College of Preaching » Preaching ExcellenceHow Did It Start? The St Clement’s College of Preaching was initiated by the parish at the time of its 1991 centennial. Looking back on 100 years of Christian life in this community and forward to our second century of service, we realized how blessed we had been with a succession of rectors with strong preaching skills. We wanted to help other parishes enjoy such gifts. Priests from across the country who have attended the ten Colleges held so far continue to be grateful to those who initiated this program. What Exactly Does It Do? The College gives 30 priests from across Canada the opportunity to spend three full days in a residential setting, mastering the art of preaching. When Does It Happen & Who Is Invited? The College is offered every two years for 15 priests (with at least five years preaching experience) nominated by the Diocese of Toronto bishops, and for five 5 priests nominated from each of three other dioceses specifically selected for that particular College. Instruction is provided by outstanding homilists from Canada or the US. The 2009 College was held from Nov 2–5 at Queen of Apostles Renewal Centre, Mississauga. Priests have been invited from the dioceses of Toronto, Saskatoon and Huron, together with five military chaplains. Those participating were very enthusiastic about the opportunity they had been given. How Is It Financed? The College is primarily financed through the interest from a fund set aside by the parish. Additional grants come from the Garnsworthy Trust Fund of The Anglican Foundation and participating dioceses. How Much Do Participants Pay? Each priest is asked to pay $350 (usually taken from their Professional Development Fund) towards the costs of travel, food, accommodation and leadership.All expenses incurred for travel are refunded. Who Led The 2009 College?
The 2009 College was led by The Rev. Dr Lillian Daniel, who is Senior Minister at First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. She has taught preaching at Yale Divinity School and Chicago Theological Seminary and has written two books, both of which are available in the Parish Library. One, recently co-authored with Martin Copenhaver, is about the joys and challenges of being clergy: “This Odd and Wondrous Calling: the Public and Private Lives of Two Ministers” The other, reflecting her topic, is called “Tell it Like it is: Reclaiming the Practice of Testimony”.
The 2011 College The Rev. Dr. Lillian Daniel has agreed to lead the College again in 2011. Further planning for the 2011 College is now taking place. Committee members are Gary Shaw, Brad Faught, Robin Harmer and Joyce Henry. Updated April, 2010 |
