Hi Casey,

Do you ever wonder if your sermons are really connecting? If what you think you're communicating is what people are actually hearing?

You're not alone. As a preacher myself, I know how challenging it can be to gauge whether our messages are truly reaching people—especially when the only feedback we get is a quick "good sermon" at the door.

But here's what I've learned: the best way to find out if your sermons are resonating…is to ask your congregation what they’re hearing!

Yeah, it sounds terrifying. 

But that's why I'm so excited to share our latest Pivot Podcast episode featuring Dr. Dee Stokes and the Rev. Dr. Adam White, who are leading a groundbreaking project called "And How Will They Hear?" 

Through their research with preachers across denominations, they've discovered that the most compelling sermons aren't necessarily the most polished, but the ones where the preachers have learned to listen deeply to both God and their congregations.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Why traditional feedback questions like "did you enjoy the sermon?" or “how was the delivery?” aren't helpful—and what to ask instead.
• The two factors that consistently make preaching compelling (hint: it's not what most seminaries teach).
• How creating listening spaces in your congregation can transform both your preaching and your people's spiritual formation.
• Why vulnerability in preaching matters more than ever (and how to do it without making it all about you).
• Practical tools for gathering and using feedback that will deepen your preaching impact.

If you're ready to move beyond just trying to fix your preaching to paying attention to what your congregation is actually hearing, don't miss this conversation.

Peace,

The Rev. Katie Langston
Director of Digital Strategy

Faith+Lead

Did someone forward this email to you? Consider getting these updates on what's new and upcoming at Faith+Lead delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up here.