Do You Preach?

This past week we had our annual Priest Assembly.  The best part was a panel discussion on preaching.  Four guys, from various backgrounds, offered their insights on preaching issues including: preparation, techniques, topics and audiences.  It was great.

Reflecting on that, I remember a saying often attributed to St. Francis of Assisi. Although the origin of the saying is unclear, it is a sermon in itself.  The saying is: “Preach always…if necessary use words.” Just think about that for a moment.

Everyone who is reading this blog preaches sometimes.  Consider this: If you are a parent, don’t you preach to your kids?  Or if you have grandchildren, don’t you occasionally give them little sermons? If you’re a true friend, don’t you offer mini-homilies to a friend who needs encouragement or advice?

Name people who preach to you sometimes.  What did they say or do that helped you?  Name the last person to whom you preached. Did you use words and actions?

Lastly, if you had a chance to give a homily at church someday, what would you talk about? If you want to, please share your idea with me.  I’d love to hear it.