guide and sustain this important work.