Lay Preaching - Coming Soon

Building Confidence and Capacity as a Lay Preacher

English ‎(en)‎



This course equips you to preach with confidence and impact. Ideal for lay leaders, you'll learn to deliver compelling sermons that resonate with your congregation. From interpreting scripture to developing your message and honing your delivery, the Lay Preaching Course offers practical guidance, theological insights, and hands-on exercises. Whether you aim to deepen your faith or meet a need in your church, this course provides a path to becoming a more effective preacher.


Learning Outcomes:

After completing this workshop, participants will 
  1. Begin developing skills and practices to interpret and analyze biblical texts accurately and thoughtfully
  2. Learn to create structured, engaging, and theologically sound sermons.
  3. Enhance public speaking skills to deliver sermons with clarity and confidence.
  4. Understand techniques to connect with and engage your congregation effectively.
  5. Gain deeper insights into theological concepts to enrich your preaching.
  6. pply biblical principles to contemporary issues in a way that is relevant and impactful for the audience.
  7. Experience personal spiritual growth and development through the practice of preaching.

About Rev. Dr. Sarah Travis


Rev. Dr. Sarah Travis headshot.

Sarah Travis is the Associate Professor, Ewart Chair in the Practice of Ministry and Faith Formation at Knox College and has been teaching at Knox since 2012.

Sarah is an ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church in Canada, and currently serves as part-time minister at Norval Presbyterian Church. Her primary areas of research and teaching are preaching, worship and the practice of ministry. From decolonizing worship practices to trauma-informed preaching, Sarah has published several books aimed at facilitating a conversation among Christians about topics that matter for the church today. She is a 2023 Calvin Institute of Christian Worship Teacher-Scholar Grant recipient, exploring how playful theologies can enhance the worship and self-identity of very small congregations.


About Ministry Forum


Ministry Forum is a space where faith, community, and leadership converge. We are a vibrant and inclusive online platform hosted by Knox College, University of Toronto, dedicated to serving current and aspiring Christian ministry leaders. Our community is as diverse as the ministries we represent, encompassing students, alumni, pastors, psychotherapists, chaplains, and those passionate about spreading the Good News in whatever ministry context they find themselves.

Our identity is rooted in the belief that ministry is not a solitary journey; it's a collective effort. We are a fellowship that values authenticity, fosters connections, and celebrates diversity. Here, you'll find a safe space to explore, share, and grow in your faith, leadership, and ministry.

Our mission is to empower ministry leaders to thrive. We do this by curating valuable resources, facilitating thought-provoking discussions, and offering spaces to gather both online and in person. Through recommended reading, podcasts, the curation of lifelong learning opportunities, and much more, we hope to provide our community with a wealth of insights to enhance their ministry.