Ways To Learn about Sermon Topics A head of Sunday

Our pastors usually decide on a series together, and then deside which of the pastors take what parts of the topic (and biblical references.) I suspect one could ask the minister to include you in his/her plan.

Years ago, my dad, a Baptist, but Ecumenical church planter, would spend his summer vacation, planning what he would do for sermons in the fall and winter, and write notes on cards. Interestingly, we were able to retrieve these cards from our family cottage, where he spent the vacation, and pass them along to my son, who is now doing pastoring at a church.

It might be possible to ask and get any pre-plans on sermons, or discuss topics.

One of the web sites I've used in the past to check on subjects and such are listed here under "Web sites for Pastoral and Ministerial Research" here: https://trescottresearch.com/page5.html

Here's what Microsoft Copilot suggests:

How do church and parish librarians find out the sermon topics being planned by their pastors?

Church and parish librarians often collaborate closely with their pastors to align library resources with upcoming sermon topics. Here are some common approaches:

Direct Communication: Librarians may have regular meetings with pastors to discuss sermon series or themes. This allows them to prepare relevant materials in advance.
Church Calendars or Bulletins: Many churches publish sermon schedules or themes in their bulletins, newsletters, or online platforms. Librarians can use these as a guide.
Staff Meetings: In some churches, librarians are part of staff meetings where sermon planning is discussed, giving them insight into upcoming topics.
Observation and Initiative: Librarians might observe recurring themes in sermons or small group studies and proactively stock resources that align with those topics.
Feedback from Congregation: Sometimes, librarians gather feedback from church members about their needs or interests, which can indirectly reflect sermon themes.

Here are some ways to enhance a church library's support for sermons:

Curate Resources: Build collections based on sermon topics, such as Bible commentaries, Christian living books, or devotional guides. Display these resources prominently for easy access.
Collaborate with Pastors: Meet regularly with pastors to learn about their sermon plans and suggest library materials that could enhance their messages.
Create Sermon Resource Guides: Develop handouts or digital lists of books, articles, or other media that expand on sermon themes. Share these guides through bulletins, emails, or the church website.
Offer Study Materials: Stock Bible study kits, discussion guides, and small group resources that tie into sermon topics. These can support small group leaders and individual learners.
Promote Online Resources: Highlight eBooks, podcasts, or online articles related to sermons. This can broaden the library's reach and appeal to tech-savvy members.
Engage Congregation: Ask church members for input on what materials they find helpful or inspiring. This feedback can guide the library's acquisitions.
Host Events: Organize workshops, book talks, or discussion groups that dive deeper into sermon themes, encouraging community engagement.

I'm so glad you think so! If you ever want more tailored suggestions or creative ideas for your library, feel free to ask. Church libraries can be such a powerful resource for learning, connection, and spiritual growth—I think you're doing amazing work. 😊

Microsoft Copilot

Do you wonder about some of these AI suggestions for librarians? Any of these suggestions work for you? Morlee

Replies

Paul T. Jackson April 28, 2025 16:48

Our pastors usually decide on a series together, and then deside which of the pastors take what parts of the topic (and biblical references.) I suspect one could ask the minister to include you in his/her plan.

Years ago, my dad, a Baptist, but Ecumenical church planter, would spend his summer vacation, planning what he would do for sermons in the fall and winter, and write notes on cards. Interestingly, we were able to retrieve these cards from our family cottage, where he spent the vacation, and pass them along to my son, who is now doing pastoring at a church.

It might be possible to ask and get any pre-plans on sermons, or discuss topics.

One of the web sites I've used in the past to check on subjects and such are listed here under "Web sites for Pastoral and Ministerial Research" here: https://trescottresearch.com/page5.html

Trescott Files Bibliographic Guides no. 14 Doctor of Ministry Project Resources
Morlee Maynard April 28, 2025 10:59
Here's what Microsoft Copilot suggests:
How do church and parish librarians find out the sermon topics being planned by their pastors?

Church and parish librarians often collaborate closely with their pastors to align library resources with upcoming sermon topics. Here are some common approaches:

Direct Communication: Librarians may have regular meetings with pastors to discuss sermon series or themes. This allows them to prepare relevant materials in advance.

Church Calendars or Bulletins: Many churches publish sermon schedules or themes in their bulletins, newsletters, or online platforms. Librarians can use these as a guide.

Staff Meetings: In some churches, librarians are part of staff meetings where sermon planning is discussed, giving them insight into upcoming topics.

Observation and Initiative: Librarians might observe recurring themes in sermons or small group studies and proactively stock resources that align with those topics.

Feedback from Congregation: Sometimes, librarians gather feedback from church members about their needs or interests, which can indirectly reflect sermon themes.

Here are some ways to enhance a church library's support for sermons:

Curate Resources: Build collections based on sermon topics, such as Bible commentaries, Christian living books, or devotional guides. Display these resources prominently for easy access.

Collaborate with Pastors: Meet regularly with pastors to learn about their sermon plans and suggest library materials that could enhance their messages.

Create Sermon Resource Guides: Develop handouts or digital lists of books, articles, or other media that expand on sermon themes. Share these guides through bulletins, emails, or the church website.

Offer Study Materials: Stock Bible study kits, discussion guides, and small group resources that tie into sermon topics. These can support small group leaders and individual learners.

Promote Online Resources: Highlight eBooks, podcasts, or online articles related to sermons. This can broaden the library's reach and appeal to tech-savvy members.

Engage Congregation: Ask church members for input on what materials they find helpful or inspiring. This feedback can guide the library's acquisitions.

Host Events: Organize workshops, book talks, or discussion groups that dive deeper into sermon themes, encouraging community engagement.

I'm so glad you think so! If you ever want more tailored suggestions or creative ideas for your library, feel free to ask. Church libraries can be such a powerful resource for learning, connection, and spiritual growth—I think you're doing amazing work. 😊
Microsoft Copilot

Do you wonder about some of these AI suggestions for librarians? Any of these suggestions work for you? Morlee

This reply was deleted.