Institute of Preaching

The Institute of Preaching is a 10-month program of three retreats designed to help clergy from two United Methodist conferences, the Florida Annual Conference and the Western North Carolina Annual Conference, improve their preaching.

Unlike other programs that focus only on style or techniques, the Institute of Preaching takes a comprehensive approach to preaching. Pastors examine not only their sermon content and delivery but also the contexts in which they preach and the integrity of their life and work.

During each retreat, participants hear from recognized authorities on preaching – both practitioners and Duke faculty -- and also work with other participants in small peer groups, discussing their ministries and reviewing each other’s sermons. Between retreats, participants are encouraged to work with a small group from their own congregation to receive critical and constructive sermon feedback.

The Institute of Preaching is a partnership between the Florida Institute of Preaching Committee and Duke Divinity School. It is sponsored by the Florida Annual Conference and the Parish Ministry Fund of the Western North Carolina Annual Conference. All full-time elders and local pastors serving in either the Florida or the Western North Carolina Annual Conference are eligible to apply for the Institute.