Improving Your Preaching: Concrete Imagery In Preaching
We live and experience the world primarily through vision. Jesus’ parables, the Gospels and most of Scripture is filled with rich, powerful images. Icons are powerful precisely because they allow us to see and perceive God’s presence in the Saints. This course explores the power of imagery in the oral language of preaching; and offers preachers concrete strategies for using concrete imagery to enhance and strengthen their preaching.
What You’ll Learn
By the end of the course, you will be able to:
Explain the difference between Concrete and Abstract Imagery and articulate why Concrete Imagery is a useful homiletical element.
Apply practical strategies to strengthen their homilies by using Concrete Imagery in a clear and structured way.
Evaluate homiletical language, and formulate imagery to engage their audience
Meet Your Instructor
V. Rev. J. Sergius Halvorsen PhD
Assistant Professor, Homiletics and Rhetoric
J. Sergius Halvorsen has taught at St Vladimir's Seminary since 2011 where he also serves as director of the Doctor of Ministry Program. In addition to teaching homiletics and rhetoric, he also teaches courses in Christian education and the sacred art of narrative. He is a priest of the Orthodox Church in America, and is attached to Holy Transfiguration Church in New Haven, CT. He is an accomplished liturgical musician and has contributed to a number of "Archangel Voices" recordings. He lives in New Haven, CT.
Course Format & Schedule
Live Zoom Sessions:
__days, __ p.m. ET
Dates:
__ – __
Access Period:
__ – __
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Tuition & Registration
Course Fee: $200
Refund Policy: No refunds after __
To participate, you’ll need to create a username and password during registration. All course materials and recordings will remain available through December 31.
What’s Included
4 live discussion sessions (~45 min each)
4 pre-recorded lectures
4 slide presentations to accompany each lecture
Optional reading material
Access to session recordings and all course materials from __ to __
You may submit questions ahead of time for each live Zoom discussion with your professor.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. This is a non-credit, non-transferable enrichment course designed for personal spiritual and theological growth.
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No. While the course is grounded in the Orthodox tradition, it welcomes students of all Christian backgrounds and those exploring Orthodoxy.
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No problem. All live Zoom discussions will be recorded and available to watch anytime during the access period.
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After registering, you’ll use the login credentials you created to access the course platform. All content will be available starting October 21.
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No, readings are optional and provided for those who want to explore topics more deeply.
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Not at this time. This course is for personal enrichment and does not offer a certificate of completion.