A compelling panel discussion on “The Art of Preaching” was held in Amityville, NY, bringing together a distinguished group of religious leaders to explore the nuances of sermon delivery and its impact on faith communities. The event featured MANA President Bishop Andy C. Lewter, Overseer Regina Ravenell-Carr of Copiague, Overseer Diane Seaman from Port Jefferson, Bishop Jeffrey Bowman of Buffalo, Dr. Joseph Covington of Albany, and Dr. Stephanie Stratford from Washington, DC.

The panel discussion was a thoughtful response to sermon excerpts from three influential pastors: Dr. Sandy F. Ray, Dr. Gardner C. Taylor, and Bishop F. D. Washington. Each of these pastors has left a profound legacy in the realm of preaching and has significantly influenced contemporary sermon styles.

Dr. Sandy F. Ray pastored the Cornerstone Baptist Church of Brooklyn, NY, from 1939 to 1980. Known for his deep, resonant voice and compelling delivery, Dr. Ray’s sermons were characterized by their powerful theological insights and a strong emphasis on social justice. His preaching often addressed the pressing issues of his time, combining a profound understanding of Scripture with a passionate call for community engagement and reform.

Dr. Gardner C. Taylor, who led the Concord Baptist Church of Brooklyn, NY, was renowned as one of the most eloquent preachers of the 20th century. The Concord Baptist Church, the oldest African American Baptist congregation in Brooklyn, benefited from Dr. Taylor’s masterful oratory skills and his ability to weave narrative, scripture, and contemporary issues into his sermons. His preaching style was noted for its intellectual depth and emotional resonance, making his messages both intellectually stimulating and spiritually uplifting.

Bishop F. D. Washington of Washington Temple Church of God in Christ in Brooklyn, NY, was known for his dynamic preaching and innovative approaches to worship. Bishop Washington’s sermons were marked by their energetic delivery and emphasis on the transformative power of faith. His ability to connect with congregants on a personal level while addressing broader themes of spiritual growth and community development made his preaching both accessible and impactful.

During the panel discussion, each member of the panel offered their insights on the sermonic styles of these revered pastors, reflecting on how their methods can inform contemporary preaching practices. Bishop Andy C. Lewter, with his vast experience as a church leader and theologian, provided a framework for understanding the evolution of preaching styles. Overseer Regina Ravenell-Carr and Overseer Diane Seaman contributed perspectives on how these historical approaches can be integrated into modern sermons. Bishop Jeffrey Bowman, Dr. Joseph Covington, and Dr. Stephanie Stratford shared their analyses of the emotional and intellectual elements that make effective preaching.

The panel discussion not only honored the legacy of these influential preachers but also provided valuable lessons for current and future sermonizers. By examining the historical context and stylistic elements of their preaching, the discussion underscored the ongoing relevance of these methods in today’s diverse faith landscape.

This event, rich with theological discourse and historical reflection, highlighted the enduring art of preaching and its capacity to inspire, challenge, and transform faith communities.