This is a textbook on preaching from an ecumenical perspective, covering the foundations and practice of preaching. In our rapidly changing world, Christian preaching is as important as ever, but makes even greater demands of the preacher than in the past. It is being challenged by new forms of worship and communication at a time when it is becoming more difficult for preachers to address the complex issues of modern life in relation to Christianity. This book is designed to help preachers to sustain themselves and each other in their work and to realize their full potential by helping them to re-affirm the importance of preaching by rehearsing its biblical and theological basis and to understand the cycles, dynamics and rhythms of their vocation and to engage with them constructively. It offers clear guidelines on how to construct a sermon and use contemporary professional support services throughout their preaching ministry and to develop their own support networks. So the book emphasizes what preachers themselves, personally and through supportive networks, can do to sustain and develop their preaching ministries.

Preaching may be a more counter-cultural activity than earlier generations found it; but it's all the more important to do it well and imaginatively. Here, in an attractive and accessible blend of theology and reflection on patterns of learning, we have a guide to the main issues that will be welcome to those in all denominations who are working to find effective ways - to borrow John Wesley's phrase - of 'offering Christ' to the people. -- Archbishop Rowan Williams
This is a page turner - sweeping us along with its energy, uncovering one layer after another, introducing us to one facet of truth after another. Yet it also stands as a work of reference, a text book, a vade mecum. Two seasoned preachers have laid bare their art and we can all feel inspired, encouraged, goaded, challenged by t heir work. -- The Rev the Lord Griffiths of Burry Port, Superintendent Minister of Wesley's Chapel in London.
‘The book does go someway to replace the writing of Philips Brooks - and not before time!'
‘Its [the book's] style is didactic and authoritative... there is much here to learn and much that could apply to less conventional settings that those envisaged by the authors.' -- Methodist Recorder
The book... will be useful for those who teach preachers and those responsible for providing refresher courses. -- Theology Vol. 115 (No.1)

Dr Neil G. Richardson was Tutor in New Testament Studies and later Principal of Wesley College, Bristol. He served as President of the British Methodist Conference in 2003-2004. George Lovell is a Methodist minister and consultant in the field of ministry and mission. He has published widely and was awarded a Lambeth Palace DD by the Archbishop of Canterbury in 2006.