In order to be effective, the Lay Preacher needs to be prepared. Faith Formation classes, readings, videos, lectures, etc, are some of the plethora of ways to learn about the faith. It is a constant education—a lifelong occupation.
Along with
learning the faith, one must prepare to speak.
Even if you preach through art or music or something else not involving
talk, you will be asked to talk, someday.
You will be invited to speak at book stores, women clubs, senior
centers, breakfasts, funerals, etc, about your work. So
start preparing. I suggest you take a
public speaking course at a local college, or join Toastmasters, and watch
videos. Get used to speaking. Become a
Lector in your parish; this definitely will get you used to speaking to a
crowd. Even if you never have the
occasion to speak in public, you will benefit from the public speaking training
you have received.
For example,
one of the most sought after programs for prison inmates is Toastmasters. When I learned of this, I was first
puzzled. What a waste? I thought.
But think again. Who needs to
present themselves as the best version of themselves? Speaking is presenting yourself. Things like, posture, clothing, grooming,
voice, pronunciation, and articulation, can influence a parole board, just as much
as those things influence you and me.
Besides, preparation and presentation, there is something very important that distinguishes a preacher from a teacher. The secret is your spirit. Your work, whether it is music, art, or speech, must come from your heart. Teachers impart information. Preachers speak heart to heart. Your work must show the flame of the Order of Preachers' charism.
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