Prepping with the Pastor

Have you ever wondered how a sermon comes together?

Maybe you’ve listened on Sunday morning and thought, “That really spoke to something I’ve been feeling,” or maybe, “I wish that had gone a little deeper into the part that confused me.” That kind of wondering is exactly why we’re starting Prepping with the Pastor.

It’s not a class. It’s not a lecture. It’s more like a conversation over coffee—with scripture open between us.

Each Tuesday morning, a small group gathers to read the passage that will shape the upcoming Sunday’s sermon. We read it slowly, out loud. We sit with it. We listen for what stands out—what raises a question, what feels familiar, what makes us curious or uncomfortable.

There’s no workbook, no homework, and no expectation that you’ve read anything ahead of time. This isn’t about what the experts say. I’ve got shelves of commentaries for that. What I don’t have—what I can’t get from a book—is you. I want to know how the passage lands in real life. In your life.

We’re using a process that’s loosely inspired by something called lectio divina—a centuries-old practice of reading scripture slowly and reflectively, listening for the Spirit in the pauses and the questions.

This time together isn’t just about building a better sermon. It’s about building a community that listens for God together. Some people talk a lot. Some listen more than they speak. All are welcome.

We meet Tuesday mornings at 9:00 in the Lounge. Come once. Come every week. Just come curious. We’ll make room for you.

Blessings!
Rev. Carnes