About this ebook
A Way with Words demonstrates the power of the weekly sermon to change the culture of a congregation. Using the analogy of language learning, Adam Trambley shows how a consistent ministry focus over an eighteen-month period can help a church address areas that inhibit growth even as the pastor preaches on a diversity of subjects or uses a lectionary. The author explores how important focused preaching can be to moving church development forward and offers a long-term strategy particularly helpful for pastors looking to take full advantage of the opportunities their weekly sermons provide. Each chapter includes discussion questions and practical exercises that can be used as part of a preaching group or seminary class, or to aid the solo pastor in preparing dynamic sermons.
This is a topic not generally taught in seminary, but vital for pastors who wear many hats as preachers, pastoral caregivers, and administrative leaders.
About the author
ADAM T. TRAMBLEY has been a solo pastor in two traditional Episcopal churches for a total of 15 years. In both churches, he successfully used focused preaching to deal with particular congregational issues. He has also led strategic planning processes for his parishes and diocese. He blogs at The Black Giraffe (adamtrambley.blogspot.com) and has written articles for a number of local and national publications. He holds a Doctor of Ministry from Virginia Theological Seminary.
The Rt. Rev. Sean Rowe was ordained bishop of the Diocese of Northwestern Pennsylvania in 2007 and became bishop provisional of Western New York in 2019. He previously served as bishop provisional of the Diocese of Bethlehem from 2014 until 2018. Rowe is known for his research and work on organizational learning and adaptive performance in the church. He serves as parliamentarian for the House of Bishops, chair of the Episcopal Church Building Fund, and vice chair of the Standing Commission on Structure, Governance, and Constitution and Canons. He also serves on the House of Deputies Committee on the State of the Church. He lives in Erie, PA.
